EDEN Valley Epic Cycle Sportive is a cycle ride of almost 60 miles starting from Penrith Leisure Centre on Sunday (March 5), between 8am-10.30am – you pick the time you wish to start. The route does not have any major ascents and follows quiet roads and lanes through Cumbria’s peaceful Eden Valley via Orton, Appleby, Dufton, Milburn and Langwathby. Refreshments will be available at the half-way point and a hot meal awaits you at the finish. Age 16+ years.

Register at www.epicevents.co.uk/cycle-sportives-2/the-eden-valley-epic-cycle-sportive

Cost £25.

WRAY Castle, at Ambleside, is again hosting its popular Children’s Book Festival this weekend Saturday & Sunday (March 4 & 5). Go along and meet the cast of bestselling children’s authors, illustrators and characters, including the Gruffalo illustrator Axel Scheffler, Philip Ardagh, Gill Lewis and Ed Vere. Wands at the ready for the Harry Potter event, and don’t miss out on a cuddle with Peter Rabbit! You can enjoy a jam-packed day of storytelling, dressing up and colourful craft. Ideal for families and children aged 3-11¾! Oh – and you can arrive at the castle own boathouse via the Book Boat sailing from Bowness Bay which has been specially commissioned for the festival.

Go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wray-castle/whats-on to book your tickets.

Tickets £5 (individual event)

A NEW exhibition of stunning photographs taken by David Higgins and Gary Lawson is on show at the Dales Countryside Museum, at Hawes, Wensleydale. Inspired by the landscape and wildlife of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and other protected areas 'Exploration of Land and Nature' will continue at the museum until April 2. Opening times 10am-5pm. For further information go to www.dalescountrysidemuseum.org.uk.

Entry charges: Adults £4.50; concessions £4; children free.

Photo: West Burton Falls taken by Gary Lawson

LUCY Fleming, daughter of Brief Encounter actress, Celia Johnson, is taking to stages across Cumbria and Lancashire to tell the story of her mother's war years, through letters to her father, Peter, brother of James Bond creator, Ian Fleming.

Lucy's real-life actor husband, Simon Williams, joins his wife in 'Posting Letters to the Moon', which is a funny and touching account of life during the war, rationing and being a film star. The event takes place on Saturday & Sunday (March 4, 7.30pm & 5, 9.30pm) at Glenridding Public Hall; Sunday (March 5, 6.30pm) at Alhambra Cinema, Keswick; Tuesday (March 7, 7.30pm) at The Gather, Ennerdale Centre.

Go to www.postingletterstothemoon.com for tickets.

Ticket price varies at each venue.

POPULAR artists' collective Green Door presents 'Landmarks' its first exhibition of the year at Kendal Museum. Many artists based their works on local landmarks while others preferred abstract representations with a more subjective accent for the artists. Genres vary from paintings, papercuts and prints to sculptures, textiles and wood which promises visitors a diverse and enjoyable experience when visiting the exhibition. Artists included are Kath Lockhart, Roger Bell, Helen Bennett, Ellie Chaney, Sue David, Joyce Eldred, Ann Marie Foster, Eileen Gledhill plus many more.

Landmarks continues at the museum until May 27 and is free to view between Tuesday-Saturday (10am-4pm).

Pictured is a linocut of The Red Barn, Cowgill, by Kath Lockhart.

A VIEW From the Edge, brought to us by Highlights Rural Touring Scheme, and sees private-eye Charlie Daniels being hired by the enchanting Elise Hillerman to investigate the disappearance of her husband. Meanwhile, writers Charlotte and Dan struggle to write the script of their new noir-inspired theatre show. Featuring sharp wit and quick pace, the production is highly original which will not only delight and intrigue you but will keep you guessing until the end. On stage on Sunday (March 5, 7.30pm) at Arnside Educational Institute. Tickets 01524-762254.

Tickets: Adults £8; children £4.00