Day trip: Kirkby Lonsdale Edwardian weekend

If you preferred the whole Downton Abbey vibe pre-First World War (when at least half the cast had not been bumped off), Kirkby Lonsdale’s Edwardian weekend provides just that, with absolutely no near-death experiences in sight. With a change from its usual Victorian garb, this year sees flat caps and town criers unite (or possibly combine) for a weekend of costume-based high jinks in the South Lakeland town, with everything from market stalls to bell ringers planned. A traditional Edwardian tea is planned to kick off the weekend, taking place at Lunesdale Hall, with Saturday’s antique fair and market extravaganza promising the ultimate – Edwardian ice cream plus Punch & Judy. To carry on the traditional affair, Sunday sees performances from the Kirkby Lonsdale Brass Band and the theatrical Accrington Pals, with a piece reflecting on the ‘whole communities of young men’ who were enlisted to go to war. Think a unique celebration of Edwardian propriety and nostalgia… with the addition of a Helter Skelter. Kirkby Lonsdale is a 90-minute drive from Manchester, and can also be accessed via train to Lancaster and then bus.

Fri 5 – Sun 7 Sep, Kirkby Lonsdale, Tel 01524 271 437, Times and prices vary – see www.kirkbylonsdale.co.uk