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From The Cumbrian Almanac

Indoor and rain-proof events in Cumbria this month

Things to do in Cumbria when it rains: theatre, museums, workshops, talks and family shows over the next four weeks, all indoors or fine in wet weather.

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Checked 29 September 2026. Every event links to the organiser, where you can book. Times and prices change, so check before you set off.

Tuesday 29 September 2026

  • Talk: Life Before 999

    14:00 The Armitt Museum, Ambleside

    The Ambleside Oral History Group shares first-hand stories of emergencies in the Lake District before modern 999 services, including mountain rescue memories. Organiser

  • Talk: The Seaton Priory Estate and the Pennington Family

    18:30 Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass

    Cumbria Archives senior archivist Rob Baxter tells the story of a little-known medieval nunnery near Bootle and how its lands passed to a branch of the Pennington family. Organiser

Thursday 1 October 2026

  • Tessa Bunney: What the Sea Decides to Give You

    The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness · Free

    Photographs taken in Morecambe Bay working with local fishermen, in Tessa Bunney's first exhibition in Barrow. It closes on 4 October and the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Organiser

  • The Brilliance of Birds

    Rheged, Penrith · £3, children 16 and under free

    Work by 57 UK artists celebrating the beauty, behaviour, symbolism and diversity of birds, in Rheged's gallery. It closes on 4 October. Organiser

  • Tiddlers: Museum Explorer Group

    13:00 The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness · Free

    A hands-on group for little ones with crafts, play and gallery exploration, with a different theme each month. It is designed for children from 18 months and younger children are welcome too. Organiser

  • Back to the Moon for Good Planetarium Show

    16:30 Grizedale Observatory, Grizedale · £13 adults, £8 children, family £35

    A presentation and planetarium film about returning to the Moon, followed by a look at the observatory's meteorite collection, including lunar samples. Lasts about 1.5 hours. Organiser

  • The High Road to Dalton

    18:30 Oxen Park Reading Room, Oxen Park · £5 suggested donation (cash)

    Local historians trace the ancient High Road from Hawkshead to Dalton, a network of tracks linking Furness farmsteads since the 12th century. A Cumbria Wildlife Trust local group talk; the venue is wheelchair accessible. Organiser

  • National Theatre Live: The Misanthrope

    19:15 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £18.00, £17 concessions, £16 under 26s

    Sandra Oh plays the title role in Martin Crimp's version of Molière's comedy, screened from the National Theatre. Rated 15. Organiser

  • A Brief Case of Crazy

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £16, £12 under-26s

    A wordless physical comedy of mime, clowning and puppetry about an awkward office worker, his boss and a troublesome briefcase. Also on the evening of 30 September. Organiser

  • Brockhole 125: The Story of Brockhole from the Gaddum Archives

    19:30 Cartmel Village Hall, Cartmel · £3 visitors, free for members

    Kevin Grice tells the story of Brockhole, now 125 years old, drawing on the Gaddum family archives. A Cartmel Peninsula Local History Society talk. Organiser

  • Early screening of The Chosen, season 6 episode 1

    19:30 St John the Evangelist Church, Carlisle · Free

    A free early showing of the opening episode of The Chosen season 6, with refreshments and discussion afterwards. Tickets are needed through TryBooking. Organiser

  • Interstellar: The Organ Concert

    19:30 Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle · £25, £20, £15

    Roger Sayer, the organist on the Interstellar soundtrack, plays his arrangements of Hans Zimmer's score, opening with pieces from Holst's The Planets. His playing is projected on big screens and there is a Q&A afterwards. Organiser

  • Talk: The Penrith2Kendal Arc

    19:30 Parkin Memorial Hall, Pooley Bridge · Free

    Lee Schofield of the Lowther Farming Partnership talks about nature recovery between Penrith and Kendal, for the Friends of the Ullswater Way. Organiser

Friday 2 October 2026

  • Humphrey the Roman Boar Storytelling

    Senhouse Roman Museum, Maryport

    Storytelling with Humphrey the Roman boar at the Senhouse Roman Museum. Organiser

  • Lakes International Comic Arts Festival

    Brewery Arts and venues across Kendal, Kendal · Tickets via TryBooking, prices vary by event

    Three days of comic art in Kendal with exhibitions, talks, live drawing and screenings. Guests include Bill Sienkiewicz, the opening night is Asterix vs. Tintin: The Rematch, and Little LICAF has family activities. Organiser

  • Mini Retreat Break: Recharge Your Batteries

    Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, Ulverston · £15 event only

    A short weekend break of guided meditation and talks at the Buddhist centre in Conishead Priory, with time for woodland walks and the cafe. Accommodation and meals are booked separately. Organiser

  • Moon Lates at Carlisle Cathedral

    Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle · £7.50 entry, £15 with Moon View Tour

    See Museum of the Moon after hours with atmospheric lighting and soundscapes, with an optional climb up the sandstone stairs for a view from height. Further Moon Lates run on 3, 9, 22, 28 and 29 October and 1 November. Organiser

  • Out of Ink: Cumbria Printmakers exhibition

    The Kirkgate Centre, Cockermouth

    A weekend exhibition of original prints by members of Cumbria Printmakers. Organiser

  • The Retrosettes at Zeffirellis

    Zeffirellis, Ambleside

    Live music at the Zeffirellis jazz bar in Ambleside, listed on the venue's programme for 2 October. Book through Zeffirellis. Organiser

