The 30 best things to do with your kids in Cumbria
Keeping the kids entertained throughout the year can often be a cumbersome task. So to help parents here is a list of the 30 best things to do with kids in Cumbria.
Come rain or shine, let the children play this summer as you tick off things to do from InYourArea's selection of indoor and outdoor activities.
Pleasing the kids can be a hard task, so why leave it to chance?
We have put together a list of the 30 best things to do with your kids, to make your decision making that little bit easier.
Tire out your little tots with some adrenaline-fueled fun or fill their heads with wondrous imagination at an educational activity.
Fly high with outdoor climbing activities or travel back in time to an Aviation Museum and the world of Beatrix Potter.
Something missing from our list? Let us know and we'll add it in! Comment below or send us your recommendations to info@inyourarea.co.uk.
Best outdoor activities for your kids in Cumbria
Treetop Nets
Where: Brockhole, Ecclerigg, Windermere, Cumbria LA23 1LJ
Bounce, climb, balance and play in a world among the trees, with ecxiting thrills and adventure awaiting families.
Young adventures will be able to choose a Treetop Trek, a climbing challenge, to zoom down a zip wire, or to spend time in the huge bouncy nets with ball parks, super fast slides and aerial walkways!
Kit yourself out in comfortable clothes and make sure you're ready to dive head first into this incredible adventure.
This venue doesn't shy away from the cold and rainy weather, but of course if the weather makes the experience a health and safety issue, it will be closed!
Prices vary depending on what activity you choose, some activities are also discounted for young children - but most operate a set fee.
Website: treetoptrek.co.uk/windermere
Grizedale Forest
Where: Grizedale Forest, Ulverston, Lake District, Cumbria LA12 8LJ
Explore the great outdoors as you meander through this incredible landscape, with sculptures scattered throughout the forest waiting to be discovered.
Families can choose any of the 10 walking trails on offer, or get on their bikes for the nine cycle trails winding their way through the forest.
Want more of a thrill? There is the option to Go Ape, or sign up for Forest Segway.
Admission to the forest is free, however organised activities do have set prices.
Website: forestryengland.uk/grizedale
Blencogo Farm
Where: Blencogo, Wigton, Cumbria CA7 0BZ
Meet adorable alpacas at this family-friendly farm in Wigton - here you'll be able to get close to the herd in incredible ways.
Take an alpaca for a walk, stroke them and feed them throughout this interactive experience, where you will learn all about alpacas.
Don't forget to snap plenty of photos of your experience!!
Tickets must be booked in advance, with group deals available.
Website: blencogofarm.com/
Go Ape
Where: Whinlatter Forest Park, Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5TW
Fly down zip-wires, leap off the Tarzan Swing and tackle obstacles while enjoying some seriously beautiful scenery.
Take your pick from wind-in-your-face rushes to butterfly-inducing drops, and discover a treetop adventure in Keswick!
Families can also whizz around on segways, stumble about in the Nets Adventure - you're bound to have a blast.
The surrounding forest is also home to nine walking trails, three cycling routes and an outdoor play area - which are free!
Each activity has a set price, with prices varying depending on age.
Website: goape.co.uk/locations/whinlatter
Lakeland Maze Farm Park
Where: Raines Hall, Sedgwick, Kendal, Cumbria LA8 0JH
Enjoy acres of fun at this family attraction, get lost in a maize maze, meet adorable farm animals and enjoy a day playing outdoors.
Ride a tractor around the farm, climb, jump and slide in the outdoor playground, pet small animals or take a turn on the trampolines!
While the maze is seasonal, you can visit the farm all year round - and make the most of the indoor soft play centre!
Admission is based on off peak and peak seasons, with annual passes also available. The entry fee is dependent on age.
Website: lakelandmaze.co.uk/
Greystoke and District Outdoor Pool
Where: Church Road, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0TW
Make a splash and lap up the warm weather by the open air pool in the village of Greystoke, Cumbria.
Kids can enjoy laps in the heated pool throughout the summer months, with a separate toddler pool for your little ones and a dolphin slide sure to make a splash.
When your children have had enough of enjoying the water, they can spend some energy tearing it up in the outdoor play areas.
Day tickets vary depending on age, with family tickets available to purchase as well as season passes.
Website: greystokepool.org.uk/
Live For Today Adventures
Where: The Castle Green Hotel, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 6RG
Get ready for an adrenalin fuelled adventure perfect for the whole family.
