8 Great Family things to do in the Lake District, Cumbria this half term

It only seems five minutes since the school summer holidays, but half term is already upon us! Luckily for you there is loads to entertain families in the Lake District, Cumbria this October half term. To help inspire you, we’ve put together this handy list of some of our favourite family-friendly activities across the area.

The Rheged Centre
 

On the edge of the Northern Lakes, The Rheged Centre offers plenty for families to enjoy. There's a cafe, gallery and shopping space; as well as a cinema showing the latest releases. Kids will love the state of the art indoor play area, complete with its own cafe serving coffee and cake. This half term, don't miss the Forty Farms exhibition from photographer Amy Bateman for a look at farming life, with free entry.

The Beacon Museum

The Cumbrian Coast has a fascinating history: it's seen everthing from Vikings, Romans and pirates to the spice trade and the development of Nuclear power. The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven is an exciting interactive museum that allows you to soak up this fascinating history. Whilst you are there, head to the viewing gallery on the first floor for incredible views of the stunning Solway Coast. Don't miss the chance to see an original Rembrandt too: his masterpiece, "Saskia van Uylenburgh in Arcadian Costume", is available to view at the museum until January 2023.

Lake District Wildlife Park

You will not find a more beautiful location for a wildlife park with the majestic Lake District fells creating the dramatic backdrop. Here you will find over 100 species from Anaconda to Zebra, Mandrills and Meerkats to endangered species like Gibbons and Asian Fishing Cats.

If you fancy getting up-close you can book an experience to meet Meerkats, see Lemurs, go on a walk and view the Hawks or try your hand at being a keeper. 
 

Lake District Coast Aquarium

The kids will love a wander around this extensive aquarium, which features over 90 themed tanks offering visitors the chance to see up close the collection of diverse wildlife from the Cumbrian Coast and UK.

There's also a crazy golf course, remote controlled boats and the Shiver Me Timbers playpark, as well as the Harbourside Cafe if you find yourself feeling peckish.
 

Safari Zoo

It's quite a surprise driving on the A590 towards Barrow and seeing Rhinos, Tigers, Giraffes, Lions and Bears roaming in the fields - but that's exactly what you'll find just a stone's throw from the South Lakes. 

Safari Zoo is home to over 1,000 rare and endangered animals. The Zoo actively plays a key role in breeding programmes for the most endangered species. A visit to the zoo allows you to get close to these amazing animals. You can even become a keeper for the day or feed some of these beautiful creatures.
 

Lowther Castle

The evocative ruins of Lowther Castle are set in acres of grounds and award-winning gardens. Deep within those grounds you will stumble across the Lost Castle Adventure Playground – one of the largest adventure playgrounds in the country, designed to look like a castle. 

There are ramps and steps and a firepole and a maze of turrets, zipwires, walkways and slides. The kids will leave exhilarated and exhausted, which makes for a quiet journey home!
 

Walby Farm Park

Walby Farm Park near Carlisle is a fantastic day out for all the family. As the name suggests this place is based on the farm so you get to see the sheep, cows and even deer.

There is also a huge indoor play area equipped with giant slides. You can take a tractor ride, try a pedal go kart or reach for the stars on the trampoline. During half term, don't miss their Pumpkin Picking event which takes place every day offering Halloween fun for all the family.
 

Birdoswald Roman Fort

Birdoswald is a popular place to start exploring the fascinating history of Hadrian’s Wall. Alongside the River Irthing, here you will discover a Roman fort, turret and milecastle. The Birdoswald Visitor Centre is an interactive museum which the kids will love learning about the intriguing story of Birdoswald and the people who have lived there over the past 2,000 years.