  • Art Workshop: Block Printing

    10:30 Holker Hall and Gardens, Cark-in-Cartmel

    Learn Indian block printing with hand-carved wooden blocks inspired by the Holker gardens, then print a tote bag, apron or cushion cover to take home. All materials are provided and no experience is needed. Bring an apron or old shirt. Organiser

  • Backstage Tour

    10:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £12

    A guided tour of the technical box, wings and stage with a member of theatre staff, lasting about 90 minutes. Groups are limited to 12 and children under 16 need an adult. Organiser

  • Early screening of The Chosen, season 6 episode 1

    13:30 St John the Evangelist Church, Carlisle · Free

    A free early showing of the opening episode of The Chosen season 6, with refreshments and discussion afterwards. Tickets are needed through TryBooking. Organiser

  • CeCe Monsoon presents Bold As Brass

    18:40 The Royalty, Lake Road, Bowness-on-Windermere

    An evening of drag cabaret with international performer CeCe Monsoon, raising funds for Rainbow Hub. Organiser

  • 67,000 Barrovians Can't Be Wrong

    19:00 Cooke's Studios, Abbey Road, Barrow-in-Furness · Free

    A Theatre Factory production of stories old and new celebrating Barrow and its people. Free or pay by donation, but seats must be booked in advance through TicketSource. Organiser

  • Salsa Night: Dance and Dine

    19:00 Skiddaw Hotel, Keswick · £32 per person

    A live salsa demonstration and beginner lesson with Keswick Salsa, with a tapas platter and a glass of sangria; no partner or experience needed. Book through Brasserie 31 at the hotel. Organiser

  • A Brief Case of Crazy

    19:30 The Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere · £16, children £12

    A silent physical comedy of mime, clowning and puppetry in the style of the old silent film stars, about a shy office worker and a troublesome briefcase. Runs for an hour with no interval. Organiser

  • Monstering the Rocketman

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake (Studio), Keswick · £16, £12 under-26s

    An award-winning solo show about Elton John's 1980s libel battle with The Sun. It runs about an hour and a quarter with no interval. Organiser

  • Showaddywaddy

    19:30 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £29.70

    Showaddywaddy play The Sands Centre. Organiser

  • The Smiths Ltd and Transmission

    20:30 The Coro, Ulverston · £23 standing, £28.50 balcony, including booking fee

    A double bill of tribute bands, The Smiths Ltd and Transmission, playing the songs of The Smiths and Joy Division. Doors open at 7.30pm and the venue lists it as 14 and over. Organiser

Saturday 3 October 2026

  • Carlisle Cathedral Farmers' and Makers' Market

    Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle · Free

    Local food producers, crafts and charity stalls in the cathedral grounds and the Fratry. A good one to pair with a look at Museum of the Moon. Organiser

  • Dinosaur World Live

    The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £16.01

    An interactive family show with life-like dinosaurs including T-Rex and Triceratops, lasting 50 minutes plus a 15-minute meet and greet. It won the 2024 Olivier Award for Best Family Entertainment. Organiser

  • Moon Lates

    Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle · £7.50 entry, £15 with Moon View Tour

    See the Museum of the Moon after hours with atmospheric sound and a pop-up bar. The optional Moon View Tour climbs the narrow stone stairs to the clerestory; evening start times are on the cathedral website. Organiser

  • Stevie Williams at Zeffirellis

    Zeffirellis, Ambleside

    Live music at the Zeffirellis jazz bar in Ambleside, listed on the venue's programme for 3 October. Book through Zeffirellis. Organiser

  • Kirkby Stephen Craft and Food Producers Market

    09:00 Masonic Hall and Silver Street Gardens, Kirkby Stephen · Free

    The first-Saturday market of local food, jams, plants and crafts, mostly indoors. Organiser

  • Dalton Castle Open Afternoon

    14:00 Dalton Castle, Dalton-in-Furness · Free

    Friends of Dalton Castle open the castle for the last time this season, so you can climb the spiral staircase, see the dungeon and dress up. It opens on the first Saturday afternoon of each month until October. Organiser

  • A Brief History of Music (Arts Out West)

    19:00 Bassenthwaite Parish Room, Bassenthwaite

    GreenMatthews take a 90-minute comic tour through 600 years of music on instruments such as the virginal, lute and rauschpfeife. Doors 6.30pm. Organiser

  • Another Lesbian Marxist Dystopian Panto

    19:00 Laurel and Hardy Museum, Ulverston · £12.50

    A queer, dystopian twist on the fairytale panto, with sharp humour and revolutionary songs. Tickets are sold through TryBooking. Organiser

  • An Evening of Flanders & Swan and Hinge & Bracket

    19:30 The Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere · £16 adults, £14 Friends of the theatre

    A tribute evening of witty songs and sketches from two much-loved British comedy double acts. Runs for 1 hour 50 minutes. Organiser

  • Illegal Eagles: Hotel California Tour

    19:30 The Coro, Ulverston · £39.50 including booking fee

    The Illegal Eagles play the whole Hotel California album followed by the Eagles' greatest hits. Doors open at 6.45pm and there is a 20 minute interval. Organiser

  • Monstering the Rocketman

    19:30 The Beggar's Theatre, Millom

    A touring stage show at the Beggar's Theatre in Millom. Organiser

  • Attention All Shipping: A Celebration of the Shipping Forecast

    20:00 Rosehill Theatre, Moresby, Whitehaven

    A comedy evening celebrating the Shipping Forecast, staged at Rosehill Theatre. Organiser

