10 FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES IN CUMBRIA YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT

Jul 27, 2026

Cumbria is full of brilliant things to do with kids — and many of them fly completely under the radar

Most people think they already know what Cumbria has to offer.
Lakes. Hills. Walks!
And yes, Cumbria genuinely does all of that beautifully.
Whether your children are pulling you to visit a unique place, you might be amazed by what this fragment of England is quietly hiding.

Cumbria has the perfect fun play areas for your child, from underground explorations and secret waterfalls to interactive science experiences that are often overlooked in tourist lists. Every visitor who comes here, with families or on a solo trip, loves these fun family activities and returns again and again, and their children also talk about them long after the day is done. Here are 10 fun family activities in Cumbria to add to your list.

1.BrickStation, Carlisle: Creative LEGO Play For All Ages

Tucked inside the Atlas Works in Carlisle, BrickStation is one of those places you wish you'd found sooner. An independent, not-for-profit LEGO-themed play and learning centre, it's a genuinely calm alternative to the usual soft play chaos. Children build freely with thousands of bricks, tackle over 250 themed LEGO sets, and play 40 different LEGO board games — while parents either join in or unwind with a coffee. It's open to all ages and abilities, with dedicated sessions for children with additional needs.

2.Honister Revealed: Inside A Living Slate-Mine Legacy

Honister is located in England’s last working slate mine, which gives amazing family experiences in Cumbria. The underground mine tours bring the rich history of the Lake District to life. These are truly delightful places where children can stay much longer than they can in a museum.

If you're looking for more exciting views, the via ferrata climbing routes on the cliffs are remarkable and perfect for older children and thrill-seeking adults.

3.Big Screen, Big Discoveries: Rheged Discovery Exhibition Highlights

Rheged is a worthwhile adventurous place located on the hillside near Penrith, but it is easy to miss from the road. Here are the big screen cinema features, amazing nature with new exhibitions throughout the year, engaging children of all ages, and always something fresh to see. It’s a great half day outing where you can also enjoy tasty food, shopping, and a soft play area for little ones.

4.Mist, Rock, Roar: Exploring The Beauty Of Aira Force On Ullswater

Aira Force is a hidden gem and one of Cumbria's most stunning waterfalls. It’s a 20-metre drop into an outstanding gorge, but it still often gets masked by more popular Lake District spots. The walk from the National Trust car park is manageable for most families, and the waterfall itself is truly thrilling when in full flow.

If your child is usually shy away from the walks, then plan a picnic in the morning here and see how often changing your child’s mind after seeing this amazing sight.

5.From First Grip To First Send: Lakeland Climbing Centre, Kendal, For Every Climber

If you love climbing, but are a beginner, then the climbing centre in Kendal is perfect for you. Children who have never climbed before can have a great time with the help of an instructor, while younger and adults can take on more challenging routes. Here you can enhance your confidence, build physical strength, and improve problem-solving skills, feeling like you enjoy instead of exercise

6.Get Up Close: Carlisle’s Solway Aviation Museum Interactive Experience

Solway Aviation Museum is located next to Carlisle Airport. It is a volunteer-run museum and a hidden gem for families focused on engineering or history. The best part of the aviation museum you experience is getting close to real aircraft, which other aviation museums don’t allow. It’s very affordable, and the volunteers’ passion for aviation is truly communicable.

7.From Zip Wires To Squirrel Watches: The Ultimate Whinlatter Adventure

Are you a nature lover and looking for the most adventurous paradise in Cumbria? Then uncover Winlatter Forest, England's only true mountain. This forest is one of the best spots in England to see red squirrels in their natural habitat. Their Go Ape treetop adventure course is perfect for children, and marked cycling and walking trails for everyone. Check out the visitor center, which has a flavourful cafe and friendly staff, before you dive into nature.

8.Carlisle Castle: Where History Feels Like An Adventure

Carlisle Castle is an ancient fortress, nearly a thousand years old, and one of the best-preserved medieval sites in England. There’s an attractive atmosphere, managed by English Heritage. The children love this site more than typical museums, and the site offers free entry for children, making it one of the best family outings in the city.

9.From Steam To Smiles: The Ratty’s 150 Years Journey

Ravenglass & Eskdale is a 150-year-old narrow-gauge railway known as La'al Ratty and runs seven miles from the Cumbrian coast through the beautiful Eskdale Valley. It’s been operating since 1875, and its adorable steam and diesel engines have delighted generations of children. There are walking trails and a pub at the end of the route, and look at this stunning scenery, which seems outstanding. It's a lasting Cumbrian adventure that never gets old.

10. Beacon Museum, Whitehaven: Interactive History by the Coast

The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven is right by the harbor and gives an engaging look at the town, the coast, and the sea. It’s well-presented and suitable for all ages; children can explore everything from Viking Invasion to the local mining history. Last, but it’s worth remembering, walking along Whitehaven’s impressive harbour and marina.

DISCOVER MORE IN CUMBRIA

Cumbria is famous for its stunning landscapes, but it’s the hidden gems that often make the family outings most unforgettable. Whether you’re a local seeking new adventures or a first-time visitor to explore the country, there’s so much more to visit than any single trip can cover.

Start with one. Come back for the rest!

Planning A Family Day Out In Cumbria? Start At Brickstation!

Carlisle's independent LEGO learning and play centre is open seven days during school holidays — a creative, inclusive, and genuinely enjoyable experience for children and adults alike.

Join Now: www.brickstation.co.uk