8 recommended things to do in Cumbria for kids

The north west of England is the perfect location for a great family holiday. There are so many fun things to do in Cumbria for kids. Read on for our recommendations for some great ideas to keep everyone busy and entertained.

1. Carlisle Castle

Dominating the stunning Cumbrian countryside for centuries, this landmark is fun for all the family. The castle’s exhibition reveals the fortress’ long and rich history including its role in Anglo-Scottish border warfare and the Civil War. With guided tours, a picnic area and gift shop, Carlisle Castle is a great day out. Open daily from March to November, adult tickets are £5.70 and children are £3.40. The Cumbria Military Museum is also located here and is included in the admission price when the castle is open. If the kids love castle, another great place to visit is Sizergh Castle, just 4 miles south of Kendal.

2. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall (pictured above) is surrounded in history as well as natural beauty. A UNESCO World heritage Site, this magnificent Roman frontier stretches across 80 miles from the coast of Cumbria to Wallsend in Newcastle upon Tyne. Hadrian’s Wall offers many places to explore and things to do including museums and forts the kids will love exploring. Although much of the site is free to explore, check the English Heritage website for admission prices to the forts and other ruins. You can also enjoy many scenic walks or cycle routes in and around the area with plenty of relaxing pubs and tea rooms nearby.

3. Walby Farm Park

Located just east of the M6 near Carlisle Airport, Walby Farm Park is a fun and educational day. As a working farm, there are lots of animals to meet, such as lambs and ponies, as well as a JCB digger sand pit, play area, go-karts and much more! Inside the ‘Play Barn’ is a huge play area with a 24 foot drop slide and a ball pit. There are a number of events held throughout the year, including ‘Summer Shenanigans’ where kids can get involved in nature walks, craft days and flower planting as well as other themed events during Halloween, Bonfire Night and Christmas. Open all year, a family ticket to Walby Farm Park is around £28.

4. St Bees Beach

St Bee’s Beach is a scenic and tranquil spot to spend a day. Kids will love exploring the soft red sands and rock pools full of interesting life, while adults will appreciate the stunning views of the sea. Holidaymakers may even catch a glimpse of a Black Guillemot or a Puffin in the nature reserve! Parking is easy and there is a lovely tea room where you can enjoy delicious ice cream. Just 15 minutes away is the town of Whitehaven where you’ll find plenty of other things to see and do too. A children’s play area can be found near the beach as well as several campsites.

5. South Tyndale Railway

The South Tyndale Railway is England’s highest narrow-gauge railway making daily journeys 3.5 miles northwards from Alston to Kirkhaugh and Lintley stations in Northumberland. Family return tickets range from £18 to £23 depending on the journey you take. There is a café and gift shop at the station. Alston itself is a charming and quaint market town and also the highest above sea level in England! It has lovely cobbled streets and a number of specialist shops selling local produce and unique gifts.

6. Solway Aviation Museum

Step back in time and experience the spectacular aircraft of post-war Britain that entered service with the Royal Air Force during the 1950’s. Various aircraft on display include a Canberra, a Lightning and, the biggest of them all, a Vulcan! Kids will love climbing into the huge cockpit and feeling like a pilot! Inside the museum, you can visit the Engine Hall and other exhibits revealing interesting photographs and aircraft equipment. Located in Carlisle, the Solway Aviation Museum is open from April to October and is run by friendly and enthusiastic volunteers. Entry is around £11 for a family.

7. South Lakes Wild Animal Park

In Dalton just 20 minutes from Lake Windermere is the fantastic South Lakes Wild Animal Park. Open every day, kids will love getting close to the variety of rare and endangered animals including giraffes, monkeys, kangaroos and penguins! Adult tickets are £13.50 and children are £8.00, but don’t miss out on savings by using your Tesco clubcard vouchers! At Christmas, the park turns into a magical winter wonderland with thousands of fairy lights and a full size ice rink. It’s the perfect time to visit as there are a number of festive activities to take part in!

8. Lakeland Maize Maze

Open every day and weekends from April to October, Lakeland Maize Maze is fun for all! Situated on a working farm, the huge 8 acre maze is a unique opportunity to do some exploring. Wind your way around the footpaths to find the exit but watch out for dead ends! There’s a much smaller and less challenging Mini Maze for the little ones as well as a number of other farmyard adventures to be enjoyed on site. A family ticket to the maze is around £24.

A trip to Cumbria makes an excellent choice for a family holiday. There are a variety of attractions that will be sure to keep both parents and kids entertained. Located in the Lake District, there are many camping and caravan sites to choose from where you can stay and immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.