Sunday 4 October 2026

Monday 5 October 2026

  • Keeping Up Appearances (the stage play)

    West Walls Theatre, Carlisle

    A stage adaptation of the Roy Clarke sitcom, with Hyacinth trying to win a leading role in the church hall's amateur production. Directed by Jason Munn at the Carlisle Green Room. Organiser

  • A Life with Insects: Confessions of a Lepidopterist

    15:00 Kirkby Stephen Methodist Chapel, Kirkby Stephen · £3 suggested donation

    Entomologist Dr Howard Bell talks about a life with insects and the battle to keep out non-native pests. A short local group AGM follows. Organiser

  • An Evening with Larry Lamb

    18:00 Brantwood, Coniston · £35 including supper

    The actor shares poetry, stories and conversation in John Ruskin's Drawing Room, after a bowl of homemade chilli (meat or vegan). There is a chance to meet him and buy a signed copy of his autobiography. Organiser

Tuesday 6 October 2026

  • Nature Tots at Foulshaw Moss

    10:00 Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve, Witherslack · Free

    Themed play in nature and a craft out on the reserve for pre-schoolers and their grown-ups. Buggy friendly, with undercover areas if it rains. Organiser

  • Talking Tuesday: Illustrated History of Newhouses

    14:00 The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven

    Local artist John Armstrong shares his paintings of Newhouses, which tell the history of the mining community. Booking is essential. Organiser

  • Protecting Dark Skies: A Talk by Friends of the Lake District

    19:00 Swarthmoor Meeting House, Swarthmoor

    A talk on why dark skies matter for wildlife and the wider environment, with tea, coffee and cake. The organisers describe it as non political and say everyone is welcome. Organiser

  • The Shaddongate Uprising 1826

    19:00 New Waterton Hall, Carlisle · £4 members, £7 non-members, including refreshments

    An illustrated talk by Mark Costello on the 1826 Shaddongate election riot, when troops shot three hand-loom weavers. Pay at the door; hosted by Carlisle and District Civic Trust. Organiser

  • Open Space

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £8

    Local artists share works in development in front of a live audience, a chance to see new performance ideas early. Organiser

  • The Great British Bake Off Musical

    19:30 The Coro, Ulverston · £15 to £17

    A stage musical set in the baking tent, with bakers facing buttercream disasters and piping challenges. Doors open at 6.45pm and there is a 20 minute interval. Organiser

Wednesday 7 October 2026

  • Ecstasy of the Virtues

    19:30 Barrow Town Hall Banqueting Hall, Barrow-in-Furness · £10, £5 BSL or relaxed seats

    A new mystery opera composed by Nwando Ebizie, with a BSL movement artist in the cast. There are BSL seats with a vibrating bench and relaxed floor seating with cushions, both at the lower price. Organiser

  • Hannah Scott

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £16, £12 under-26s

    Folk-inspired songs and storytelling from singer-songwriter Hannah Scott. In the Studio. Organiser

  • Walter Trout with Laura Evans

    19:30 Old Fire Station, Carlisle · £30 to £33.60 (as listed)

    American blues-rock guitarist Walter Trout plays with support from Laura Evans. Doors 7.30pm. Organiser

Thursday 8 October 2026

  • Supper and Stories: Wild Venison Week Special

    18:30 Holker Hall and Gardens, Cark-in-Cartmel · £29.95

    A supper of wild venison dishes, with a talk from Joe Groom, Wildlife Officer for Forestry England, on deer management and woodland conservation. Vegetarian and vegan alternatives are not available. Organiser

  • Making Peatlands Work for Butterflies and Moths

    19:00 Quaker Meeting House, Penrith · £3 suggested donation (cash)

    Kay Andrews of Butterfly Conservation explains how peatland restoration helps threatened butterflies and moths, and how you can get involved in survey work. Organiser

  • The People's Emergency Briefing and Q&A

    19:00 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £10.50, £9.50 concessions

    A screening and panel discussion with Lancaster University's Professor Mike Berners-Lee and environmentalist Kate Rawles on the climate and nature crisis. Organiser

  • National Theatre Live: The Misanthrope (subtitled)

    19:15 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £18.00, £17 concessions, £16 under 26s

    A subtitled screening of the National Theatre production with Sandra Oh. Rated 15. Organiser

  • The Long Ryders

    19:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £27.50, £25 concessions

    The alt-country band play the Malt Room standing, with Reuben Tighe supporting. Doors open at 7.30pm. Organiser

  • Top of the Wold by Mikron Theatre

    19:30 Threlkeld Village Hall, Threlkeld · £15 adults, £7.50 under-18s

    A musical comedy about a quirky mobile library visiting East Riding communities, from the touring Mikron Theatre Company. Bar and box office open from 6.45pm. Organiser

Friday 9 October 2026

  • Moon Lates

    Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle · £7.50 entry, £15 with Moon View Tour

    See the Museum of the Moon after hours with atmospheric sound and a pop-up bar. The optional Moon View Tour climbs the narrow stone stairs to the clerestory; evening start times are on the cathedral website. Organiser

  • The Secret Table with Peter Sidwell

    18:30 Underscar Manor, Applethwaite, Keswick

    A guest-chef dining evening at Underscar Manor with chef and TV presenter Peter Sidwell. Contact Underscar for the menu, price and booking. Organiser

  • Evening of Latin America at The Book Brewery

    19:00 The Book Brewery, Ambleside

    Tickets include three freshly made empanadas and samples of three Argentinian wines, plus an introduction to Latin American literature and a browse of the books, which are 10% off that night. Organiser

