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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 (30 March - 10 April).
The discounted scheme has been put in place by Cumberland Council, with the support of Everyone Active, GLL and Wigton Baths Trust.
The council scheme will offer discounted swimming opportunities throughout the two weeks.
It will be available at the following leisure sites at allocated times during the Easter school holidays:
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The Sands Centre (Carlisle): Weekdays (except bank holidays), 10am - 10.50am.
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Cockermouth Leisure Centre: Weekdays, 1pm - 1.50pm.
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Workington Leisure Centre: Monday 30 March and Wednesday 1 - Friday 3 April, 10am - 10.50am. Tuesday 31 March, 1pm - 1.50pm. Monday 6 - Friday 10 April, 10am - 10.50am.
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Copeland Pool and Fitness Centre (Whitehaven): Weekdays (except Wednesday 1 and 8 April) 1pm - 1.50pm.
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Wigton Baths: Monday 30 March, 3pm - 4pm. Tuesday 31 March and 7 April, 11.30am - 12.30pm and 3.45pm - 4.45pm. Wednesday 1 April and Wednesday 8 April, 3.15pm - 4.15pm. Thursday 2 and Thursday 9 April, 3pm - 4pm. Friday 10 April, 11am - 12pm.
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Coming Up This February Half Term:
If your child gets means-tested free school meals, they can join this spring’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme. It’s packed with fun sessions, and every day includes a free meal.
This Easter, children can enjoy a brilliant mix of activities, learn new things and stay active.
Quick and easy online booking
Spaces are limited and filling fast
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Carlisle city centre is gearing up for the much‑anticipated return of the Carlisle International Market, an open‑air shopping and food experience that draws thousands of visitors each year.
The open-air event will be held in Carlisle city centre between Thursday 2 and Monday 6 April.
Organised by Market Place Europe, the award-winning International Market is supported by Cumberland Council, shoppers will be spoilt for choice with a huge mix of authentic continental treats in the city centre.
Stalls will be open between:
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Thursday 2 April: 9am - 6pm.
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Friday 3 April: 9am - 6pm.
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Saturday 4 April: 9am - 6pm.
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Sunday 5 April: 10am - 5pm.
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Bank holiday Monday, 6 April: 10am - 5pm.
More than 40 traders will be taking part bringing an array of global treats to the city centre from unique arts and crafts, fine foods and delis to some amazing mouth-watering street foods.
Explore Cumberland's Markets
The School Holidays is the perfect time to explore the wonderful local markets across Cumberland, offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Carlisle’s Friday market will continue as usual on Friday 3 April and will be based at the top of English Street. The following Friday's they will return to the Greenmarket.
For your weekly shopping, Carlisle Market Hall is open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 5pm, while Keswick Market welcomes visitors every Thursday and Saturday. Wigton Market is open Fridays, Carlisle Outdoor Market runs every Friday, and Workington Market is open Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Visitors can enjoy wandering through a vibrant selection of stalls filled with fresh local produce, handmade crafts, unique gifts, clothing, and an array of other delights from our fantastic local traders.
Whether you’re hunting for fresh local produce, unique crafts, or simply enjoying a lively market atmosphere, Cumberland's markets are a must-visit this Easter Holidays!
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Carlisle’s city centre will be filled with creativity, ambition and live entertainment when the Teenage Market returns on Saturday 28 March 2026.
Hosted by Cumberland Council, with funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the event will take place within the pedestrianised area of the city centre. The market will showcase up to 20 stalls run by young traders aged between 8 and 25, alongside a programme of live performances from local young singers, musicians and dancers.
The Teenage Market offers a unique shopping experience, giving visitors the chance to discover original, locally made products while supporting emerging young entrepreneurs. It is a national initiative set up to champion the next generation of market traders. Further information and to register to take part in future markets visit is the Teenage Market. From homemade cakes and personalised gifts to 3D printed designs and bespoke crafted items, shoppers are guaranteed not to leave empty handed.
