It’s February; it’s cold and blustery; it’s half-term!
If you’re visiting the Lake District with (or without) the kids this February half term, it might be daunting to think about being stuck indoors all day with nothing to do (especially if you have little ones to entertain!).
Never fear! If there’s one thing the Lake District is good at (besides the awesome hiking that is), it’s entertaining folk, whatever the weather. So, without further ado- Here are the eight-best events and things to do in the Lakes this half term:
1. February activities at Whinlatter
2. Keswick Film Festival, 28th Feb – 3rd March
3. Exhibitions and adventures at Brockhole
4. Cumbria Wildlife Trust Conservation days
5. Friends of the Lake District volunteer days
6. Create a textile landscape
7. A Pancake trail at Lowther Castle & Gardens
8. What’s on at World of Beatrix Potter?
February activities at Whinlatter
From 16th February, the forest of Whinlatter will be opening its brand-new activity trail for kids, inspired by the dragon Zog, and his quest to win a golden star. From the creators of The Gruffalo.
During half term, the forest also runs a popular adventure club. From Monday the 18th till Wednesday 20th, for children aged 7 through 12. The club costs £60 for all three days and host an amazing array of activities, like den building, tree planting, and more fun outdoors stuff for kids to get involved in. Find out more here: www.forestryengland.uk/whinlatter
Keswick Film Festival, 28th Feb – 3rd March
We are so excited about the Keswick Film Festival- Back for its 20th year, It’s bigger and better than ever! With over 30 films, from directors all over the world- this year’s film festival is set to be unmissable: www.keswickfilmclub.org/festival/home
Brockhole: exhibitions and adventure days out
This month, Brockhole is hosting an art exhibition by Lake District landscape and astro-photographer, Ben Bush. Considering the big push to name the Lake District National Park a Dark Skies Reserve, as well as Dale Head Hall’s amazing Stargazing, Valentine’s weekend this month; it’s only fitting that we put this celestial exhibition in our top three! www.brockhole.co.uk
As well as excellent exhibitions- Brockhole offers all sorts of outdoor pursuits, fit for families and people of all ages. From Kayaking and caving to soft play and mini-golf; check out their other amazing family days out (or 'days in' for that matter).
Cumbria Wildlife Trust Conservation days
If you like the outdoors and want to get stuck in, helping the Lake District environment, why not join-up on one of Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s many conservation days? On the 12th Feb, volunteers will be planting hedges to create a haven for pollinators, birds and other wildlife near Carlisle. Learn how to plant and manage species-rich hedgerows. You can find all of Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s volunteer days here: www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/events
Friends of the Lake District volunteer days
Speaking of volunteering. Friends of the Lake District host many varied volunteer days throughout the year, with several taking place this February. Why not try your hand at dry-stone walling; tree planting; fence mending, or many other cool countryside preservation activities! Find all of their volunteering dates here: www.friendsofthelakedistrict.org.uk
Create a textile landscape at Plumgarths near Kendal, 12th Feb
Join artist Penny Hillier-Evans for an afternoon of fell-based felt art. Create your own fabric landscape and enjoy plenty of cake, tea and chit-chat to boot. Courtesy of Cumbria Wildlife Trust:
A Pancake trail at Lowther Castle & Gardens 16th Feb – 28th March
Discover some fascinating pancake facts as you take part in Lowther Castle's 'pre-Easter trail' around the garden. As you go, you will learn things you never imagined you would about pancakes and pick up some clues to break a code. Plus, free pancakes for all intrepid young explorers! This is a free event for all ages, although admission to Lowther castle and gardens is required. As well as this exciting new trail- Lowther is hosting garden tours and even a Turner exhibition at the castle this month- find out more here: www.lowthercastle.org/to-do/whats-on
What’s on at World of Beatrix Potter?
As usual, the World of Beatrix Potter comes through to save half term! As well as their usual array of crafty afternoons; WOBP are throwing some more of their famous Peter Rabbit tea parties! There are several tea parties taking place in February, but book fast as they sell-out very quickly! View the full calendar here: www.hop-skip-jump.com/events
Read more about things to do in the Lakes: