With just over one year to go until the Tour de France visits Cumbria, Cumberland Council is encouraging residents to sign up to be volunteer and be part of the historic event.
A Stage One finish in Carlisle and a Stage Two start in Keswick is confirmed for the 2027 Tour De France.
Set to be the largest free sporting spectacle in British history, the men’s Tour de France will begin in Edinburgh on Friday 2 July 2027, with the opening stage finishing in Carlisle the same day, before stage two travels from Keswick on Saturday 3 July 2027 - through the Lake District and Lancashire to finish on The Strand in Liverpool the same day.
The Tour de France (TdF) is the world’s biggest annual sporting event. The race attracts 10-12 million live spectators each year. It is broadcast on television in over 180 countries and has a TV viewership of 150m in Europe alone.
The 2014 Grand Départ in Yorkshire generated an estimated £131 million in economic benefits.
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Come and see the Tour de France trophy at Taste Cumbria Maryport
Visitors to Cumberland Council’s Taste Cumbria event in Maryport on Sunday 9 August 2026 will get a chance to see an international cycling trophy - set to be presented to the host of the next Tour de France Grand Départ in 2027.
As part of the build-up to the Grand Départ coming to Cumberland next July, there is an opportunity to find out more about the Tour de France as part of a planned programme of Trophy Tour visits.
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Check out our new Tour de France website
Help us welcome the world in July 2027 as the Tour de France Grand Départ comes to the Cumberland area.
The Tour de France is one of the world’s most iconic sporting events. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase our landscapes, communities and local pride to a global audience.
Be part of history and experience the event!
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Stay Up to Date
Excitement is building ahead of the Tour de France coming to Cumbria. To make sure you don't miss any news, announcements or event updates, sign up for our dedicated Tour de France newsletter. You'll receive the latest information straight to your inbox as we count down to the big day.
The countdown is on to the 2026 Lloyds The Tour Of Britain Women.
On Wednesday 19 August, Cockermouth will welcome the world's top riders for the start and finish of Stage One, marking the first time the town has hosted the women’s race.
The riders will tackle the longest stage of the entire tour, covering almost 159km through some of Cumberland’s most stunning landscapes. The route takes in Whitehaven, Workington, Maryport, Silloth and Wigton, before a challenging final circuit around Clints Crags, Watch Hill and Ruddings Hill.
With coastal views, tough climbs, cobbled streets and nearly 2,000m of ascent, it promises to be an exciting day of racing as the battle begins for the first leader’s jersey of the 2026 tour.
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The Carlisle Teenage Market Summer Fest is happening this Saturday (25 July) in Carlisle City Centre from 10am to 3.30pm!   
If you're aged 8–25 and would like to find out more about getting involved in The Teenage Market, come along and have a chat with our friendly team. You'll spot them easily in their Teenage Market hoodies, which were specially designed by one of our talented traders, Millie from MJ Designs.
Millie has been part of the Teenage Market since the very beginning and her hoodie design is a fantastic example of the creativity and talent that our young traders bring to the event.
Milie said: I felt honoured to be asked to design the Teenage Market hoodies as I enjoy designing anything new and I felt proud when I saw the team wearing them. Taking part in various Teenage Market's over the years has meant a great deal to me and it has helped me boost my confidence and promote my small business which started merely as a sixth form project.
Come and say hello, learn more about the opportunities available, and see what the Teenage Market is all about!
The Teenage Market is also packing its bucket and spade and heading to the seaside for Taste of the Sea in Maryport on 8th and 9th August.
We're offering FREE trading spaces for young entrepreneurs aged 8–25 to showcase their products and be part of this fantastic event.
You can apply for a stall on Saturday 8th August, Sunday 9th August, or both days. If you wish to trade on both days, you'll need to complete two separate applications - one for Saturday and one for Sunday.
Spaces are limited, so don't miss your chance to trade and reach thousands of visitors!
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Cumberland Family Hub summer timetables are here. Pick up a printed copy from your local Family Hub or to see what's happening near you over the holidays.
There are lots of activities for families to enjoy, including Summer Fun sessions, Messy Babies, and drop in Play Space sessions. Booking required for Summer Fun and Messy Babies, email or phone the hub to book.
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Looking for something fun to do this summer for teens?
There are a series of free drop-in activities for young people aged 12 to 18, taking place at Family Hubs during the school holidays. Each session includes a mix of sports, games, music and activities, as well as a chance to relax, meet friends and enjoy free snacks.
There's no need to book, just come along and join in. Whether they're looking to get active, try something new or simply spend time with other young people, everyone is welcome.
Family Hub in the Port, Maryport, 12 August, 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Valley Family Hub, Whitehaven, 29 July, 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Chances Family Hub, Carlisle, 31 July & 4 August, 4.30pm to 5.30pm
Westfield Family Hub, Workington, 28 July & 4 August, 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Petteril Bank Family Hub, Carlisle, 30 July & 6 August, 4.30pm to 5.30pm
Wigton Family Hub, 5 August & 11 August, 4.30pm to 5.30pm
Egremont Hub, 27 July
Carlisle Youth Zone are also hosting sessions in Longtown, with a small cost per session:
Family Hub on the Border, Longtown, 27 July, 3 August, 10 August, 17 August & 24 August, 6.45pm to 8.15pm (50p per session)
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Cumberland Council is encouraging residents and visitors to make the most of the summer holidays, with affordable travel across the area, thanks to the Cumberland Go bus network.
Passengers can enjoy single bus journeys for just £3, making it easier than ever to explore Cumberland without the expense of driving and parking. From trips to Hadrian’s Wall and the coast, to visits to family-friendly attractions, there are plenty of great-value days out on offer.
The initiative is part of the council’s ongoing commitment to improving public transport and is supported by £3.55 million in government funding. This investment has helped deliver 18 new and enhanced bus routes across the area, improving connections between Carlisle, West Cumbria and key coastal communities, and making it easier for people to travel for work, education, healthcare and leisure.
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The school holidays is the perfect time to explore the wonderful local markets across Cumberland, offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
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.
There is also a new Whitehaven Market, which will take place on the 3rd Saturday of each month.
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.
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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 27 and Monday 31 August.
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.
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.
Carlisle’s market will continue as usual on Friday 28 August, with a temporary move to the top of English Street. 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.
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Looking for a way to keep the kids busy this summer?
The HAF programme offers safe, fun activities with trusted local providers, plus a free meal each day for eligible children.
There are still places available, but sessions are filling up fast.
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Lots of local sessions to choose from
The Beacon Museum is packed with activities this summer, offering something for all ages.
Visitors can explore the new, fascinating Carboniferous Monsters exhibition, take part in hands-on events during the Festival of Archaeology, and enjoy a range of creative workshops, including glass fusing with local artist Roxanne Denny.
Popular Pet Encounters sessions return throughout the holidays, while Beakid activities will keep young minds busy with space-themed science experiments and pirate adventures inspired by the visit of the historic Nao Santa Maria ship to Whitehaven.
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Tullie has an exciting programme of family-friendly events and activities lined up throughout the summer holidays. Visitors can get creative with weekly Scrap-tastic Sundays, transforming recycled materials into imaginative creations, while Tullie Mouse Mondays offer the chance to meet the museum’s much-loved furry resident.
A packed programme of interactive entertainment includes Daffy Dill’s magic and bubble-filled family performance on 29 July, and an animal handling experience with Zoobidoo on 3 August.
Alongside these special events, there will be regular drop-in family crafts, storytelling sessions with Tullie’s Story Suitcase, and opportunities for creative play through Loose Parts Play activities inspired by the museum’s automata exhibition. Those wanting to explore automata in more detail can take part in dedicated family workshops on 7 and 28 August, creating their own moving mechanical masterpieces.
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The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Saturday 25 July
Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award nominated smash hit show, The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns on tour.
Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised!
Suitable for children aged 3+.
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Ministry of Science Live
Tuesday 28 July
Direct from London’s West End. Over the last few years Science has led the way in getting our lives back to normal. Now, the UK’s favourite science team are back and more explosive than ever!
Join our presenters as they dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way!
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Fun for Little ones: A Tribute to Ms Rachel
Wednesday 29 July
The UK’s Ultimate Tribute to the Global Sensation…Ms Rachel!
Get ready for giggles, singing, dancing, and non-stop fun as the magic of Ms Rachel comes to life on stage in an interactive, high-energy live tribute performance made just just for little ones and their grownups!
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The Princess Proms
Thursday 30 July
Prepare for a show stopping performance as we pay tribute to the iconic, heartwarming and nostalgic songs from animations including; Frozen, Wicked, K-Pop Demon Hunters, Moana, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty & The Beast, Anastasia, Pocahontas, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory and more! As well as a few from our favourite popstars like Taylor Swift, Coldplay and Rachel Platte.
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Talkin Tarn, Brampton
Thursday 13 August
Outdoor theatre suitable for all ages at Talkin Tarn Country Park.
The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present their own brand of Shakespearean mayhem in the Bard's comedy of fools, duels and dual identities.
“Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them!”
Get in a fight. Cross-dress. Throw on some yellow stockings. Love can make you do the funniest things…!
Family-friendly fun with live music and audience participation.
The show will begin at 7pm.
Take a picnic and something to sit on!
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 Mini Theatres Workshop
Thursday 30 July - Carnegie Studios, Workington - 10am to 12pm
Be inspired by the magic of the Carnegie and create your very own mini theatre.
Looking for something different to do in the school holidays? Join Handpicked Productions for SumArt To Do – relaxed, welcoming workshops where families can make, explore and create together.
Led by Handpicked’s artist Janice Murray, every session offers a new creative adventure. Our mission is simple: to make creativity accessible to all. No experience is needed – just bring your imagination and enjoy making something unique together.
Summer Art Gyms
Monday 27 July - Carnegie Studios, Workington
Discover the bold, graphic world of lino printing.
In this Art Gyms session, you'll explore the exciting process of lino printing, using hand-carved lino blocks to create bold designs on a tote bag to take home.
Whether you've tried lino printing before or you're completely new to it, this is your chance to experiment, get creative and discover the satisfaction of making something by hand.
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Looking for ways to keep the children entertained over the summer holidays? Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven has a packed programme of creative activities for families, from drama workshops and hands-on arts and crafts to a fun-filled K-pop party.
Young performers can take centre stage at Rosehill’s Summer Drama Club, which runs every Wednesday until 19 August for children aged 12 and under. Over five weekly sessions, participants will explore different aspects of theatre while building confidence, creativity, resilience and leadership skills. Activities include character and story creation, physical theatre, puppet making, improvisation and even age-appropriate stage combat. Families can dip in and out of sessions around their holiday plans, with children welcome to attend as many or as few sessions as they like.
Throughout the summer, Rosehill is also transforming its top floor into Art Lab – a free creative make-and-play space where families can experiment with arts and crafts materials, create their own masterpieces and even display their artwork for others to enjoy.
Adding to the summer line-up is a special K-pop Party on 1 August. Fans can join HUNTR/X for an afternoon of dress-up, dancing, make-up, karaoke, games and snacks. With spaces limited, early booking is recommended for what promises to be a lively and memorable event.
Whether your children love performing, creating or simply trying something new, there is something for everyone to enjoy this summer at Rosehill Theatre.
Florence Arts Centre is helping families get creative this summer with a programme of hands-on workshops and family activities running throughout the holidays.
Every Wednesday until 19 August, children can enjoy a range of artist-led sessions, including making their own piñata, designing an imaginary map and casting and painting their own treasures to take home.
Alongside the workshops, the popular Playdays drop-in sessions offer affordable fun for children aged three to 10, with activities across the site including Forest Folk adventures and family film screenings.
Whether your child enjoys arts and crafts, exploring new ideas or getting involved in creative activities, there’s plenty to discover at Florence Arts Centre this summer.
