Borderlines: Helm – The 2026 Gwenda Matthews Talk with Sarah Hall
Join Sarah Hall as she discusses her award-winning, genre-bending sixth novel, which was inspired by the dramatic views of the fells and skies from her childhood home. This is the inaugural Gwenda Matthews Talk, remembering our much-loved festival co-founder and co-programmer, who died in January this year.
Borderlines: Moonlight Express – Around the World by Night Train with Monisha Rajesh
Join journalist Monisha Rajesh as she explores the art of slow travel by train, detailing her experiences on a journey all around the world. All aboard for a warm and witty ride!
Borderlines: Animal Antics with Jake Hope
Do you know which word will bring mice from their house? Or what Lola the puppy’s favourite things are when she’s walking in the park? Will Uncle Jerome be able to stop Zarah from grumbling on the long walk home? Join children’s author Jake Hope for a fun selection of animal themed stories and activities […]
Borderlines: Tom McNally and David Felton in Conversation
Hear the award-winning photographer and author behind the lavishly illustrated Forty Fells discuss some of the highlights from their book and share how much the Lake District means to them.
Borderlines: Poetry Open Mic Night
A festival favourite returns for another year: a guaranteed supportive atmosphere for poets of any level of experience to stand up and share their work or simply sit back and enjoy.
Borderlines: Vaseem Khan and Charlie Higson in Conversation
Join us for an in conversation event with two bestselling and award-winning writers, and official authors of brand-new books set in the world of the one and only James Bond. The two will discuss their different takes on 007, their personal history with the franchise and what it feels like to put their unique stamp […]
The Shaddongate Uprising 1826
Mark tells the tragic and largely forgotten story of the 1826 Shaddongate election riot. This was sparked by prospective Tory parliamentary candidate Sir Philip Musgrave visiting Shaddongate to canvass support from one of the area’s few eligible voters. At the time, Shaddongate was home to many hand-loom weavers, including Scottish and Irish migrants, who were […]
Findlay Napier
MG Alba Composer of the Year to release four new singles and a vinyl edition of acclaimed album Outsider ahead of a run of intimate England shows this November Findlay Napier will tour England this November, bringing his celebrated blend of sharp songwriting and warm, funny stagecraft to clubs, house concerts and festivals across the […]
Side Quest Makers Market
Bringing together over 50 market regulars and guest artist and makers. Side Quest will once again take over the side aisle of The Indoor Market Hall with a whole host of talented local businesses. With an emphasis on handmade and quality you can be sure to find the something special you never knew you needed. […]
Organic Farm Tour
A walking Tour of Susan’s Farm in Houghton, Carlisle and a chance to meet our livestock, finishing with a hot drink and a homemade treat.