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Carlisle Farmers Market – Saturday 4 April
Supporting local artisan producers, crafters and artists Carlisle's monthly farmers' market can be found in the grounds of the Cathedral on the first Saturday every month, from 9am to 2pm.
Regular attendees include Hallsford Farm for beautiful beef, lamb and pork direct from their farm at nearby Hethersgill; handmade breads and cakes from Warwick Bridge Corn Mill; delicious treats and homemade preserves from Christine’s Kitchen; local cheesemakers, scented candles, unique art and crafts, plus all sorts of other goodies!
New traders join each month so be sure to check out the market to see what’s new, or to pick up an old favourite.
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Families across Cumberland can enjoy free Easter holiday activities at local Family Hubs.
Sessions include creative play, crafts and fun activities designed to help children learn, socialise and enjoy time together during the school holidays. Activities are welcoming, friendly and run by experienced teams who support families all year round.
Places are free but booking is required, and sessions are available in different locations across Cumberland.
The school holidays are a great time to enjoy a visit to The Beacon, with a mix of exhibitions and hands‑on activities for families to enjoy together.
From 28 March, the Harbour Gallery hosts I Grew Up 90s, an exhibition that takes visitors back to a decade full of familiar sights, sounds and cultural moments. Curated by collector and cultural commentator Matt Fox, the exhibition features more than 200 iconic objects and artworks, offering a nostalgic look at the Nineties that will spark memories and conversation across generations.
Throughout the Easter holidays, children can also take part in Beakid sessions. Get into the springtime spirit on Monday 30 March, Wednesday 1 April and Friday 3 April with some Easter crafts, or join in to Build it, Code it, Race it! on Wednesday 8 and Friday 10 April, where children will work in pairs to build their own LEGO® WeDo race car and learn how to programme it to move and race.
On Tuesday 31 March, children can join a glass fusing workshop with Roxanne Denny of RD Glass. Participants will learn about different types of glass before designing and creating their own bowl or wall hanging, with all materials and guidance provided.
Pet Encounters take place on Thursday 2 and 9 April at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, offering a hands‑on opportunity to meet and learn about a range of fascinating animals.
With a major exhibition and a range of creative and interactive activities, The Beacon offers plenty to enjoy this Easter holiday.
Tullie offers plenty of opportunities to get creative and enjoy time together this Easter holidays, with a varied programme of activities for families and young people.
From 28 March to 12 April, Miffy Make and Takes bring a playful twist to the ever‑popular crafternoons. Families can drop in between 1pm and 4pm to enjoy a different Miffy‑themed craft each session, from finger puppets and badges to pop‑ups and simple book‑making. One session even invites children to help decorate the museum windows. These relaxed activities run every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday in the City Hall Studio.
Young people aged 12 to 17 can get involved through the regular Studio Saturdays on 28 March. This is an art studio drop-in session for teens to take some time out, have a go and experiment with new creative techniques using different forms of inspiration.
Animal handling fun arrives with Zoobidoo on Wednesday 1 and 8 April. These interactive sessions give children the chance to meet a range of fascinating creatures, with timings tailored for younger children and mixed‑age groups later in the morning.
Families can also enjoy a screening of the much‑loved film Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey on 9 April, followed by Moorhouse Magic on 10 April, bringing an entertaining mix of magic, balloons and puppetry to round off the holidays.
Wednesday 1 April – 1pm to 3pm at Rosehill Theatre, Whitehaven
Thursday 2 April – 1pm to 3pm at Cleator Moor Youth and Community Centre
Join Handpicked productions for a colourful creative session inspired by traditional Polish Pajak - beautiful hanging mobiles made from paper, straw, and decoration.
Usually created for winter celebrations, we’ll be reimagining them for springtime, filling them with bright colours, patterns, and playful shapes.
This family-friendly workshop is all about making together. Whether you’re twisting, threading, cutting, or decorating, you’ll create your own joyful hanging piece to take home and brighten your space.
Rosehill is celebrating the Easter holidays with a programme of events that bring together creativity, theatre and relaxed family fun.
