Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show
| When | |
|---|---|
| Usually | the Sunday of the late-August bank holiday weekend |
| Where | Grasmere, Cumbria |
| Indoor / outdoor | Outdoor |
| Family-friendly | Yes |
| Entry | Free to watch |
Make a day of it Grasmere lake circuit · ~1¼–1¾ h · Moderate at its hardest
Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show, held since the 1850s, is one of the best known of the traditional Lakeland sports days. Set in a field ringed by fells just outside Grasmere on the late-August bank-holiday Sunday, its highlights are the brutal guides' fell race up and down the steep fellside, Cumberland & Westmorland wrestling, hound trailing and traditional track athletics, plus tradestands and a show ring.
Good to know: it's a big, busy outdoor day in the open, so come prepared for sun or rain and bring a chair or rug. It's thoroughly family-friendly. Entry on the gate is free, the organiser says; expect crowds and arrive early.
Getting there & making a day of it: Grasmere has no station; come on the A591 or the 555 bus (see our Grasmere guide for the honest parking picture — it fills fast). Pair it with the gentle lake circuit or a climb of Helm Crag, and don't leave without the famous Grasmere gingerbread.
Dates and details can change — always confirm on the official site (opens in new tab) before you travel.