  • MUSE and FOO's Double Header Tribute Night

    19:00 The Royalty, Bowness-on-Windermere

    Two tribute acts back to back: EMUS playing early Muse albums and In Your Honour playing the Foo Fighters' first five albums and best-known songs. Organiser

  • PAVÉ with Mindskrew and Ant1-T4nk

    19:00 Barrow Town Hall Banqueting Hall, Barrow-in-Furness · £10, £5 students and unwaged

    A gig by PAVÉ with local support acts, part of Barrow Music Week. A mixer for young musicians and bands runs from 6pm. Organiser

  • Brewery Poets Reading

    19:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £8 online, £10 on the door

    Brewery Arts poets read their latest work, including Harriet Fraser and Helena Sanderson. Organiser

  • Elvis Returns

    19:30 Rosehill Theatre, Moresby, Whitehaven

    An evening of Elvis songs at Rosehill Theatre. Organiser

Saturday 10 October 2026

  • Lakes Deer Fest

    09:30 Rheged, Penrith · Free

    A free day celebrating Cumbria's red and roe deer, with cookery and butchery demonstrations, free venison burgers, films, talks, willow weaving and family activities. Organiser

  • Lakes Deer Fest

    10:30 Rheged, Penrith · Most talks free

    A day of talks about deer and the Lake District landscape, from a Behind the Lens session at 10.30am to films from the landscape at 4.15pm. Five of the talks are listed as free; check the Rheged page for the ticketing on each. Organiser

  • Introduction to Stained Glass

    12:00 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £54 plus £15 materials paid to the tutor

    A beginners' workshop where you cut glass, assemble a panel with lead and solder the joints. All tools and materials are provided. Organiser

  • Family Silent Disco at the Dock Museum

    14:00 The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness · £7.50, £5 children

    A family silent disco at the museum, part of the Barrow Music Weekender. There are two sessions, at 2pm and 3.30pm, and under 16s pay a lower price. Organiser

  • RLPO: Pops Goes Classical

    18:00 Barrow Town Hall Banqueting Hall, Barrow-in-Furness · £25, £23 concessions, £10 under 25s

    The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra plays popular classical favourites on The Forum on Tour. There are two performances, at 6pm and 8pm. Organiser

  • Albert Lee

    19:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £28.50

    The Grammy-winning guitarist, once hailed by Eric Clapton as the ultimate virtuoso, plays with his UK band in the seated Extended Theatre. Organiser

Sunday 11 October 2026

  • Holker Hosts the Roast

    13:30 Holker Hall and Gardens, Cark-in-Cartmel

    A Sunday roast in the Ilex room at the cafe during Wild Venison Week, with roast venison haunch, turkey or a nut roast and all the trimmings. Garden entry is included with pre-booked tickets. Organiser

  • The Big Bike Film Night

    16:00 Rheged, Penrith

    A touring programme of short bike films, about two and a half hours long. Organiser

  • Jimeoin: BALLYHOO!

    19:30 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £24.75

    Stand-up comedy from Jimeoin. Organiser

  • Martin Taylor Live at Zeffirellis

    20:00 Zeffirellis, Ambleside · Main room £28, side seats £25

    Fingerstyle jazz guitarist Martin Taylor MBE returns to the Zeffirellis jazz bar with a set of standards. Organiser

Monday 12 October 2026

Tuesday 13 October 2026

  • The Trial of Romeo Oscar

    The Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere · £35 adults, £12 under 25s (other concessions available)

    Alan Ayckbourn's latest play is a courtroom drama in which an android is tried for murder. Runs about three hours including an interval. Organiser

  • Harps North West

    11:00 Allan Bank, Grasmere · Free with normal Allan Bank admission

    A harp quartet plays folk, arranged pop, classics and new pieces in the Wordsworth study, with a chance to chat and try the instruments. Pop-up performances between 11am and 1pm; the room is on the ground floor. Organiser

  • Funny Girl on Screen

    19:15 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £15.50, £13.50 under 16s

    Sheridan Smith stars as Fanny Brice in the musical, filmed on its national tour at Manchester's Palace Theatre. Rated 12A. Organiser

  • Rich Hall: Chin Music

    20:00 Barrow Town Hall Banqueting Hall, Barrow-in-Furness · From £18

    The award-winning comedian brings his touring stand-up show to Barrow Town Hall. Organiser

Wednesday 14 October 2026

  • Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

    Carnegie Theatre and Arts Centre, Workington

    The Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical comes to the Carnegie Theatre for four days. Organiser

  • Just Desserts

    Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £15

    Three short comic plays by Alan Ayckbourn and Jean McConnell about love, infidelity and food: Between Mouthfuls, Cupboard Love and The Kidderminster Affair. Organiser

  • Back to the Moon for Good Planetarium Show

    16:30 Grizedale Observatory, Grizedale · £13 adults, £8 children, family £35

    A presentation and planetarium film about returning to the Moon, followed by a look at the observatory's meteorite collection, including lunar samples. Lasts about 1.5 hours. Organiser

  • Paddling Film Festival 2026

    19:00 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £16, under 18s and students £8

    Lakeland Canoe Club presents an evening of paddling adventure films, from jungle rivers in Gabon to a 1,000-mile canoe expedition. Organiser

