29th January 2024
Family Friendly Things to do this February Half Term in the Lake District
The new year may have not long begun, but the half term holiday is already upon us and there’s lots of family friendly things going on in and around Threlkeld, Windermere and Keswick here in the Lake District.
If you’re visiting Cumbria with little ones this February, there’s plenty to entertain, from arts, crafts and nature trails, to museums, playgrounds and more. Here are a few of our favourite family friendly things to do in the Lake District this February half term.
Enjoy a Steam Train Ride
Experience a magical way to travel this February onboard a traditional steam train. The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway is open for half term (15 – 24 February), with connections available with Windermere Lake Cruises for a fantastic family day out. Add in a trip to the Lakes Aquarium and you’re sure to keep kids entertained for hours!
Have fun in the South Lakes
This half term, there’s a whole host of events and activities taking place at arts & culture attractions across the South Lakes.
At the Windermere Jetty Museum, experience the interactive audio trail, “Step into Steamland”, inspired by stories created by 140 primary school children. Or head to Wordsworth Grasmere for arts, crafts and outdoor activities. Discover what’s on this February in the South Lakes here.
Visit some of Cumbria’s Impressive Castles
On the west coast, Muncaster Castle is a beautiful castle and gardens, with a hawk and owl centre open on weekends during February.
Near Penrith, the impressive ruins of Lowther Castle are set amidst acres of award-winning gardens. Deep within the grounds, discover the Lost Castle adventure playground – one of the largest in the country, with a maze of turrets, zipwires, walkways and slides.
Explore Whinlatter Forest at Night
On Friday 9th February, cover 3-4 miles of twilight trails, and, weather permitting, there will be stops for some amazing star gazing opportunities. As an amateur astronomer, your guide will help you have some fun finding the major constellations and have star maps on hand.
Please be aware the route will be on a range of surfaces and may be wet and muddy. Children under 12 must be within reach of their responsible appropriate adult at all times, older children must have an over 18 on site for the event.
Book a Peter Rabbit Tea Party
Join Beatrix Potter + Peter Rabbit for a fun afternoon at the World of Beatrix Potter attraction from 11th & 17th February.
Beatrix will read the wonderful Tale of Peter Rabbit and the world’s most famous bunny will be available for pictures with all his fans. Every child will have their very own rabbit ears to colour in, plus a special gift to take away.
Tickets cost £28 adults, £22 child 3-16, £16 child 1-2, £7.50 baby and include:
- Entry to the World of Beatrix Potter attraction between 10 am – 4.30 pm on the day
- Afternoon Tea, story-time with the wonderful ‘Beatrix Potter’ and gift for every child
- A photo opportunity with Peter Rabbit. Book via Peter Rabbit events
Get to grips with crafts in Windermere
‘Paint a Planter’ family sessions take place at Brockhole on Windermere 12 – 16th February.
Transform a ready-made wooden structure into a painted, colourful planter. Then plant up with wildflower seeds and watch your creation bloom.
Tickets age 5–11 years cost £8 per child and can be booked online or in the shop prior to the session. Adults go free, but must supervise their children.
- Monday 12th February 1.30 – 3pm
- Tuesday 13th February 1.30 – 3pm
- Wednesday 14th February 1.30 – 3pm
- Thursday 15th February 1.30 – 3pm
- Friday 16th February 1.30 – 3pm
Play I Spy at Fitz Park in Keswick
Drop-in to the museum and pick up your free ‘I Spy Trail’. It’s a great way to explore Keswick’s beautiful Fitz Park with your children, any day of the week. Find the numbers, look around, look up high and on the ground, spot an eagle and a fountain, spy a bridge, a bear, a mountain!
There are 10 trail posts to find, and, when you’ve spotted them all, pop back to the museum for a prize. Find out more here.