Let loose on the high ropes, try your skill at axe throwing, whizz your way down a zip wire, conquer the tower or crack clues in a cryptic forest chase.
Children of all ages can enjoy outdoor games, activities and challenge themselves in fun ways.
Price varies depending on which activity you choose, with admission based per person.
Website: live-for-today.com/castle-green-kendal/
Gincase Farm Park
Where: Wigton, Cumbria CA7 4LL
Adorable goats, towering horses, colourful peacocks and chubby pigs are waiting to be introduced to your family.
This farm is the perfect location for kids who love to play, and love animals with a range of outdoor fun to be had for all ages.
With peddle go karts, chances to feed and interact with the animals as well as a fun sand pit to build castles.
When the weather isn't on your side, the farm also has a range of indoor play areas for you to choose from.
Admission is based on age, with annual passes and family tickets also available.
Website: gincase.co.uk/
Muncaster Castle
Where: Ravenglass, Cumbria CA18 1RQ
Wander through the estate of Muncaster Castle with bluebell woods, Himalayan gardens and enchanted trails to explore.
Children can navigate the Meadowvole Maze or have a blast in the adventure playgrounds, with plenty of entertainment to be had.
When you aren't taking in the natural beauty of the area, families will also be able to visit the Hawk and Owl Centre for hands on experiences with birds of prey.
Make sure you make time to visit the historic haunted castle itself while there.
Prices vary depending on whether you visit during peak or off peak seasons, with specialist events priced accordingly.
Website: muncaster.co.uk/
Talkin Tarn Country Park
Where: Tarn Road, Brampton, Cumbria CA8 1HN
Stroll around the 65 acre lake set amid 120 acres of farmland and woodland - you'll see nature as far as your eye can reach.
Breathe in a gulp of fresh air and take in the landscape with plenty of cycling and walking routes you and your family can enjoy.
Take a frisby, ball or a picnic and make a day out of it - with spots for fishing as well.
What makes this even more appealing for a day of fun for families is the fact it is free to enter.
Website: visitcumbria.com/car/talkin-tarn/
Fitz Park BMX Track and Playground
Where: Fitz Park, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4HS
Climb, slide and play in this fantastic location, featuring a range of activities and play equipment for children of all ages.
Families can head to Fitz Park to enjoy the natural landscape, or let loose i the adventure playground, play a game of golf, try their hands at croquet and build in the sand pit.
When you aren't making use of the equipment there is a BMX track as well as areas for football and basketball.
Admission to the park is free, with games of golf bowls and croquet charged at their own prices.
Website: keswick.org/what-to-do/fitzpark
Carlisle Castle
Where: Castle Way, Carlisle, Cumbria CA3 8UR
Take a step back in time as you explore this impressive castle which has been standing tall for nine centuries.
The castle withstood sieges, held a Royal prisoner captive and the former home of the King's Own Royal Border Regiment - this location is steeped in history.
When you're children aren't discovering something new in the castle rooms, throughout the exhibitions and in Queen Mary's tower, they can wander the grounds and attend a range of specialist events throughout the year.
Admission can be paid with or without gift aid, with prices ranging depending on age. Family tickets are also available.
Website: english-heritage.org.uk/carlisle-castle/
Predator Experience
Where: Barns Close, Ayside, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria LA11 6HY
Take a walk on the wild side with wolves, falcons, eagles and foxes in this ultimate thrill seekers adventure.
Combining the thrill of unpredictable predators, and the great outdoors.
Families will be able walk with wolves, handle hawks and more at this location in Cumbria.
While there are some age restrictions for some of the activities, there is plenty that young kids can get involved with as well.
Price depends on which activity you choose with pre-booking essential.
Website: predatorexperience.co.uk/
Lakeland Miniature Village
Where: Winder Lane, Flookburgh, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria LA11 7LE
Explore more than 100 houses, farms and barns that make up the incredible Lakeland miniature landscape.
Landmarks have been painstakingly created using locally sourced materials before being displayed for families.
Whether your a miniature village enthusiast or seeing a tiny village peaks your interest, this is the place to go!
Admission is based on age, with opening hours restricted from March to October.
Website: lakelandminiaturevillage.co.uk/
Climb 365
Where: Milnthorpe Road, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 5HH
Challenge your family to an outdoor adventure with plenty to get your adrenalin going.
The activity centre offers rock climbing, mountaineering and adventure activities for all ages in the great outdoors.
