Right out on the windy west coast of Cumbria is The Beacon, which has provided a well-used museum service for local families and visitors since it reopened in purpose built gallery spaces in 1996. It draws on rich collections – fine and decorative arts, social history, archaeology and natural sciences – that tell the story of the area, in particular the maritime history of Whitehaven. The interpretation is lively, with lots of activities for children.
Steph Huang explores the ethics and history of food production in her exhibition ‘There is nothing old under the sun’ at Cross Lane Projects.
free entry
Experience the art of Abbot Hall in a hands on and creative way with their monthly Sketch and Stroll tours.
from £0.00
Lancaster Literature Festival, or Litfest to its friends, is rolling out its 46th programme, having created a variety of events for its audiences since 1978.
from £3.00
Step into the majestic Blackpool Tower Ballroom for an experience like no other. With stunning architecture, live music and treats galore, Afternoon Tea here is highly recommended.
from £60.00
Come face to face with SEA LIFE Blackpool’s hungriest resident. This unique experience gives you the chance to feed Phoenix the green sea turtle and learn about this endangered species.
from £75.00
This gut-punching tale – with themes of loyalty, migration and prejudice – still strike a chord with a contemporary audience. Check out this new large-scale production of Steinbeck’s iconic story.
from £15.00
‘Bees: A Story of Survival’ seamlessly marries art and science to tell the fascinating story of bees and their essential role in nature.
from £0.00
Launching her shiny new volume of selected poems in Liverpool, where much of it was dreamed up, Eleanor Rees will be reading live and also chatting about the production.
free entry
Lowes Court Gallery in Egremont aims to showcase the quality of traditional and contemporary Cumbrian craft, led by a membership of artists.
Florence Mine has been transformed into a centre for cultural activity, offering workshops, gallery space, cinema and music venue.
A cosy theatre, offering a diverse range of arts and entertainment, in an exceptional setting on the outskirts of Whitehaven.
Calling steam train enthusiasts big and small! The Ravenglass & Eskdale heritage train is ready to transport you back in time.
The Muncaster Castle estate takes in a haunted castle, bluebell woods, Hawk and Owl Centre and more.
An historic and atmospheric country house complete with roaring fires and wood panelling and set in its own grounds.
Independent hotel in an idyllic setting.
A theatre-cum cinema in Cockermouth offering a wide programme of touring theatre, music, independent film and events to townsfolk and visitors.
Percy House Gallery in Cumbria is a contemporary art gallery which majors in painting, photography, and craft from local Cumbrian artists and makers.
A snazzy wine and food joint, with a lovely terraced beer garden.
Privately-owned Cockermouth Castle dates back to Norman times and is occasionally open to the public.
Read our latest highlights from the live classical music offer in Manchester and the North, taking in a number of the region's most cherished orchestral forces and venues.
We’re championing all things underground this month, with a selection of gigs and festivals that embrace the strange.
Dragon quests, coconut pyramids and topsy-turvy Wonderland adventures... curious?
Cinematic sets, 90s nightclub photography and even new gallery - we have a great mix of exhibitions for you this month.
Boozy tours, art workshops and a 'hobby house' that champions all things DIY, get the creative cogs whirring with our latest batch of tours and activities.
Make the most of the springtime sun with some of the North's best bars and restaurants.
It's like the Woolies pick'n'mix counter this month in live literature land – so much choice, we're not sure where to start digging in.
DaDaFest’s 40th anniversary line-up, contemporary reimaginings and outlandish fringe, check out our top theatre picks for spring onwards.
