With the festive period on the horizon, Laura Earl, founder of The Hiking Household and a mother of four based in Cumbria, has shared her plans to visit several local Christmas attractions via public transport.
Laura expressed her fondness for this time of year, acknowledging how magical it can be for children – including her own.
She said: "We really are so fortunate as there is so much to do in Cumbria at this time of the year - from Christmas pantomimes, to winter markets, and everything in-between.
"Some of the best Christmas family activities are also easily accessible by bus - perfect for us parents who have more than enough to do this festive period. Why not let someone else drive for a change?"
All of the following attractions can be explored with bus fares at a maximum cost of £2 for a single journey.
A Little Princess
From November 17 to January 7, one such treat poised for family enjoyment is the new adaptation of the children's classic 'The Secret Garden', set to be performed at Theatre by the Lake in Keswick.
The story is about the power of imagination and friendship.
The theatre can be accessed via bus routes X4, X5, 554, 555, and 78, stopping at Keswick Bus Station.
Jack and the Beanstalk
Another noteworthy attraction, according to Laura, is the Christmas performance of Jack and the Beanstalk, which is set to run from December 12 till December 30 at The Forum in Barrow.
This beloved pantomime portrays Jack's race to save his sweetheart, Princess Jill, from the threatening Cloudland castle of Giant Blundebore.
The theatre can be accessed via multiple services into Barrow, stopping at Barrow Town Hall.
The Gingerbread Man
This spectacle blends puppetry, live action, music and humour, suitable for children aged three and up.
You can reach The Gingerbread Man using multiple services into Kendal, stopping at Kendal Bus Station.
Beauty and the Beast
On December 28 and 29, Laura proposes the pantomime at the Rheged Centre in Penrith.
The classic tale of Beauty and the Beast is promised to be an entertaining, comedy-filled family performance.
You can reach the centre via bus routes X4 and X5, stopping at Rheged Discovery Centre.
Carlisle Christmas Market
Christmas shopping enthusiasts might enjoy the Carlisle Christmas Market, active from December 1 to 17.
Alpine-style chalets will be hosting local and visiting traders at the Carlisle city centre, selling a myriad of gifts, crafts, food, and drinks.
The Christmas Market can be reached via multiple services into Carlisle, stopping at Carlisle Bus Station.
Hurry to Bethlehem Carol Service
For a more tranquil experience, the Carlisle Cathedral will present the Hurry to Bethlehem Carol Service on December 17.
This Sunday afternoon service is a soothing respite from the busyness of holiday preparations, featuring a special collection of carols performed by the Cathedral Consort.
The cathedral can be reached via multiple services into Carlisle, stopping at Carlisle Bus Station.
Allan Bank and Grasmere National Trust
Laura recommends a family-friendly, Christmassy walk around Allan Bank.
Operating on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in December - except for Christmas Eve - a visit to Allan Bank involves a pleasant stroll around its 'stunning' premises.
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