Thursday 15 October 2026

  • Floating Sound Bath at Lakeside Hotel

    19:00 Lakeside Hotel and Spa, Newby Bridge · £45 per person

    An hour resting on supportive floats in the hotel's warm indoor pool while crystal and Tibetan bowls and a gong are played around the water. Adults only; arrive about 15 minutes early, and a waiver is required. Organiser

  • An Evening with Terry Pendry

    19:30 Rheged, Penrith

    Terry Pendry, formerly stud groom and manager to the late Queen Elizabeth II and now a Military Knight of Windsor, looks back over his career. Runs for about an hour and a half. Organiser

  • Dara Ó Briain

    20:00 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £33

    The Irish comedian brings his stand-up tour to Carlisle. Organiser

Friday 16 October 2026

  • Death in the Dales Book Festival

    The People's Hall, Sedbergh

    The third annual festival of crime writing in Sedbergh, with author sessions on Saturday and Sunday and a vintage film noir screening with a pie and peas supper on the Friday evening. Organiser

  • Hudson and Hudson: Married at First Sleight

    19:00 The Royalty, Bowness-on-Windermere

    A comedy and magic show from married couple Alan and Kat Hudson, mixing stand-up, sketches, magic and mind reading. Alan won Penn and Teller: Fool Us; both have appeared on Britain's Got Talent. Organiser

  • Postcards from the Peaks and We Wild Camp

    19:15 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £10.50, £9.50 concessions, £7.50 under 26s

    Two adventure films, one following Stu Skinner's postbox journey through UK national parks and one on wild camping, followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker. Organiser

  • Brian Bilston: How To Lay An Egg With A Horse Inside

    19:30 The Coro, Ulverston · £21, £18 NUS (including booking fee)

    The hugely popular social media poet brings an evening of comic verse and chat about reading, writing and enjoying poetry, with material from his latest book. Organiser

  • Legend: The Music of Bob Marley

    19:30 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £30.80

    A live tribute concert to the music of Bob Marley. Organiser

  • Norrie MacIver

    19:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £21.50, £19.70 under 25s

    A Gaelic singer-songwriter from the Isle of Lewis and former Skipinnish singer. Doors open at 7.30pm; under 16s need an adult at evening events. Organiser

  • The Bluetones

    19:30 Old Fire Station, Carlisle · From £27.50

    The Britpop favourites play Carlisle's Old Fire Station. The time given is doors, and some ticket sellers have already sold out. Organiser

  • Rosehill's Comedy Club

    20:00 Rosehill Theatre, Moresby, Whitehaven

    A night of stand-up comedy at Rosehill Theatre. Organiser

  • Shooglenifty

    20:00 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £23.50

    The Scottish 'acid croft' band bring their mix of folk, beats and electronica to the standing Malt Room, touring their tenth album Stamina Island. Organiser

Saturday 17 October 2026

Sunday 18 October 2026

  • Indoor Car Boot Sale

    Penrith Leisure Centre, Penrith

    An indoor car boot sale at Penrith Leisure Centre, so it goes ahead whatever the weather. Organiser

  • Make a Mug with Marianne Lusby

    10:00 Rheged, Penrith

    A pottery class making a mug with Marianne Lusby. Organiser

  • Hadestown: The Musical

    13:30 Rheged, Penrith

    A screening of the Hadestown stage musical, rated 12A and running for about 2 hours 37 minutes. Organiser

  • Beyond The Barricade

    19:30 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £26.95

    A musical theatre concert at The Sands Centre. Organiser

  • Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £22, £12 under-26s

    An interactive screening of the Murder, She Wrote episode Paint Me a Murder, hosted by Tim Benzie with games, prizes, a Cabot Cove quiz and a theme tune singalong. In the Main House. Organiser

  • Take Care: An Evening with Lindsey Burrow

    19:30 The Coro, Ulverston · £33 with a signed book, £23 without, including booking fee

    An evening with Lindsey Burrow, with a signed book included in the higher-priced ticket. There is a 20 minute interval and doors open at 6.45pm. Organiser

Monday 19 October 2026

  • Ash

    19:00 Old Fire Station, Carlisle · From £19.54

    Northern Irish rock band Ash return to Carlisle for the first time in nine years. The time given is doors. Organiser

Tuesday 20 October 2026

  • Northern Quilts

    Tullie, Carlisle · Included with museum admission

    Three days only to see 16 quilts from the Tullie collection that have not been on public display for over 20 years, including a wedding quilt from 1790 by Betty Ballas of Appleby. Organiser

  • The Gruffalo

    The Coro, Ulverston · £15.50, £13.50, including booking fee

    Tall Stories' musical adaptation of the Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler picture book, in four performances over two days. Doors open 45 minutes before each show and there is no interval. Organiser

  • The Picture of Dorian Gray

    Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £11 to £32

    A stage version of Oscar Wilde's gothic novel about beauty, corruption and consequence, a good fit for the run-up to Halloween. Organiser

  • Cantate Showcase Under the Moon

    18:30 Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle · £15 adults, £7.50 children

    The cathedral's Cantate children's choir sings beneath Museum of the Moon. Ticket money goes to the cathedral's organ restoration project. Organiser

  • Macbeth: The Met Opera

    18:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £19.00, £18 concessions, £17 under 26s

    Verdi's Macbeth from the Metropolitan Opera with Quinn Kelsey and Lise Davidsen, screened live to cinema. Rated 12A. Organiser

  • Darol Anger and Bruce Molsky

    19:00 Malt Kiln Village Hall, Bardsea · £20

    Fiddlers Darol Anger and Bruce Molsky play together at Bardsea's village hall. Tickets are sold through TryBooking. Organiser

