A Festive Guide to Christmas in Kirkby Lonsdale

Posted 11 November 2025 by Alexandra Mackintosh

Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Fair (5 – 7 December)

Start December with a touch of magic at the Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Fair, taking place from 5 – 7 December. Expect a weekend packed with Christmas cheer at this much-loved annual event: stroll through the Christmas Chalet Village, watch the Christmas Lights Switch On, and follow the glow of the Lantern Parade through the streets. Visit Santa’s Grotto, browse the indoor and outdoor markets, and enjoy carol singing, mulled wine, mince pies, and more.

With free parking, family-friendly activities and a wonderful atmosphere throughout the weekend, it’s the ideal way to kick off your Christmas celebrations.

Independent Shopping on Kirkby Lonsdale’s High Street

Kirkby Lonsdale’s friendly high street is full of independent shops, making it a fantastic place for Christmas shopping. You’re sure to find something for everyone – even the person who has everything! Pick up handcrafted gifts, beautiful homeware, and festive decorations in a welcoming, relaxed setting.

Visit on a Thursday to browse the weekly Charter Market, with local traders bringing a wide variety of stalls to the market square. Enjoy a mulled wine as you browse the artisan gifts and Christmas treats on offer.

Festive Food & Drink

With cosy pubs and inns, AA Rosette dining, friendly cafes and even its very own beer hall, Kirkby Lonsdale is the perfect place to eat & drink this Christmas. Catch up with friends and family or take a break from Christmas shopping. Look out for festive specials and events, too.

If you’d like to take a taste of Kirkby Lonsdale home with you, pop into the town’s independent food shops. From handmade chocolates to one of the country’s oldest sweet shops, an award-winning butcher to home baked treats, there’s no shortage of foodie finds.

What’s On: Festive Events & Celebrations 

There’s lots on in Kirkby Lonsdale to get you into the festive spirit this Christmas! On November 13, head to Kirkby Lonsdale Rugby Club for a Christmas Market complete with artisan stalls, charity Christmas card sale, and festive food & drink. November 30 sees the nearby village of Casterton turn on its Christmas tree lights at The Pheasant Inn.

Head to St Mary’s Church on the 12 December for an evening of relaxed live music with Rockin Around the Christmas Tree bringing a cabaret-style selection of seasonal classics old and new to the stage. Keep an eye on what’s on here.

Enjoy a Festive staycation

Turn your visit into a festive getaway. Whether you prefer a cosy inn, stylish hotel, welcoming B&B, or self-catering cottage or apartment, Kirkby Lonsdale offers a wonderful mix of accommodation options. Settle in, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy a few days exploring the town and surrounding countryside this Christmas.

Shop Local & WIN: The Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Prize Draw

Make your Christmas shopping extra rewarding with the Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Prize Draw. Collect a stamp card from any of the 48 participating shops, earn one stamp for every £10 you spend (you’ll need 10), and drop your completed card at The Royal Hotel for a chance to win an overnight stay at a James’ Places hotel!

It’s a wonderful way to support local businesses while adding a little extra sparkle to your Christmas.

Festive Walks

See the countryside around Kirkby Lonsdale sparkle on a cosy winter walk. Wrap up warm, grab a hot drink, and explore the scenic trails around our market town. Enjoy a stroll along the River Lune to Devil’s Bridge, take a short drive to the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, or explore the nearby Forest of Bowland. The Yorkshire Dales and Lake District National Parks are also close by, offering endless opportunities for wintery adventures.

Christmas Halls & Gardens

Nearby, country halls are putting on Christmas celebrations – and Kirkby Lonsdale is a great base from which to experience them all. Winter at Sizergh sees the National Trust managed house and gardens glow with a woodland light trail, festive decorations in the hall, and food & drink in the cafe. At Levens Hall, weekend openings throughout December see the hall and Topiary Gardens welcome visitors with beautifully decorated rooms, Father Christmas visits, and festive dining in Levens Kitchen.

At Leighton Hall, there’s a Christmas Fair in support of CancerCare (3 Dec) and a one-off festive tour of the Hall on the evening of 11 December.

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