Spend a weekend discovering the Lake District after dark at Calvert Lakes, overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake. This accessible two-night break combines guided stargazing, astronomy-inspired adventures, creative activities and the comfort of the centre’s hydrotherapy pool from Friday 13 to Sunday 15 November 2026.
What happens during the Dark Skies Weekend?
After arriving on Friday afternoon, guests can look forward to a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences suited to the weather and their abilities. The programme features stargazing with hot chocolate and marshmallows from the col at Dodd Wood, daytime solar observing and a talk by Cockermouth Astronomical Society.
Other planned activities include a stomp-rocket challenge, star-themed indoor climbing and ropes, and a dark-skies painting workshop with artist Juno Lowther. Guests can unwind with warm bathing in the hydrotherapy pool. The night-sky views are naturally weather-dependent; individual activities and availability should be confirmed with the organiser.
What’s included in the £300 price?
The organiser lists £300 per person for the weekend. This includes two nights’ accommodation in an accessible en-suite room, breakfast, lunch, dinner and refreshments, three activities, access to the hydrotherapy pool and communal spaces, and a dedicated instructor during the stay. Please check the exact package, participant requirements and any additional costs when booking.
Dates, times and location
- Start: Friday 13 November 2026, 4pm
- Finish: Sunday 15 November 2026, 2pm (organiser’s timetable)
- Venue: Calvert Lakes, Little Crosthwaite, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 4QD
- Price: £300 per person
- Organiser: Calvert Lakes / Lake District Calvert Trust
Calvert Lakes is on the slopes above Bassenthwaite Lake, north of Keswick, within the Lake District National Park. It’s a specialist outdoor activity centre with inclusive facilities for people of different abilities, including disabled guests, friends and family members. Contact the centre in advance about accessible facilities, support arrangements and suitability for your group.
How to book
Check dates and book with Calvert Lakes
For booking enquiries, call 017687 72255 or email enquiries@calvertlakes.org.uk. This is an overnight residential experience, not a general drop-in stargazing session.
Explore the northern Lakes
If you’re planning extra time in the area, explore our Dodd Wood guide, discover Bassenthwaite Lake and browse our Lake District places to stay for other dates. More events can be found in our Lake District events calendar.
Details checked on 6 November 2026 against the organiser’s programme and Visit Keswick event listing. The featured photograph shows the daytime landscape near Dodd Wood, not the residential stargazing session.