  • Borderlines: Lee and Andrew Child in Conversation

    19:30 Old Fire Station, Carlisle · £22

    The Borderlines Carlisle Book Festival opens with the brothers behind Jack Reacher talking about their new thriller, Chain Reaction. Under-26s get £2 off. Organiser

  • Friends of the Lake District: Hedgerows Update

    19:30 Methodist Church Hall, Hartley Street, Ulverston · £3 suggested donation (cash)

    Leanne Parr gives an update on Friends of the Lake District's conservation work, with a focus on their hedgerow projects. Hosted by Cumbria Wildlife Trust's local group. Organiser

  • Yatter: Spoken Word Night

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £8

    An evening of stories, poems and spoken word hosted by storyteller Jessie McMeekin, with guest performers and open mic slots for local voices. Organiser

Wednesday 21 October 2026

  • Twilight Tales at Dove Cottage

    16:00 Dove Cottage and Wordsworth Museum, Grasmere · Children £10, adults £5

    A Halloween family session with hot chocolate, gingerbread and crafts, then Georgian dress-up and a chance to hear the Wordsworths' writing. At dusk the group moves into Dove Cottage for spooky Cumbrian stories. Book through Wordsworth Grasmere. Organiser

  • Martin Simpson: Some Kind of Jubilee Tour

    19:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £25.50, £23.30 concessions

    The folk guitarist marks 50 years since his debut with songs from his latest album. Doors open at 7.30pm. Organiser

  • Royal Northern Sinfonia: Vivaldi's Four Seasons

    19:30 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £11

    The Royal Northern Sinfonia plays Vivaldi's Four Seasons. Tickets start at £11, which makes it a good first orchestral concert. Organiser

Thursday 22 October 2026

  • Moon Lates

    Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle · £7.50 entry, £15 with Moon View Tour

    See the Museum of the Moon after hours with atmospheric sound and a pop-up bar. The optional Moon View Tour climbs the narrow stone stairs to the clerestory; evening start times are on the cathedral website. Organiser

  • Planetarium Show: Messengers of Space and Time

    16:30 Grizedale Observatory, Grizedale

    A talk in the lounge followed by a planetarium film on how real-time data is changing our view of the universe. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours. Organiser

  • Burneside Brass and Burneside Training Band

    19:00 The Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere · £10 adults, £7.50 seniors and children

    A concert of film and television favourites from a local brass band and its training band. Runs for 1 hour 50 minutes. Organiser

  • Murder at Gatsby Manor

    19:00 Merewood Country House Hotel, Windermere · £49 per person

    A 1920s murder mystery dinner with a pre-dinner Prosecco, two-course dinner and a live Criminal Cabaret performance. Gatsby-style dress is optional. Organiser

  • Hadestown: The Musical on Screen

    19:15 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £15.00, £14 concessions, £13 under 26s

    The Tony-winning musical filmed live in London's West End. Rated 12A. Organiser

  • Furness on Film

    19:30 The Roxy Cinema, Ulverston · £10

    The North West Film Archive screens footage of life in and around Furness over the last 100 years. The screening has closed captions and a BSL signer. Book through the Roxy Cinema. Organiser

  • Off Grid

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £16, £12 under-26s

    A comedy about two men on a camping trip in Lancashire with no internet, some beer and years of resentment. In the Studio. Organiser

  • Peatbog Faeries

    19:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £26.50

    The Isle of Skye band blend jigs and reels with dance-floor grooves in a standing gig in the Malt Room. Organiser

Friday 23 October 2026

  • Potfest in the Pens

    Cumberland Auction Mart, Penrith

    The annual Potfest in the Pens, a selling show of contemporary ceramics, held over three days. Organiser

  • Backstage Tour

    10:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £12

    A guided tour of the technical box, wings and stage with a member of theatre staff, lasting about 90 minutes. Groups are limited to 12 and children under 16 need an adult. Organiser

  • Ghastly Stories for Gruesome Gremlins

    16:00 Gleaston Village Hall, Gleaston · £5

    A silly and spooky storytelling show from Gav Cross, aimed at ages 6 and over with their families. It lasts about an hour. Organiser

  • Back to the Moon for Good Planetarium Show

    16:30 Grizedale Observatory, Grizedale Forest, Grizedale · £13 adults, £8 children, family £35

    A presentation and planetarium film about returning to the Moon, followed by a look at the observatory's meteorite collection, including lunar samples. Lasts about 1.5 hours; also on 1 and 14 Oct and 5, 18 and 27 Nov. Organiser

  • Cosmic Cumbria Evening: Talk, Film and Exhibition Launch

    19:00 Rheged, Penrith

    An evening of talk and film that also launches the Cosmic Cumbria exhibition. Check the Rheged page for the running order. Organiser

  • Big Fish Comedy Club

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £15, £12 under-26s

    Three comedians from the North West scene and beyond in the Studio's small-pond, big-fish comedy night. Organiser

  • Jason Byrne: 30 Years Byrning

    19:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £33.50

    The Irish comedian marks three decades of stand-up with a high-energy show full of audience interaction and daft stunts. Organiser

  • Mark Borthwick: The War of the Birds

    19:30 Rosehill Theatre, Moresby, Whitehaven

    A live music evening with Mark Borthwick at Rosehill Theatre. Organiser

  • Republica

    19:30 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £33.50

    The Nineties band celebrate 30 years of their hit single, with Trampolene in support. Doors open at 7.30pm; 16 and over, and under 18s need an adult. Organiser