Children as young as six can push themselves past their limits, be inspired to climb greater heights all while having the time of their lives.
Prices vary depending on which activity you choose, with special family day out packages.
Website: climb365.co.uk/
Best indoor activities for your kids in Cumbria
Kendall Wall - Climbing Centre
Where: Lake District Business Park, Mint Bridge Road, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 6NH
Challenge, excite and entertain your whole family at this indoor climbing centre.
Children are in for an action packed adventure at Kendall Wall, with children as young as four able to get involved.
It's a fun but challenging way to take on new heights - with extra challenges and aid for climbers of all ages and abilities.
The question is can you make it to the top?
Admission is based on age, with reduced entry for members and punch card holders.
Website: kendalwall.co.uk/
Want more climbing options in the sprawling county why not try out Keswick Climbing Wall or Ambleside Climbing Wall in Ambleside, Cumbria LA22 0DB
Lake District Coast Aquarium
Where: South Quay, Maryport, Cumbria CA15 8AB
Immerse yourself in an underwater adventure you won't forget with sharks, sting ray and jelly fish just some of the sea creatures you'll encounter.
Families can make their way through the various exhibits meeting and learning about the wonders below the water.
With daily talks and feedings hosted, families can enjoy fascinating moments they wouldn't normally see as well as a great space for arcade fanatics.
Open seven days a week, this venue also has a range of outdoor activity perfect for warmer days including crazy golf, Nautical themed playpark.
Admission is based on age with annual passes and family tickets available to purchase.
Website: coastaquarium.co.uk/
West Coast Karting
Where: Solway Trading Estate, Maryport, Cumbria CA15 8NF
Get ready, get set, GO for an adrenaline fueled, fast paced thrill!
Zoom around this premier go karting track with fast paced vehicles ready to make sharp turns and quick laps around the 520m course (or 330m kids track).
With a range of karts available to ensure all drivers can make the most out the experience, including hand-controlled karts for disabled drivers.
With specialist sessions available for children, and other sessions targeted at drivers over the age of 16.
Prices for children and adults are the same with a minimum age for this activity being eight.
Website: westcoastkarting.co.uk/
The World of Beatrix Potter
Where: Crag Brow, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere, Cumbria LA23 3BX
Hop, skip and jump into the world of The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Tom Kitten as the books come to life in a museum that celebrates all things Beatrix Potter.
The writer, illustrator, natural scientist, and conservationist was a huge part of the Lakeland conservation, and at the World of Beatrix Potter you'll be able to find out why.
With a rang interactive exhibits for children to enjoy, specialist events that bring her children's books to life as you take on a self-guided tour.
Each area has its own unique theme that you won't be able to help falling in love with.
Admission is based on age, with separate prices to watch the live 'Where is Peter Rabbit? Show' - combination tickets are also available to purchase.
Website: hop-skip-jump.com/
AMF Bowling
Where: Currock Road, Carlisle, Cumbria CA2 4AS
Aim for a strike, play a game of pool or try your hand at the arcades the choice is up to you at this location in Carlisle.
Families can spend quality time together trying to beat each others bowling scores - with plenty of fun to be had.
Will you opt for the choice of the sides up? Or challenge your family to a game with more risk and higher stakes!
Prices vary depending on which session you book with discount days and groupd discounts available.
Website: amf-bowling.co.uk/
A fun game of bowling can also be found at Eclipse Leisure Centre in Workington, Cumbria if you're looking for some more ten pin fun.
Laser Quest
Where: Paton House, Victoria Viaduct, Carlisle, Cumbria CA3 8AN
Laser Quest is an adrenaline fuelled battlefield game of hide and seek, for everyone over the age of seven.
Hidden under the old Carlisle Jail the Laser Quest Sci-Fi Labyrinth consists of post apocalyptic catwalks, mazes, swirling fog, atmospheric music and UV lighting.
Armed with a Laser gun you have 15 minutes to score as many points as possible by shooting your opponents but bear in mind you loose points if you get shot yourself!
This family friendly adventure is charge per person, with guests allowed to book more than one session back to back.
Website: totalenigmaltd.co.uk/laser-quest/
Dalton Leisure Centre
Where: Chapel Street, Dalton-in-Furness, Cumbria LA15 8DA
Swim like a fish at this indoor pool in Cumbria, whether you're a keen swimmer or just starting out, this is the spot for you.
Splash about in the water, take laps across the 20 metre pool or sit back in the paddling pool for toddlers.
