Culture Guides
Destination Guides
Seasonal Guides
Festival Guides
There are plenty of attractions in Cumbria and The Lake District, could there be a better place to spend a long weekend exploring? The fells and tarns that characterise the region’s unique landscape offer endless adventure, while its network of picturesque towns and villages provide the perfect way to while-away many a pleasant afternoon. It’s also home to Windermere, England’s largest and, arguably, finest lake.
What shouldn’t be overlooked, however, is just how much the area has to offer culturally, as well. Having inspired countless artists and writers over the centuries – from J.M.W Turner and William Wordsworth to Beatrix Potter and Kurt Schwitters, to name just a few – this rich and ongoing history is well celebrated throughout the Lake District’s many unusual galleries, museums and stately homes, which give those of nearby Manchester and Liverpool a run for their money.
Here, we’ve put together a handful of our absolute favourites.
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1. Blackwell, The Arts and Crafts House
Courtesy of Lakeland Arts -
2. Abbot Hall Art Gallery
Abbot Hall from across the River Kent. Photo © Tony West. -
3. Museum of Lakeland Life & Industry
Courtesy of Lakeland Arts -
4. Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories
Courtesy of Lakeland Arts -
5. Windermere Jetty Cafe
Visitor guides
Literary places in Cumbria
If it was good enough for Wordsworth and Wainwright, then Cumbria surely has much to offer the literature lover who strayed off the M6. From Kendal in the south to Carlisle in the north, we sniff out the best bookish shenanigans.
Music Venues in Cumbria
When the sun goes down and you’ve had your fair share of Cumbria’s great outdoors, head to the area’s music venues to catch folk and jazz sessions, as well as regular performances by touring musicians. We recommend some of our favourites.
Theatres in Cumbria
For striking performances in the truly beautiful setting of the Lake District – check out our pick of theatres in Cumbria.
Museums in Cumbria
Cumbria is studded with fantastic museums – read our picks of the best here.
Art Galleries in Cumbria
Ranging from impressive, nationally-significant collections in Grade listed buildings, to historic houses that now have a particular focus on local, contemporary artists, here’s our guide to Cumbria’s collection of art galleries.