  • The War of the Worlds: A Performed Reading

    19:30 Gleaston Village Hall, Gleaston · £10 to £15

    Gav Cross gives a solo reading of H G Wells' novel in the style of a Victorian parlour reading, with an original soundtrack. It runs for about 100 minutes and is recommended for ages 12 and over. Organiser

  • Dreamboys World Tour

    20:00 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £28.60 including booking fee

    The Dreamboys touring variety show, listed by the Sands Centre as a variety show. Organiser

Saturday 24 October 2026

  • John Lydon: I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right

    The Beggar's Theatre, Millom

    John Lydon in an evening of stories and questions from the audience. Organiser

  • World's Biggest Liar Contest

    Jennings Brewery, Cockermouth

    The World's Biggest Liar Contest is listed for Saturday 24 October at Jennings on the Cockermouth town guide. Start time and entry details were not given on the listing. Organiser

  • Life as a Spiritual Journey

    09:00 Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, Ulverston · £30 event only

    A day retreat of teachings and guided meditations on finding meaning in everyday life. It suits beginners and experienced meditators, with three sessions through the day. Organiser

  • Felt and Textile Landscape Workshop

    10:30 Plumgarths, Kendal · £55

    Artist Penny Hillier-Evans guides you through felt and textile techniques to make your own autumn landscape. No drawing or painting experience needed, and refreshments are included through the day. Organiser

  • Royal Ballet and Opera: Macbeth

    13:30 Rosehill Theatre, Moresby, Whitehaven

    A cinema screening of the Royal Ballet and Opera's Macbeth, shown at Rosehill Theatre. Organiser

  • Frightful Family Halloween Crafts

    14:15 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £6.50 per person (£12 with the Hocus Pocus screening)

    A Halloween craft session making spooky decorations, with costumes welcome and all materials provided. Wear clothes that can get messy. Organiser

  • Hocus Pocus (PG) Halloween Screening

    16:15 Brewery Arts, Kendal · £7.50

    The Halloween family favourite on the big screen, and it pairs neatly with the crafts session beforehand for a combined £12 ticket. Organiser

  • Meet the Moon: children's talk with Stuart Atkinson

    17:00 Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle

    Astronomy writer Stuart Atkinson takes young stargazers on a tour of the lunar surface, with real moon rock to look at. More sessions run from 23 to 25 October, including informal drop-in talks for all ages and an adults' evening. Organiser

  • Shadows of Townend: Folklore, Fear and Farmhouse Magic

    18:00 Townend, Troutbeck, Windermere · £18 per ticket

    A candlelit Halloween tour of the 17th-century farmhouse with a costumed guide, on the Browne family's superstitions, remedies and protective marks. Two one-hour sessions, at 6pm and 7.30pm; the house has uneven floors, steps and a spiral staircase. Organiser

  • Appleby Festival of Remembrance

    19:00 Appleby Market Hall, Appleby-in-Westmorland · £10 adults, under 16s free

    An evening of music, remembrance and community, with the money raised shared between the poppy appeal and the town band. Organiser

  • Alex McAleer: Mind Reader

    19:30 The Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere · £18, under 25s £12

    A mentalist show of apparent mind reading, psychology and dry comedy with plenty of audience interaction. Runs for 1 hour 45 minutes including an interval. Organiser

  • Iolanthe: A Concert Performance

    19:30 St Mark's Church, Barrow-in-Furness · Free

    A concert performance of Gilbert and Sullivan's Iolanthe, with free entry and a collection for St Mary's Hospice in Ulverston. Singers can join optional daytime chorus rehearsals from 2pm for £5, with scores to borrow. Organiser

  • The Legends in Vegas: After Hours

    19:30 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £33 including booking fee

    A ballroom and commercial dance show at the Sands Centre. Organiser

  • Simon Evans: Staring at the Sun

    20:00 Rosehill Theatre, Moresby, Whitehaven

    Stand-up comedy from Simon Evans on his Staring at the Sun tour. Organiser

  • Snake Davis Band

    20:00 Threlkeld Village Hall, Threlkeld · £19 adults, £10 under-18s

    Saxophonist Snake Davis brings his four-piece band for original pieces and sax classics, from soul and pop to jazz and world music. Online tickets are collected from the box office on the night. Organiser

Sunday 25 October 2026

  • Half-Term Pumpkin Carving at Allan Bank

    Allan Bank, Grasmere · £5 per child plus admission

    Short carving sessions with pumpkins prepared for you, sharp plastic tools and a tea light to take home. Sessions run through the day, 30 minutes each; children must be accompanied. Organiser

  • The Stars from The Commitments

    The Beggar's Theatre, Millom

    Members of the cast of The Commitments perform live at the Beggar's Theatre. Organiser

  • Trick or Treat Cartoon Circus

    11:00 Rheged, Penrith · £10 per person

    An hour of clowns, slapstick, magic, plate spinning and puppets for half term. There is a second show at 1.30pm. Organiser

  • Top Secret: The Magic of Science

    14:00 The Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere · Adults £15, children £12

    A family show of science experiments and magic tricks that turns the theatre into a laboratory. Runs for 1 hour 40 minutes including an interval, and can be booked with a visit to the World of Beatrix Potter. Organiser

  • Eddi Reader

    19:30 The Coro, Ulverston · £31 including booking fee

    The Scottish singer-songwriter Eddi Reader marks over 40 years as a live performer. Doors open at 6.45pm and there is a 20 minute interval. Organiser

