Culture in South Lakes

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor
Culture in South Lakes
Ben Nicholson's Cold Fell (1922) oil on canvas (part of Abbot Hall's collection). Image courtesy of Lakeland Arts.

16 March — 30 December 2023 Entrance is free

With a rich historic and cultural draw, it’s no secret that the South Lakes is one of the most inspiring places we’ve visited. With an arts scene as dramatic and exhilarating as the landscape it inhabits, the South Lakes has earned its stripes as a place where artistic pioneers, radical thinkers and world-renowned writers produce some of their most iconic works. There’s a fantastic amount going on in the region over the next few months too. We round up some of our favourite places to visit for culture in the South Lakes.

Beatrix Potter: Passions in Paint at the Armitt Museum is not to be missed. Bringing a fascinating blend of history, art and literature, this expanded exhibition offers a unique insight into Beatrix Potter’s life and work. With rarely-seen artwork alongside a number of archaeological works, the collection reveals Beatrix’s early interest in nature and the world around her. This perceptive exhibition portrays Beatrix, not only as a talented writer and illustrator, but also, as an influential figure and passionate conservationist.

Head from Ambleside to Brantwood, a historic house and centre for the arts on the shores of Coniston Water for a stunning exhibition of works by Déirdre Kelly. Tracery – Venice and the Lakes Interlaced is a collection of works connecting architecture, lacework and place, inspired by the hugely influential writer and artist John Ruskin, who famously resided at Brantwood. Over at Wordsworth Grasmere, we’re championing a playful and interesting new exhibition – To The Lakes! takes a look at tourism through the ages and is accompanied by an additional programme of events and activities.

Meanwhile, Emergence Dance are limbering up to perform their latest triple bill of dance at Brewery Arts; a highlight of the dance calendar – not to be missed. And lastly, we’re thrilled that Abbot Hall reopens on Saturday 20 May 2023 with a major solo exhibition by leading landscape artist Julie Brook.

Whether you’re travelling with friends or family, you’ll be spoilt for choice for cultural adventures in the South Lakes.

16 March — 30 December 2023 Entrance is free

Where to go near Culture in South Lakes

caprismcr - restaurant
City Centre
Restaurant
Capri’s Cucina Italiana

The King Street area isn’t short of popular Italian restaurants, but none strike quite the same note as Capri’s, where you’ll be greeted like family and served some of the most authentic Neapolitan food in Manchester.

The Feel Good Club exterior
Manchester
Event venue
Feel Good Club

Our flagship Feel Good Club in Manchester, open 7 days a week, providing a beautiful friendly environment for coffee, brunch, lunch, cocktails and beers with an amazing selection of non alcoholic beverages too.

Ancoats
Bar or Pub
Finders Keepers

Welcoming waterside bar in New Islington Marina, serving a wide array of carefully-curated cocktails.

City Centre
Restaurant
Climat

Highly-regarded wine-led, French-leaning wine bar and rooftop restaurant in the city centre.

Image licensed with iStock.
Stockport
Library
Stockport Central Library

Stockport Central Library is a Carnegie library, built 1913–15 in the Edwardian Baroque style. It continues to serve as Stockport’s largest library.

The Edge exterior
Wigan
Event venue
The Edge, Wigan

Opened in September 2017, The Edge Arena is Wigan’s performance, conference and event venue.

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