To add to the excitement for your smallest children, they'll be able to take a turn on 'Jacko' the frog slide!
Admission is based on age, with regular visitors with a loyalty card given discounts.
Website: daltonleisurecentre.co.uk/
Lakes Aquarium
Where: Rocky Bank Lakeside, Newby Bridge, Lakeside, Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 8AS
Transport yourself to Asia, Africa, and The Americas at this all round aquarium in Ulverston.
Families will be able to discover a range of sea life and creatures, from local waters and those further afield you'll be able to appreciate rays, frogs, puffer fish and more.
The aquarium is also home to otters and harvest mice who you won't find underwater.
Tickets bought online in advance are discounted, with annual passes and family entry also available to purchase.
Website:lakesaquarium.co.uk/
Lakeland Motor Museum
Where: Old Blue Mill, Backbarrow, Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 8TA
Be fascinated by an incredible collection of more than 30,000 exhibits that showcase how transport has transformed over the years.
Families will see cycles, motorbikes, motor cars and auto-mobilia from across the 20th century proving just how much the vehicles have changed over the years.
Your family will leave armed with a whole host of new information and local history to share with their pals.
Admission is based on age, with bookings made online in advance receiving a discount.
Website: lakelandmotormuseum.co.uk/
Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum
Where: Quarry, Threlkeld, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 4TT
Learn all about the geology of the Lake District and the mining practices that used to be so prevalent in the area.
This experience will allow children to get interactive with the past, explore mines and learn about the local minerals and resources around them.
Open daily, there are a range of exhibitions, tours and steam locomotive days for families to enjoy.
The annual steam gala isn't one to miss.
Admission varies, with a base rate offered with add on extras for activities such as mineral panning, underground tours and railway access.
Website: threlkeldquarryandminingmuseum.co.uk/
Derwent Pencil Museum
Where: Southey Works, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5NG
Discover the location where the world's first pencil was made - visitors will walk through a replica graphite mine to discover the history of pencils.
Intrigued? Understandably so, this spot was once the source of the pencil industry over three centuries ago!
Families will be able to discover secret WW2 pencils with hidden maps; one of the largest colour pencils in the world measuring almost eight metres as well as The Queen's diamond Jubilee pencil.
If that's not enough, the attraction also offers children's groups, art classes and a whole host of special events.
Admission is based on age with family packages and annual memberships also available.
Website: derwentart.com/derwent-pencil-museum
Rheged Indoor Play
Photo by Greyson Joralemon on Unsplash
Where: Redhills, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0DQ
Let your little ones let loose in this soft play haven, with ball pools, climbing slopes, slides and tunnels to explore.
Kids can let their imaginations run wild, while parents kick back and watch them explore the play centre.
With messy rooms and special areas for the youngest children to play interruption free, it's the ideal location for families looking for fun.
Admission is based on age, with prices varying depending on whether guests visit during peak or off peak sessions.
Website: rheged.com/play/indoor-play/
Owl and Pussycat
Where: Hindpool Road, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 2NA
Kids can let loose at this indoor play centre full of plenty of activities and contraptions to keep them entertained for hours.
There are play frames, slides, craft areas and more making it the perfect place for the wackiest kids around.
All children under the age of 12 will find something to entertain themselves with special sessions and clubs you can sign your little ones up to.
Admission is based on age, with membership cards available for regular visitors.
Website: wackywarehouse.co.uk/owl-and-pussycat/play
The Dock Museum
Where: Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 2PW
Adventure into the Viking gallery, learn about social history as well as all about the incredible shipbuilders and how they created the huge floating vessels.
Children will find exhibits, original artifacts and model replicas around every corner each showcasing and teaching them something new.
When the weather is on your side, why not head out to the outdoor play area? You can climb and play in the sunshine with all the other budding pirates.
Admission to the museum is free, but all donations are welcome.
Website: dockmuseum.org.uk/
Solway Aviation Museum
Where: Aviation House, Carlisle Airport, Crosby on Eden, Cumbria CA6 4NW
Take a nostalgic journey back to Wartime Cumberland and the men and women of the RAF who served in World War II.
This educational museum is the perfect place to take your children to learn all about the aircrafts of war, and the innovation found at dawn of the jet age.
Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions, with plenty of exhibits and real aircrafts for your family to appreciate.
The larger aircrafts are displayed outside, so make sure you are dressed for changing weather.
Admission is based on age, with family tickets also available.
Website: solway-aviation-museum.co.uk/
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