The Easter celebrations begin with the Rosehill Easter Market on Saturday 4 April. Across the building and courtyard, visitors can browse a carefully curated mix of stalls from independent artists, designers, makers and producers, offering everything from ceramics and homeware to jewellery, gifts and small‑batch food and drink. Alongside the market, families can enjoy creative activities, freshly prepared hot food and a selection of drinks from the bar. The day also includes free screenings of Peter Rabbit and Peter Rabbit 2 in the auditorium.
Family theatre continues on Tuesday 7 April with The Bubble Show 2: More Bubbles!, a visually stunning performance that brings the legends of Bubbleland to life using soap, water, light and music. Filled with bubble sculptures, puppetry and special effects, the show offers a magical experience for audiences of all ages.
On Wednesday 8 April, Rosehill invites families to tumble down the rabbit hole at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and Alice in Wonderland screening. The afternoon begins with a playful tea party before settling in for a special screening of the much‑loved animated film, creating a memorable half‑term treat for children and grown‑ups alike.
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Bittersweet: a tribute to Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Rodrigo – 28 March 6.30pm
Pop Showdown: BITTER SWEET Tribute to Sabrina Carpenter & Olivia Rodrigo!
BITTER SWEET is an incredible tribute concert to pop mega-stars Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Rodrigo.
Carpenters and Livvies alike will rejoice in a spectacular show packed with pop smash-hits, heartbreak anthems, and the undeniable thrill of friendly rivalry.
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Interactive Stories For Families with Children ages 3 to 8
28 March from 11.30am to 12.30pm
Come together with family for some quality quiet time listening to traditional folk tales.
Bring a blanket and snuggle up together for some cosy interactive stories that will engage younger children with actions, sound effects and repetition.
Best suited for families for children ages 3 to 8.
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Friday 10 April - 7pm
Out of the Box is a multi-award-winning family show delighting audiences across the UK; an hour of joyful chaos, jaw-dropping skill, and irresistible fun.
Darryl J Carrington transforms everyday objects into extraordinary adventures. A toothbrush stars in a balancing act, a string sparks a heist, and a tea party lands on someone’s head!
With over 20 years of circus and clowning experience, Darryl’s silent comedy blends world-class juggling, inventive physical theatre, and heartwarming audience interaction..
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The Easter holidays at Kirkgate Arts offer a lively mix of markets, theatre and hands‑on creativity, with something to enjoy for all ages.
The programme begins on 28 March with the regular Kirkgate Monthly Market. Visitors can explore a wide range of stalls selling original creations from local makers and crafters alongside pre‑loved household items, books, music, toys and games.
Families can also look forward to The Mystery of the Pirate Lagoon, a comic radio play presented live on stage by Arts Out West. Audiences are invited to join the crew of The Prospero on a swashbuckling adventure, helping to create sound effects, take part in scenes and unleash their inner pirate. Performances take place at Kirkgate Arts on 9 April and at The Victory Hall in Dalston on 11 April.
Creative workshops continue on 10 and 11 April with Crafts@Kirkgate block printing sessions led by Emily from Market Place Print Studio. These family‑friendly workshops invite participants to experiment with hand‑carved printing blocks inspired by animals, plants and shapes, learning how to apply ink and create bold patterns and imaginative scenes.
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Join Wordsworth House for a family-friendly Easter trail with fun activities for you to do along the way. Complete the trail and earn your chocolate egg at the end!
The trail takes place between Saturday 30 March and Sunday 12 April 2026 (closed Thursday, Friday and Saturdays), from 10.30am to 5pm, with last entry at 4pm, so come along and explore the beautiful garden of Wordsworth House.
Prices are £3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and a dairy or vegan/Free From* chocolate egg.
*Suitable for people with milk, egg, gluten, peanut and tree nut allergies.
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The Easter holidays at Theatre by the Lake offers a rich mix of storytelling, music and family‑friendly theatre, with performances to enjoy throughout the Easter break.
Running daily until 18 April, Lark Rise to Candleford brings a much‑loved story to the stage in a new adaptation filled with warmth and nostalgia. Woven together with original music performed live by an ensemble cast, the production explores cherished memories, finding your wings and the ties that keep us connected to home.