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Music fans can enjoy a double dose of chart-topping hits at Beggar’s Theatre in Millom this summer when Harry Styled and The Taylor Swift Effect arrive on 25 July at 6pm.
The show brings together two high-energy tribute acts celebrating the music of global superstars Harry Styles and Taylor Swift. Audiences can sing along to Harry Styles favourites including Watermelon Sugar, As It Was, Adore You and Sign of the Times, performed by acclaimed tribute artist Kofi Taylor.
The evening also features The Taylor Swift Effect, a live vocal tribute that takes audiences on a journey through Taylor Swift’s biggest hits, from her country roots to her record-breaking pop anthems and fan favourites.
Perfect for families, friends and pop music lovers of all ages, the show promises an entertaining night packed with familiar songs and feel-good energy.
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Every Tuesday until 19 August, join the National Trust for the Summer Play Trail at Haig Pit for free family games in the wildflower meadow.
The National Trust will also be at the Whitehaven Weekender on 29 and 30 August. Find them at the Candlestick and Harbourside where they will have games and activities for you to enjoy.
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There's plenty happening at Kirkgate Arts and Heritage this summer, with creative workshops and community markets all on offer.
The popular Kirkgate Monthly Market returns on 25 July and 22 August, featuring local makers, crafts, books, toys and pre-loved treasures.
For those looking to get creative, Crafts@Kirkgate on 7 and 8 August offers the chance to experiment with block printing alongside Emily from Market Place Print Studio, creating unique designs using hand-carved stamps inspired by animals, plants and nature.
With something for shoppers, film fans and budding artists alike, Kirkgate Arts and Heritage is a great place to visit during the summer holidays.
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Borrow a picnic set, bring along your favourite toy and snacks, and find the perfect picnic spot in the hidden walled garden at Wordsworth House from 2 to 16 August.
They’ll provide the blanket, basket, tea set and all you need for your teddy, and you bring along any of your own snacks to enjoy.
Children’s picnic sets available to borrow at any time from the welcome area.
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Young nature lovers can explore the outdoors, discover local wildlife and make new friends this summer with a range of activities from Cumbria Wildlife Trust.
The Wildlife Watch Group offers hands-on adventures for children aged five to 15, with sessions taking place at Harrington Marina, Workington on 15 August, and Parton Beach, Whitehaven on 25 July and 29 August.
Led by Cumbria Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers, the sessions give young people the chance to get out onto the beach, into the natural environment and experience wildlife up close.
For older teenagers, the Young Volunteers programme provides an opportunity to learn more about conservation while helping to take action for nature. Sessions are open to 13 to 17-year-olds and take place at Blue Dial Farm, Allonby on 25 July, 26 August and 29 August, and at Gosling Sike, Carlisle on 2 August.
Whether you're interested in wildlife, conservation or simply spending more time outdoors, these activities offer a great way to connect with nature over the summer holidays.
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SeaFest is back! Come down to St. Bees on 25 July to enjoy a host of marine-focused stalls and activities, and celebrate the wonder of the Irish Sea.
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Take part in our annual sand sculpture competition – create a marine masterpiece!
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Create a cyanotype with our expert guide
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Enjoy marine discovery activities, like our mobile rockpool and virtual reality sessions
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Get creative with us by making beach litter mosaics and marine cyanotypes
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Watch performances and storytelling by the La'al Collective
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Chat to the Surfers Against Sewage team about their work
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Join our Tale Trails guided story walk
Seafest is a drop-in event, but if you'd like to take part in the sand sculpture competition (running 1-3pm), or create a cyanotype then booking is required.
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Carlisle United Community Sports Trust will be offering Soccer Schools alongside Dance and Gymnastics Camps across the county this summer.
Locations are: Wigton, Carlisle, Whitehaven, Penrith, Cockermouth, Keswick and Maryport.
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Every Wednesday until 26 August
Looking for some fun family-friendly activities during the Summer holidays? Come to the museum and get creative with pin badges, origami creations, felt puppets, paper crafts, cross stitches and peg dolls.
