Heritage Open Days weekend. Lots of free things, some need booking today.
Mid September, so mild days but noticeably cooler evenings and earlier dusk. We can't say what the sky will do, so check the MWIS Lake District forecast before you go, and keep an indoor option for the afternoon.
A short climb up to a hilltop with big views over the River Kent estuary and Morecambe Bay, past Scots pines and limestone grassland. It's short enough that six and seven year olds can do it without a tantrum, and there's plenty to look at on the way.
Steep, gravelled paths that can be loose and slippery, plus gates and stiles. Not suitable for buggies, there are no toilets on site, and the car park only holds about 15 to 20 cars.
Keswick town centre Buy the trail pack online, Primary age
A self-guided treasure trail round Keswick town centre with a fictional villain plotting against the pencil mine. Easy to fit in after school before the light goes at about 7.39pm. Details and booking
Low Borrowbridge Farm, near Tebay Free, booking required, Check with the organiser
A guided walk of about two hours with an archaeologist through the farm, Roman fort, railway and motorway. Booking was due to close on 11 September, so it's today or never, and dogs aren't allowed. Details and booking
Bowness, Ambleside, Lakeside and other piers Cruises from about £14.80 at the time of writing, All ages
The Islands cruise from Bowness takes 45 minutes and is the easy one with small children. The Red Cruise to Ambleside is longer, at 75 minutes. Details and booking
Southern tip of Windermere Book online or pay on arrival, All ages
Thirty thousand exhibits of vintage cars and motorbikes, the Campbell Bluebird exhibition, a 1930s garage and children's quizzes. A solid wet-day backup. Details and booking
Daily, 10am to 5pm in summer hours, last entry an hour before closing
Lowther, Penrith CA10 2HH See website for tickets, All ages
The Lost Castle adventure playground is described as the largest wooden play structure in the country, with turrets, tunnels and zip wires. Sundays here are easy, especially with a cafe on site. Details and booking
Ravenglass to Dalegarth for Boot See website, All ages
The seven-mile 'La'al Ratty' steam railway from the coast into the fells, running past Muncaster Mill. Check the timetable, as we couldn't confirm September running times. Details and booking
Sizergh, near Kendal LA8 8DZ See National Trust for prices, All ages
Gardens, an orchard, wetland walks and a Wonder World: Earth children's trail. The estate has buggy-friendly paths and a wild play area. Details and booking
Acorn Bank, Temple Sowerby CA10 1SP Free event, normal admission may apply, All ages
Heritage Open Days celebration with mill demonstrations, flour for sale and baking samples, and an art table for children. No booking needed. Details and booking
A very old fair with a greasy pole, the apple cart parade at 12.30pm, and the World Gurning Championships that evening. It also has a new Kids Fest marquee with circus workshops and a petting zoo. Details and booking
Outdoors
Tip. If you're doing the Heritage Open Days, check the booking status on each event page, as several sell out. Arnside Knott's car park is small, so consider parking in Arnside village and walking up.