On Monday 30 March, So Unfair offers an interactive theatre experience for children aged seven to ten and their grown‑ups. Part science demonstration and part playful adventure, the show invites the audience to take on challenges, explore ideas of fairness and help save the day, all delivered with humour, audience participation and more than a few bad dad jokes.
On Tuesday 31 March, Hay! takes to the stage in a production filled with puppetry, music, clowning and movement. With just one word spoken throughout, the show follows Geenie the scarecrow as he comes to life and discovers the wonders of the natural world, telling a gentle story about growing up, dreaming big and finding the confidence to spread your wings.
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CUFC CST will be hosting activities across Cumberland during the Easter holidays.
Sign your child up for Soccer Schools or Gymnastics and Dance Camps:
Carlisle Soccer School: Harraby 3G Astroturf
Camp One: Monday 30 March – Thursday 2 April from 9am to 2pm
Camp Two: Tuesday 7 to Friday 10 April from 9am to 2pm
Carlisle Gymnastics and Dance Camps: Harraby 3G Sports Hall
Camp One: Monday 30 March to Thursday 2 April from 9am to 2pm
Camp Two: Tuesday 7 to Friday 10 April from 9am to 2pm
Whitehaven Soccer School: Whitehaven Football Club, Coach Road Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2 April from 9am to 2pm
Maryport Soccer School: Netherhall Community Sports Centre Tuesday 7 to Friday 10 April from 9am to 2pm
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Teddy Bears Picnic – 26 March to 26 April
Join the museum bears for a Teddy Bears Picnic fit for an emperor!
At the Roman Army Museum, Emperor Ted needs your help to find all the food he needs for his picnic. Will you and your teddy bear be able help? Follow the trail around the museum and once you’ve found all the picnic food make sure to snap a selfie with Emperor Ted.
Bring your teddy bear dressed up as a Roman Emperor. Download this activity sheet for ideas on how to get your teddy bear fit to rule the empire.
Don’t forget to collect your prize afterwards!
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This Easter holiday, join Birdoswald Roman Fort for a fun-filled adventure quest!
Follow the Easter trail, hunt for eggs and answer questions along the way to earn a delicious chocolate reward.
The quest runs every day throughout the school holidays and is just £2 per child for both members and non-members. This is in addition to your admission ticket.
There's no need to book in advance - simply pay and join the quest when you arrive.
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Visit Walby Farm Park for a chocolate-filled, laughter-packed Easter Eggstravaganza 2026 - with brand-new live shows, sweet surprises, adorable lambs and all your favourite farm fun included in your ticket.
Spring is one of the most magical times to visit… and this year, it’s going to be extra sweet.
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Saturday 4 April
Over the Easter holidays the Lake District Wildlife Park will have easter crafts and educational games in their Yurt.
Join in and hunt for the golden egg. Find it and you could win a chocolatey treat!
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Carlisle Cathedral is hosting a programme of creative workshops this Easter, offering families and young people the chance to enjoy hands‑on activities in the Cathedral’s Undercroft.
On Saturday 28 March, children can create a handmade greeting card using fresh spring flowers, designing something personal to take home or give as a gift.
The creative sessions continue on Friday 10 April with a workshop where children paint a mini vase and arrange a fresh flower posy to place inside, creating a decorative keepsake or present.
Both sessions are aimed at primary and secondary school‑aged children, with all children accompanied by an adult.
On Saturday 11 April, adults and secondary school‑aged children can take part in a block‑printing workshop to design and create a unique cushion cover using a range of printing blocks and colours. Under‑18s must attend with an adult.
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Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 March
Saturday 3 to Monday 6 April
Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April
Muncaster is inviting families to enjoy a full day of Easter fun, with activities included alongside access to its gardens, castle and attractions.
Easter tickets include entry to the gardens, castle, Hawk and Owl Centre, daily flying displays, Enchanted Trail, play areas, weapons hall have‑a‑go sessions, The Stables Café and gift shop. Children’s tickets also include a programme of Easter activities running throughout the day.