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Get ready for Summer of Fun on the Farm at Walby Farm Park – back for 2026 with weeks of adventure, fresh air and memory-making moments for the whole family.
Running throughout the summer holidays until Tuesday 1 September, there’s always something new to discover – whatever the weather.
Explore the Maize Maze, stroll through the colourful Wildflower Fields, and meet Walby’s animals, including the chance to take part in Highland cow feeding, new for 2026. Families can also try the new Guinea Pig Fishing experience, enjoy tractor and barrel train rides, and get up close to animals in the Animal Barn.
The National Festival Circus returns from 22 to 26 July. One of the highlights of the summer season, the circus promises five days of spectacular performances, thrilling acts and entertainment for all ages.
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Later in the summer, children aged 8 to 12 can join a fully supervised Children’s Summer Workshop at Carlisle Cathedral on 21 August. The two-hour session includes games, refreshments, Cathedral exploration and a themed craft activity inspired by colour, stained glass, stars and nature.
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Whinlatter Forest is hosting a range of family-friendly activities this summer, combining outdoor exploration, creativity and a little bit of magic.
Fans of Julia Donaldson’s much-loved story can follow the Room on the Broom Cauldron Walk, helping a friendly witch collect ingredients from the forest to create a magical spell. The pushchair-friendly trail is suitable for children aged five and over. Families can also meet the Witch herself on 30 July, when she will be making special appearances throughout the day for photos and selfies.
On selected dates throughout the summer, let your little one go wild in the summer holidays with the return of Wild Things Adventure Club.
Join photographer Steve Blake on a family friendly half day workshop on Wednesday 5 August. You'll explore different elements and techniques of landscape photography.
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28 to 30 August
Krankenhaus Festival is brought to you by Sea Power, Muncaster Castle and friends. This utterly exhilarating weekend is is where wildly thrilling contemporary music rubs up against another world of fell walks, raptor displays, nature talks, steam trains and prize-winning novelists – where rock music meets the highest rocks in England, with the glorious noise blasting out toward Scafell Pike.
Join them from 28 - 30 August for a stacked lineup, including Sea Power, Sprints, and alternative music heavyweights Stereolab in a stunning setting. Expect more than your average music festival.
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Morrisons and Kellogg’s have announced the return of their school holiday ‘Breakfast Clubs’, offering free meals to families across the UK to help ease the financial pressure over the summer holidays.
Families visiting their local Morrisons Café throughout the summer holidays can enjoy a free ‘Kellogg’s Breakfast’, which includes a bowl of cereal and a portion of fruit. The best part, it’s not just for kids, adults get to eat completely free too.
29 August
The Harrington Marina Day takes place on 29 August and consists of free live music, children's entertainer, shire horses, live wood carving, fire brigade car cutting demonstration, lifeboats, ambulances, police, food and drink vendors, stallholders, sports demonstrations, fairground, bouncy castles and much much more.
A day full of cheap or free entertainment and activities! Something for everyone
29 and 30 August
After years away, one of Maryport’s most iconic traditions is making a triumphant return!
Two days of fun food and entertainment including trawler race, dog show, bar, live music and stalls.
Dust off the bunting, gather the crew, and get ready for a weekend packed with boats, entertainment, food, music and community spirit.
29 and 30 August
A brand-new festival comes to Whitehaven Harbourside
Whitehaven Weekender is a new two-day celebration of music, creativity and community, created through a partnership between the teams behind Harbour Fest and Pride by the Harbourside. Taking place across the harbourside on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August 2026, it's set to be a joyful, inclusive weekend for locals and visitors alike.
Visitors will be able to step aboard the Nao Santa Maria – a full scale reproduction of Christopher Columbus' flagship during his 1492 voyage to the Americas.
Following the success of last year’s visit of the tall ship Galéon Andalucia, this year’s event promises to be even more memorable, offering residents and visitors a unique opportunity to experience a striking replica of one of history’s most famous ships.
The ship will be open to visitors from 31 July to 10 August.
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