Get out and about in the Lake District this September

Posted on August 30, 2019 | Events, Information, News

Look forward to a host of events in the Lake District this September

As August draws to a close and September comes into view, the Lake District starts to take on the glorious colours of autumn, clothing the fells in a patchwork of red, russet and gold. But while it may be time to pack away the buckets and spades and dig out the satchels and sports bags, it doesn’t mean that there isn’t plenty to look forward to.

1. Enjoy an old-fashioned country show

Agricultural shows are still attracting crowds in the Lake District – events usually last all day and offer lots of interest for kids and adults alike. The 143rd annual Loweswater Show takes place on Sunday 1 September. If you’re looking for a traditional experience in a stunning setting in the Lorton Valley, complete with fat cattle, Morris dancing and locally brewed ale, this could be the perfect pick of month’s outdoor events. If you’re based in the South Lakes, you might prefer to pop along to the annual Westmorland County Show on Thursday 12 September at the show grounds near Crooklands on the southern fringe of the Lake District. It’s a major livestock show with show jumping and Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling, as well as foodie delights aplenty.

2. Soak up a bit of culture

the Old Laundry Theatre in Bowness launches a new season of plays in September, including a unique adaptation of Henry James’s creepy masterpiece The Turn of the Screw, told through puppetry and music. Light-hearted production Pamela’s Palace follows the fortunes of a cast of characters working in a beauty salon, while an adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s 1928 book Orlando explores issues around identity. In Kendal, the free contemporary arts festival Lakes Alive will make art installations accessible to the public across Kendal and the southern Lake District. The event kicks off on Friday 6 September with a ‘Jacob’s Join’ sharing supper in Abbott Hall Park and runs till Sunday 8 September. There will be theatrical performances, guided walks and film screenings as well – don’t miss it!

3. Celebrate the changing seasons

Kendal Torchlight Carnival is an amazing after-dark event that brings the town’s people – residents and visitors alike – together in celebration. You’ll see more than 100 floats on the night, plus dance troupes and bands representing every part of the community. The carnival procession starts from Kirbie Kendal School on the evening of Friday 27 September, circuiting the town centre. On Saturday the town plays host to a vibrant street party, with live music and dance performances staged from 10am through till early evening. Workshops will ensure participants have the opportunity to get creative, while a street market offers the chance to discover some vintage finds.

4. Look to the stars

And if you value Cumbria’s dark skies, you might want to take advantage of the opportunity to attempt some stargazing this autumn. Grizedale Forest lies at the heart of the Lake District, far enough from urban areas that often pollute the night sky. On a variety of dates in September, local astronomer Robert Ince will lead stargazing sessions here using binoculars and telescopes to take a closer look at the constellations in the Milky Way. Booking – and warm clothing – is essential!