When to Visit - Arts and Events

The Lake District boasts many traditional English country dancing and Morris dancing groups that can often be seen during public holidays and festivals throughout the year. Two such festivals are the famous 'Cartmel Races' and 'Pasche Egg Rolling', where intricately painted, hard-boiled eggs are rolled down a hillside. Shows at Cockermouth, Hawkshead and Gosforth have a strong agricultural leaning and the well-known Appleby Horse Fair is a traditional 'gypsy' gathering. 'The World Gurning Competition' takes place at Egremont Crab Fair, where people compete to pull the ugliest face.

Lake District Dining

British cuisine has undergone a major transformation in recent years. The traditional English 'meat and two veg', previously encountered in many restaurants, has now been replaced by a sophisticated, cosmopolitan cuisine, inspired by numerous international influences and Italian, Chinese, Indian and French restaurants are commonplace. Ambleside, alone, has over thirty restaurants from which to choose, together with a variety of teashops, serving traditional English tea and scones, brimming with fresh cream and strawberry jam; a popular English 'tea-time' treat.

Lake District Tipping Advice

Some restaurants include a service charge which is usually stated on the menu. If this is not the case, the normal tip required ranges between 10 and 15 percent of the bill, according to the quality of service. Taxi drivers can be tipped at your discretion but it is usual to offer 10 percent of the fare.