Highlights include the return of Protect the Egg and The Big Egg Drop, where children design a protective shield for their egg before testing it with a dramatic drop from the castle roof.
The popular Big Muncaster Egg Hunt also returns, with families setting off to find a decorated pebble that can be exchanged for an Easter treat, alongside an Easter Spring Trail through the gardens.
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Hop aboard the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway this spring and enjoy a wonderful family day out filled with seasonal fun and heritage charm, with activities taking place in the Ravenglass Railway Museum.
This Easter, families can enjoy a special trail as they travel through stunning Lakeland landscapes on our historic steam railway. Keep little ones entertained throughout the journey with a themed challenge, guaranteed to make your day even more magical.
Pick up your Easter quiz sheet, explore the railway, find the clues and complete the challenge for the chance to win a tasty chocolate egg prize.
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Easter Little Engineers Days
8 and 9 April
Bring curious minds, creative imaginations and a love of steam along to the Easter Little Engineers’ Days at Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, a special seasonal event hosted by Chris Vine, author of the much-loved Peter’s Railway books.
These engaging Easter sessions are perfect for budding engineers, young train enthusiasts and families looking for something a little different during the school holidays.
Children can look forward to hands-on railway learning, exciting demonstrations, storytelling, and themed Easter activities, all designed to inspire interest in engineering, railways and problem-solving in a fun and friendly way. It’s a brilliant opportunity to learn, play, and discover more about how trains work.
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Friday 3 to Monday 6 April
Families are invited to hop into the Easter holidays at Stephney Farm in Seascale, where the Stephney Farm Easter Eggvent, offering a fun‑filled day out in the fresh air.
Children can climb aboard the barrel train, get up close to the animals and enjoy exploring their surroundings, before setting off on a scavenger hunt packed with Easter surprises.
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Families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of Easter fun at Egremont Castle when the Friends of Egremont Castle host their Easter Event on Sunday 5 April, from 1pm to 3pm.
Younger visitors can meet the Easter Bunny and take part in an egg hunt, while a tombola and a range of fundraising stalls provide plenty of chances to support local groups and pick up something special.
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There’s a packed programme lined up for The Sands Centre.
Following the completion of the roof repairs, the auditorium will reopen this summer.
Upcoming events include:
The Drifters - Wednesday 17 June 2026
The Drifters are back on tour in the UK performing all their classic hits including ‘Saturday Night at the Movies', ‘You’re More Than A Number,’ ‘Come on Over to My Place’, ‘Under the Boardwalk’, ‘Kissin’ In The Back Row’ and many more!
The legendary group have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, performed for the President of the United States and listed among the Greatest Artists of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine.
Under the guidance of Tina Treadwell (daughter of the group’s original founders, George & Faye Treadwell) The Drifters have enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in recent years with multiple successful UK tours including headline shows in major arenas and, most notably, the world famous Royal Albert Hall in London for the first ever time in the group’s glittering career.
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K-Pop All Stars - Thursday 18 June 2026 to Friday 19 June 2026
Ride the K-pop wave influencing the World live on stage! From stadium-shaking anthems to breathtaking choreography, K-Pop All Stars celebrates the global phenomenon redefining pop culture.
With explosive performances of today’s biggest K-pop hits from BlackPink, NewJeans, Katseye, and BTS and spectacular numbers inspired by the smash-hit film K-pop Demon Hunters, this high-energy tribute brings the thrill of Seoul’s stages to life.
With a sea of light sticks glowing and the crowd moving as one, you’ll feel the music and the electrifying energy of K-Pop All Stars in this live, immersive experience!
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Strange, But True Crime - Thursday 25 June 2026
Join us for a stranger than fiction night of true crime with ex-forensics lecturer Jennifer Rees who explores the world's most shocking and unbelievable cases.
Jennifer's previous theatre tour, The Psychology of Serial Killers, was a huge hit with audiences, selling out across the UK and Ireland to rave reviews.
