10p swims for Cumberland children 

All schoolchildren aged up to 16 years old from the Cumberland area will be able to go for a swim in a choice of five indoor pools for only 10p over the Easter school holidays (26 - 30 May). 

The discounted scheme has been put in place by Cumberland Council, with the support of GLL and Wigton Baths Trust.  

The council scheme will offer discounted swimming opportunities throughout the half-term holiday. 

It will be available at the following leisure sites at allocated times during the May half-term school holidays:  

• The Sands Centre (Carlisle): Weekdays (except Bank Holiday Monday) 10am - 10.50am and Sundays (25 May and 1 June) 10am - 10.50am. 

• Cockermouth Leisure Centre: Monday - Friday, 1pm - 2pm. 

• Workington Leisure Centre: Weekdays (except Friday) 11am - 11.50am. 

• Copeland Pool and Fitness Centre (Whitehaven): Weekdays (except Wednesday) 1pm - 1.50pm, Saturday 31 May 12pm - 1pm, Sunday 1 June 10am - 11am. 

• Wigton Baths: Monday 26 May: 10am - 11am. Tuesday 27 May 11.15am - 12.15pm and 3.15pm - 4.15pm. Wednesday 28 May: 9.15am - 10.15am and 3pm - 4pm. Thursday 29 May: 10.15am - 11.15am and 3.30pm - 4.30pm. Friday 30 May: 10am - 11am. Saturday 31 May: 10am - 11.30am.  

Get inspired this Half Term with a host of engaging art and craft experiences for all ages! Don’t miss the Gallery Highlights Tours of Winifred Nicholson: Cumbrian Rag Rugs on 24 and 31 May. Led by expert guides, these fascinating tours are included with admission, but advance booking is essential. 

On Sunday 25 May, join us for our brand-new monthly Make + Create Sundays—a relaxed, drop-in session from 1–4pm in the new City Hall Studio. Enjoy hands-on arty fun perfect for kids (and grown-ups too!). These creative sessions now take place on the fourth Sunday of every month. 

From 27 May to 1 June, drop in between 1–4pm for our May Half Term Family Crafts, featuring a range of fun, nature-themed activities inspired by the new Carlisle Gallery—create Paper Plate Seagulls, Egg Carton Whales, Felt Biscuit Magnets, and more! 

For older kids aged 12–15, Arts Explorers on Saturday 31 May (1–4pm) offers a chance to experiment, express and enjoy creative freedom in a friendly space supported by artists and staff. It’s free, but spaces are limited—so don’t forget to sign up online in advance! 

Treat the whole family to unforgettable theatre experiences this May half-term. On Monday 26 May at 2pm, don’t miss the delightful show;  Cinderella Ice Cream Seller. This playful twist on the classic fairy tale tells the story of how Cinderella scooped her way from rags to riches to become the queen of the kingdom’s favourite ice cream empire. Join Talvi and Caldwell—her charming employees—as they share this magical tale packed with music, heart, and sweet surprises. Perfect for children and families, this show is guaranteed to melt hearts and tickle taste buds! 

Then, on Wednesday 28 May at 2pm, join Storytime: A Big Egg, a charming family musical based on Steven Lee’s beloved picture book. Follow siblings Jack and Molly as they discover just how big an egg can get—and what surprises may be waiting inside! With live action, animation, puppetry, and plenty of magic, this enchanting show is sure to delight young audiences. After the performance, don’t miss the chance to meet the cast and snap a photo to remember the day. 

Get ready for a magical mix of community spirit, live entertainment, and hands-on fun with Kirkgate Arts and Heritage this May! 

Start your half-term off right at the Kirkgate Monthly Market on Saturday 24 May from 10am to 1pm. Held in their downstairs space, this market is packed with local makers, unique crafts, pre-loved treasures, books, DVDs, toys, games, and even seasonal plants. Enjoy a tasty treat and a cuppa as you browse—free entry for all! 

For fans of the fantastic and mysterious, don’t miss The Great Baldini’s Magic Cabaret—a theatrical magic show like no other! Combining the best of his hit shows ILLUSIONATI and SHOWMAN, Baldini takes you on a thrilling journey of illusion, intrigue and ultimate escape.  Catch the show at: 

Bassenthwaite Parish Room – Thursday 29 May, 7pm

Globe Hall, Ireby – Friday 30 May, 7pm

St Bees Village Hall – Saturday 31 May, 7.30pm 

On Sunday 1 June from 11am, Kirkgate celebrates its 30th Anniversary with a stunning Picnic at the Castle. Set against the backdrop of Cockermouth Castle, enjoy live music, a literary tour with Jessie McMeekin, close-up magic from The Great Baldini, and indulge in a delicious afternoon tea picnic with prosecco. You can also book a castle tour led by Civic Trust guides, and learn about local history.  

Theatre By The Lake has got a brilliant line-up of imaginative theatre experiences that promise laughter, creativity, and memorable moments for all ages! 

On Wednesday 28 May, catch Splat—a joyful, physical comedy about art, mess, and collaboration, with performances at 11.30am and 2pm. With no spoken words, Splat is perfect for all audiences, including those who are deaf, and is sure to leave everyone smiling.

