For us, Christmas is about feeling as completely cosy as possible. Part of that is visiting the places in the vicinity that really embrace all the tradition and nuance of the festive season, and one of those gorgeous locations is Cartmel in Cumbria, which is bound to get you feeling in the Christmas spirit.
Known for its famous racecourse and annual derby, Cartmel sits just outside of the Lake District National Park, which can mean it doesn’t get as clogged as your Windermeres, Grasmeres and Conistons – but frankly, the village could fit into a matchbox, so any visitors will fill it with the hustle and bustle of a landmark spot. Filled with cobbled streets, traditional pubs and halls decked from head to toe, Cartmel feels like stepping back into a simpler time, with a small, friendly community, village square and an impressive central priory.
Grabbing a hot chocolate, mulled wine or something stronger is not only easy, but an absolute delight in Cartmel, with gorgeous cafes and bars tucked away around every corner, not to mention its multiple Christmas markets that pop up annually – it really is perfect for a festive day trip.
History of Cartmel
Medieval Cartmel is a beautiful village with a colourful and interesting history. The village is most famous for its ancient priory which has been a place of Christian worship for 800 years, and Cartmel was once known as Kirkby in Furness and part of Lancashire until 1974 when it became part of the new county of Cumbria.
The monastic gatehouse proudly stands in the centre of Cartmel opposite the village square, now a grade II listed building after surviving the dissolution of the monasteries. A market cross and fish slabs are evidence of trading in the centre of the village, and the wide variety of shops and businesses in the village show that trade is still an important part of village life.
The racecourse is only a few steps away from the market cross. Horse racing seems to have a long history in the village as the monks would race mules for pleasure as far back as the 16th century – official records state that horse racing as we know it started in 1856.
Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding
Cartmel is the home of one of our absolute favourite sweet treats – the Sticky Toffee Pudding. The team at the still-thriving Cartmel Village Shop started baking in the back kitchen and selling it in the front 20 years ago, but of course, word soon got out and everyone wanted some, so the kitchen moved, but it’s still handmade – and there’s still nothing to match it.
Alongside the classic Sticky Toffee Pudding, the shop also offers indulgent Sticky Ginger Pudding, Sticky Chocolate Pudding and Sticky Banana Pudding, as well as a gorgeous Lemon Drizzle Sponge and Christmas Pudding… all your sweet, festive needs sorted.
Cartmel Christmas Markets
Though it be small, Cartmel hosts not one, but three Christmas markets.
Yew Tree Barn Christmas Festival Market
📅 5 Dec – 7 Dec 2025.
📍 Yew Tree Barn, Low Newton, Cartmel, Cumbria LA11 6JP.
Cartmel Old Grammar Country House Christmas Market
📅 12 Dec 2025.
📍 Cartmel Old Grammar, Grange-over-Sands LA11 7SG.
Christmas in Cartmel
📅 TBD.
📍 Village centre.
What else is there to see in Cartmel?
Cartmel is blessed with the River Eea running through its west, with the tributary of Clogger Beck running along the south, creating the perfect scene for fairy tale bridges adorned by gorgeous willow trees and reflections of twinkling lights. Don’t avoid the backstreets – they provide some of the most beautiful scenery.
What’s more, you may notice a fair few restaurants in Cartmel with red plaques on their exteriors – that’s because the village has two Michelin Star restaurants. L’Enclume and Rogan & Co are the crowning jewels of Cartmel, both founded by chef Simon Rogan, so whatever your taste, you’ll find a delicious and award-winning option here.
Parking in Cartmel
Although Cumbria is fairly well-connected to the rest of the country, getting around the county by train can be a tricky task. Most will therefore be driving, and you can find parking in Cartmel – if you’re lucky.
There is one main pay and display car park with other parking options including bays directly outside the priory. Seven Acres car park charges: two hours – £2, three hours – £3, or £4 for all day.
A public car park located next to Cartmel Racecourse and used commonly by race-goers is accessible to everyone, whether you’re visiting the racecourse or the village.
📍 Cartmel Racecourse, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QF.
How long does it take to get to Cartmel?
From Manchester, the journey to Cartmel takes around two hours – a straight shot up the M6, turning off at Milton.