In this new show, Jennifer explores stories such as the serial killer who gained work in law enforcement whilst on the run - and ended up hunting himself; the female, balloon-carrying killer clown; serial killers on game shows - how their appearances led to their identification, and many more stories. A fascinating look at the strangest, but true crime stories, perfect for fans of true crime documentaries and podcasts.
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Rumours of Fleetwood Mac - Saturday 27 June 2026
Personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member, Mick Fleetwood, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac is the ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most remarkable groups.
Channelling the spirit of Fleetwood Mac at their very best, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac offers a unique opportunity for fans, both old and new, to rediscover the songs and performances that have ensured Fleetwood Mac’s place as one of the most loved groups of all time.
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A James Bond Concert Spectacular - Sunday 28 June 2026
The Music’s James Bond Concert Spectacular is the world’s finest and most critically acclaimed tribute to the music of James Bond.
Celebrating more than 20 years as the first original and pioneering Bond concert, they are known for their stirring emotional and adrenaline-fueled performances, mixed in with superb musicianship and flair.
Indeed, every fan club around the world recognises them as the best and finest performances of the songs since the originals. Focusing not only on theme songs, the show also pays homage to the complete canon covering chase music, incidental cues and suites from across the series.
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Zog - Tuesday 30 June 2026 to Thursday 2 July 2026
Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Large in size and keen in nature, Zog is eager to win a golden star at Madam Dragon’s school, where dragons learn all the things that dragons need to know. Zog tries so very hard, perhaps too hard, and he bumps, burns and roars his way through years one, two and three. Luckily, the plucky Princess Pearl patches him up ready to face his biggest challenge yet…a duel with knight, Sir Gadabout the Great!
The smash-hit stage adaptation from Freckle Productions (the team behind Zog and the Flying Doctors and Stick Man) is back and promises to be bigger, brighter and more roar-some than ever before! With lively songs from Joe Stilgoe and directed by Emma Kilbey, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog is a magical production for all ages.
Age suitability: Most suitable for 3+ but all ages welcome.
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Nikita Kuzmin - Supernova - Tuesday 7 July 2026
Strictly Come Dancing finalist and fan favourite Nikita Kuzmin takes centre stage in the explosive new dance spectacular Supernova, touring the UK in June and July 2026. Created in collaboration with world-renowned choreographer and BAFTA award recipient Jason Gilkison and presented by international dance sensation Burn the Floor. Supernova is a show fuelled by the firepower of world class performers and creatives from around the world. Expect an evening of electrifying entertainment where artistry meets innovation, and Nikita’s trademark charm, power and charisma shine brighter than ever. Get ready - the Supernova is about to explode!
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A bumper programme of open-air theatre events continues in Carlisle this year.
Performances by The Pantaloons theatre company will be held at Talkin Tarn Country Park, Brampton, CA8 1HN.
Sherlock Holmes & The Hound Of The Baskervilles
Thursday 18 June 2026 from 7pm
How can one show possibly contain so much action and adventure? Elementary, my dear!
Will detective duo Holmes and Watson discover the deadly secret of the Baskerville family curse before it strikes again? Or are they barking up the wrong tree? Find out in this delightfully inventive show that will have you yelping with excitement and howling with laugher.
Features live music, audience interaction and more mystery than you can shake a magnifying glass at.
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The (Almost) Complete History Of Britain
Thursday 16 July 2026 from 7pm
Mud, blood and stiff upper-lips! Join a breathless race through the centuries in this delightfully inventive show that tells the entire story of Britain in under 2 hours.
Have you ever wanted to see the life of Henry VIII told as a romantic comedy or the tale of the Spanish Armada reimagined as a light operetta? Probably not. But that won't stop The Pantaloons retelling great moments from the country's past in a variety of surprising genres! Featuring live music, audience interaction and wild historical inaccuracy.
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Twelfth Night
Thursday 13 August 2026 from 7pm
Get in a fight. Cross-dress. Throw on some yellow stockings. Love can make you do the funniest things…!
The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present their own brand of Shakespearean mayhem in the Bard's comedy of fools, duels and dual identities.
Family-friendly fun with live music and audience participation.
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