From Friday 30 May to Sunday 1 June, don’t miss Three Little Vikings, a bold and funny tale of bravery, teamwork, and finding your voice. Created by award-winning author and illustrator Bethan Woollvin, this empowering story follows three fearless Viking girls as they uncover the mystery behind their troubled village. Can they convince the clueless Chieftain and save the day? 

Visit Carlisle Castle and Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life for the annual Military Festival on Saturday 31 May and Sunday 1 June. 

Wander through multi-period encampments, get up close to military vehicles, and watch live re-enactments, including thrilling displays of medieval combat from Historia Normannis, complete with 12th-century knights, militia, and craftsmen. The kids will love the dedicated Kid’s Zone, full of hands-on crafts and dressing-up fun. 

This immersive event is included with standard entry to Carlisle Castle. Just turn up and pay on the day for a weekend of history, heritage, and hands-on family fun. 

Get ready for a wild and wonderful week of family fun with some unmissable outdoor adventures and animal-themed activities across Cumbria! 

At Whinlatter Forest, join everyone’s favourite duo for Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit! This tail-wagging trail is perfect for dog lovers—take on fun challenges, solve clues, and enjoy quality time with your furry friend in the great outdoors. 

In Whitehaven, head to the Play Trail with the National Trust at Haig Pit Car Park on Monday 26 & Tuesday 27 May from 12pm to 4pm. This free event is packed with classic outdoor games like sack races, volleyball, badminton and more.

Meanwhile, from Tuesday 27 to Saturday 31 May, the Lake District Wildlife Park is hosting Bug & Beastie Week. Meet fascinating creatures, take part in games, and discover some jaw-dropping facts. 

And don’t miss World Otter Day on Thursday 29 May at the Lake District Wildlife Park! Celebrate these incredible animals with special feeding sessions, enrichment activities, and otter-themed quizzes and talks.

Whether you're walking with Wallace, racing with friends, or getting close to critters, there's something for every nature-loving family this half term! 

Add a splash of colour to your school break with a special Stained Glass-Inspired Sun Catcher Workshop at Carlisle Cathedral on Tuesday 27 May at 2pm. Held in the Undercroft, this craft session invites children to design and make their own vibrant sun catchers, inspired by the stunning stained glass windows of the Cathedral. 

It’s a perfect way for families to get creative together—just £4 per child, with accompanying adults free. All materials are provided, and every young artist will take home a beautiful decoration to brighten up their windows. 

Ideal for children of all ages (with an adult by their side), this colourful activity combines art, history, and fun in a truly inspiring setting. 

Get ready for a week of non-stop fun at Walby Farm Park from 24 May to 1 June, as May Mayhem takes over with a hive of activity the whole family will love! Located just outside Carlisle, Walby is the go-to destination for energetic kids, curious minds, and outdoor-loving families. 

This year’s May Mayhem is bee-themed, and your day ticket includes everything from The Bees Knees Interactive Show (25–30 May), full of songs and silliness, to hands-on workshops where little ones can craft bee crowns, build bug hotels, and plant pollinator-friendly seeds in The Potting Shed. You’ll even get to meet Walby’s beekeeper and hear buzzing tales from the hive! 

Don’t miss the foam parties (weather permitting!) and all the usual Walby favourites, including the indoor Adventure Play Barn, tractor rides, animal encounters, and outdoor fun galore. 

All activities are included in your day ticket—so book now and make this half term one to remember! 

Celebrate 150 years of steam-powered memories with a one-of-a-kind experience on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. As part of the anniversary festivities, families are invited to join the Anniversary Train & Guided Walk on Saturday 24 May—a perfect blend of heritage, scenery, and hands-on discovery. 

Hop aboard a chartered private steam train for a return journey along this stunning seven-mile route—around 40 minutes each way—through the heart of the Lake District. Along the way, enjoy entry to the Ravenglass Railway Museum, where history comes to life for all ages. 

The adventure continues at Dalegarth Station, where you’ll set off on a guided walk to the charming village of Boot. With expert guides leading the way, it’s a fantastic chance for families to explore the landscape, learn local stories, and stretch their legs in a beautiful setting. 

Don’t miss this unforgettable journey through time—ideal for railway enthusiasts, walkers, and families looking for something extra special this May Half Term. 

Looking for a moment of calm during your Half Term adventures? Yoga in the Park invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect—with nature, with movement, and with yourself. 

Led by welcoming, qualified yoga teachers, these outdoor sessions take place on the stunning lawns of Bitts Park in Carlisle and Harris Park in Cockermouth every Saturday from 24 May through to 30 August. 

No yoga experience? No problem. These all-level classes are designed for every body, newbies and seasoned yogis alike. The perfect opportunity for those who have always wanted to try yoga. Mats can be provided, just wear comfy clothes you can move in. 

On Monday 26 and Tuesday 27 May, join the National Trust and All or Nothing for a special celebration marking the 100 year anniversary of Crow Park. 

Expect the unexpected with aerialist performances by The Swings throughout the day and get involved with interactive swing installations, experiencing the thrill yourself.