  • The Amy Winehouse Band

    19:30 The Sands Centre, Carlisle · From £32.45

    The band play the songs of Amy Winehouse live. Organiser

Monday 26 October 2026

  • Halloween Crafting at Windermere Jetty Museum

    Windermere Jetty Museum, Windermere · Free

    A free drop-in half-term craft in the Learning Centre where children make a fish mask to take home. Also running on Saturday 24 October. Organiser

  • Halloween Pet Encounters

    The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven · £9 per child, £5.50 per adult

    Children can meet and interact with animals in a half-term session, with sessions at 11am, 1pm and 3pm on both days. Organiser

  • On Your Bike Baffo

    11:00 The Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere · Show only: £10 adults, £8 children

    A cycle-themed clown show with silly stunts and live music, aimed at young children. Two shows, at 11am and 2pm. Runs for 45 minutes. Organiser

  • Gaby Gulliver's Travels

    14:00 Rosehill Theatre, Whitehaven · £12 / £10

    A 45-minute family puppet show, followed by a chance to meet the puppets. Organiser

  • Gaby Gulliver's Travels

    14:00 Rosehill Theatre, Moresby, Whitehaven

    A family theatre show at Rosehill Theatre during the October half-term. Organiser

  • Twilight Tales at Dove Cottage

    16:00 Dove Cottage and Wordsworth Museum, Grasmere · Children £10, adults £5

    A Halloween family session with hot chocolate, gingerbread and crafts, then Georgian dress-up and a chance to hear the Wordsworths' writing. At dusk the group moves into Dove Cottage for spooky Cumbrian stories. Book through Wordsworth Grasmere. Organiser

  • Monster Mash Kids' Halloween Party

    17:00 The Swan Hotel, Newby Bridge · £12 per child, adults free

    A Halloween party for children with a UV mini disco, themed treats, games and challenges, and pizza and chips for the children. Costumes are encouraged and adults can buy cocktails. Organiser

  • Talk at the School: Folklore and Spooky Tales

    17:30 Hawkshead Grammar School Museum, Hawkshead

    The director of Hawkshead's ghost tours, Tallow Tales, shares the village's horrifying tales, folklore and legends in a talk of about 40 minutes with time for questions. Refreshments provided; tickets at the door or on Eventbrite. The schoolroom is often cold. Organiser

  • Daniel Kitson: Thrum

    20:00 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £15, £12 under-26s

    Perrier Award winner Daniel Kitson with an evening of comedy, music and poetic observation about everyday objects and moments. In the Main House. Organiser

Tuesday 27 October 2026

  • Astro Norma

    11:00 The Victoria Wood Theatre, Bowness-on-Windermere · Show only: £10 adults, £8 children

    A musical quest with a piano and a lot of cosmic silliness to find Grandpa's lost star. Two shows, at 11am and 2pm. Runs for 45 minutes with no interval. Organiser

  • Halloween Ceramic Painting

    11:00 Levens Hall, Levens · £20 pumpkin lantern, £23 star jar lantern

    Paint a spooky ceramic pumpkin lantern or star jar, with glazes and kiln firing included. Tickets are sold through Paint Pot Barn. Organiser

  • Ghost Stories with Tallow Tales

    15:00 Tabitha Twitchit's Bookshop (National Trust), Hawkshead · Adults £6, children £4

    Spooky stories and folklore told by candlelight in the upstairs room of the bookshop, with some audience participation and scares suitable for families. Book by phone on 0344 249 1895; the room is upstairs and not accessible, and the tales may start outside in fair weather. Organiser

  • Twilight Tales at Dove Cottage

    16:00 Dove Cottage and Wordsworth Museum, Grasmere · Children £10, adults £5

    A Halloween family session with hot chocolate, gingerbread and crafts, then Georgian dress-up and a chance to hear the Wordsworths' writing. At dusk the group moves into Dove Cottage for spooky Cumbrian stories. Book through Wordsworth Grasmere. Organiser

  • Pumpkin Painting for Adults

    19:00 The Coro, Ulverston · £6 including booking fee

    An adults-only evening of pumpkin painting with an art tutor on hand. Pumpkins and materials are supplied and the bar is open. Organiser

  • A Warning to the Curious

    19:30 St Mary's Church, Kirkby Lonsdale · £15, under 18s £10

    R M Lloyd Parry performs two M R James ghost stories by candlelight in the church, with a pop-up bar. Organiser

  • Borderlines: Charlie Higson and Vaseem Khan in Conversation

    19:30 Old Fire Station, Carlisle · £12, £10 under 25s

    Two crime writers discuss their new James Bond novels: Charlie Higson on King Zero and Vaseem Khan on The Man with the Golden Compass. Organiser

  • Dave Rowntree: No One You Know

    19:30 Barrow Town Hall Banqueting Hall, Barrow-in-Furness · £12, £10 concessions

    Blur drummer Dave Rowntree tells the stories behind the band's early years in a solo show. Organiser

  • In the Land of Eagles

    19:30 Theatre by the Lake, Keswick · £16, £12 under-26s

    A granddaughter and her grandfather travel to Albania, where he shares the truth of his life before England while facing a serious diagnosis. In the Studio. Organiser

By area

Carlisle and the northEden and PenrithKeswick and the northern LakesSouth LakesKendal and Kirkby LonsdaleFurness and CartmelWest coast

By month

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