Beckstones Art Gallery in the village of Greystoke is a small family-owned gallery, selling a range of artists’ work, leaning towards the traditional.

A few miles north of Penrith, Hutton-in-the-Forest is an exquisite country house, described by Simon Jenkins as “one of Britain’s top 100”.

Grizedale Arts continues to explore the role of art in society from its award winning eco-base near Coniston.

Make a pilgrimage to this recently renovated ‘Victorian Cabinet of curiosities’ to see the musical stones of Skiddaw, one of the museum’s star objects.

Percy House Gallery in Cumbria is a contemporary art gallery which majors in painting, photography, and craft from local Cumbrian artists and makers.

A luxury B&B in the Georgian heart of Cockermouth

A theatre-cum cinema in Cockermouth offering a wide programme of touring theatre, music, independent film and events to townsfolk and visitors.

Castlegate House Gallery in Cockermouth offers a changing programme of temporary exhibitions.

Lowes Court Gallery in Egremont aims to showcase the quality of traditional and contemporary Cumbrian craft, led by a membership of artists.

A snazzy wine and food joint, with a lovely terraced beer garden.

The Beacon in Whitehaven provides a well-used museum service for local families and visitors, drawing on rich collections – fine and decorative arts, social history, archaeology and natural sciences.

Florence Mine has been transformed into a centre for cultural activity, offering workshops, gallery space, cinema and music venue.