We get it, you might be thinking "Surely you can't be mentioning Christmas already it's only October!". Well, Scrooge, it's actually sooner than you think.

November is just around the corner which means festive Christmas markets will start popping up all over the UK - not least in Cumbria.

Christmas markets are (arguably) the number one way of getting in the festive spirit, typically by consuming large quantities of mulled wine.

Whether you’re looking for tasty treats, traditional decorations, handpicked arts and crafts or just shopping for a last-minute present, a Christmas market is the place to be, especially for the little ones.

With that in mind, we've taken the liberty of drawing up the main Christmas markets that'll be taking place across Cumbria over the coming months.

Cumbria Christmas markets:

Christmas in Cartmel, Cartmel

24th November 2023
11am – 7:30pm

The south Lake District village of Cartmel is an idyllic spot to experience a magical Christmas market and fayre. And staying in one of our Cartmel Cottages is a Christmas treat in itself.

Whilst this village grew around its Medieval Priory, today the streets are filled with artisan shops from local producers. If you’re shopping for a foodie this Christmas, look no further.

Dickensian Christmas Festival, Ulverston

25th – 26th November 2023

The last weekend in November sees the Dickensian Christmas Festival take place in Ulverston. Arguably one of the best Dickensian Christmas markets in the country, a visit to this Lake District Christmas festival is a must.

The period dress costume competitions are the main event, and there’s costumes available to hire locally to help get you into the festive spirit.

Ambleside Christmas Lights, Ambleside

18th November 2023

A schedule of festive events is set to take place in the town of Ambleside this November.

Festive market stalls and entertainment will take place throughout the day in the centre of the town, and a lantern procession will make its way through the streets at 4:30 pm.

The fun concludes with a fireworks display at Rothay Park. Hats and gloves at the ready, as it’s bound to be a chilly evening in Ambleside!

Hawkshead Christmas Fair, Hawkshead

2nd – 3rd December 2023
10am – 4pm

The Hawkshead Christmas Fair is a traditional family event with something for everybody. 

Carlisle Christmas Market, Carlisle

1st – 17th December 2023

Held annually in the heart of Carlisle, this Lake District Christmas market sees the streets of this Cumbrian city transform into a Winter wonderland.