It’s party time in the Lake District this month as the national park celebrates its 60th birthday with a week of events for local residents and visitors of all ages, including guided walks, lake cruises, bike rides and audio-visual presentations.
A two-day “Birthday Extravaganza” - supported by international arts event and street performance organisers Lakes Alive, kicks-off the celebrations on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 August with a family gala and garden party, in the grounds of Brockhole, the national park visitor centre on the shores of Windermere.
On both days there’ll be comedy, music from the Fellside Band, races, the chance to experience the Cumbrian Corner, and take part in the Unfair Games.
Free activities on both days include a treasure hunt, face painting, children’s crafts, badge making, a climbing wall, and a caricaturist.
And on the Sunday there’s a special party with dignitaries and a host of Cumbrian VIPs, including: the President of the Friends of the Lake District, Lord Judd; Vice President of the Campaign for National Parks, Sir Chris Bonington; and climber and Cumbria Adventure Capital Ambassador, Leo Houlding.
Other event highlights throughout the birthday week include:
- Tuesday 16 August - a walk around Dunnerdale in the company of national park chief executive Richard Leafe;
- Wednesday 17 August - a Wasdale Wander with a national park ranger explaining the details of this iconic landscape
- Wednesday 17 August - Seatoller, Castle Crag and a Mystery Cave, taking in the stunning scenery of Borrowdale; and
- Wednesday 17 August - Cruise on Windermere, with a special lake commentary from a national park ranger.
LDNPA Events Co-ordinator Andrea Hills said; “Obviously we’re so excited to be celebrating our 60 special years, but we want this week to be a real community event so there are activities for everyone to enjoy, as well as birthday cake and special treats.”
For more information about the events call 0845 272 0004 or visit www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/events
