A selection of some of the best places to go and things to do in September

1 A stunning show.

If there’s a show anywhere in the country with a better setting, we’ve yet to hear of it. The Eskdale Show will be held on September 28 against the backdrop of the spectacular Eskdale Fells and includes classes for Herdwick sheep, terriers and foxhounds as well as exhibitions of local crafts, fell races and children’s sports events.

2 Outdoor art.

Works by some of the leading sculpture artists of the last 30 years are on display around Grizedale Forest; hidden on the hillsides and among the trees. Grizedale, now one of the nation’s biggest and most unusual galleries, was at the forefront in the development of art in the environment in the 1970s and the forest is home to more than 60 sculptures. There are walking and cycle routes suitable for all abilities and a café and visitor centre to warm up in afterwards.

3 Picture the scene.

There are few things more enjoyable at this time of year than getting out in the fresh air to soak up the wonderful autumnal colour. There are those final days when summer finally gives way to the coming of the new season and Mother Nature pulls on her coat of many colours. Lakeland hillsides are ablaze with russet, bronze and yellow colours which make for great photos – don’t forget your camera and be sure to upload your best shots to our readers’ gallery online in the Photos section.

4 Light entertainment.

Not for nothing is Ulverston known as a festival town – there are festivals held here throughout the year on all manner of themes, but one of the most popular is the annual lantern festival first held in 1982 and happening this year on September 14. Lanterns designed and made by local children and community groups will be paraded through the town and the evening will culminate with a bonfire and fireworks.

5 Saddle up.

Hundreds of people are expected to descend on Hutton in the Forest this month for one of the most popular equine events in the north of England. The Hutton Horse Trials, which will take place on September 14 and 15, will feature some of the best riders from this country and abroad competing in dressage, cross-country and showjumping in the grounds around the home of Lord and Lady Inglewood.

6 Avoid the crowds.

Anyone who has visited the region’s tourist attractions during the summer holidays will know what a tiring experience it can be. But many of the sites which were swamped with holiday-makers just a few weeks ago are still open and refreshingly free of coach parties. Beatrix Potter’s house at Hilltop, for instance, one the busiest spots at peak holiday times, is open throughout September and October (closed on Fridays). The house is owned by the National Trust, for more information and other properties in the region visit their website.

7 Show of force.

They know how to put on a show in Westmorland, but then they have been doing it since 1799 so they should have the hang of it by now. This year’s Westmorland County Show is one of the country’s best one-day shows and will be held on September 12 at Lane Farm, Crooklands. Around 30,000 people are expected to see the livestock classes, crafts and trade stands.

8 The best taste.

The Taste Cumbria Food Festival, which is on the menu in Cockermouth on September 28-29, will showcase the region’s best local produce and producers. With cookery demonstrations, food and drink tastings and special guest appearances, the show is a highlight in the Cumbrian cuisine calendar.

9 Best foot forward.

After a successful first outing last year the charity fundraising Lake District Walking Festival returns on September 8 with new extended routes and walks suitable for all ages and abilities. Walks range from five to 22 miles and entry starts at £5. For more information go to walkforall.com and you’ll find more great walks in Lakeland and Lancashire at lancashirelife.co.uk where you can also upload your own favourite routes.

10 Take to the streets

The streets of Kendal will burst into life with three days of imaginative and entrancing outdoor performances at the Mintfest International Festival of Street Arts which runs from August 30-September 1. The festival features fireworks, contemporary dance, circus, comedy, music, acrobatics, surreal cookery and much more, with performances (most of them free and family-friendly) taking place on the streets and parks of the town. The Mintfest finale, by Pa Boom, will see Kendal Castle lit up by a dazzling firework and light show which will leave the audience convinced that pigs really can fly. To find out more go to www.lakesalive.org.

Where do you love to head for in Autumn? SLeave a cooment below or join the debate on twitter at #lancashirelife.