CELEBRATING one of the darkest periods of Lancaster Castle's rich history, and commemorating the 405th anniversary of the arrest trial, and execution of the Lancashire Witches, Little Gargoyle Ltd and Lancaster Castle are hosting a Lancashire Witches Weekend on Saturday & Sunday (August 19 & 20) which includes a series of immersive events and entertainment imagineered by the theatre company, Little Gargoyle which will suit visitors of all ages. For example, there's a bespoke Pendle Witch Walk, a character-led tour where audience members become the accused and explore the historic superstitions and practices of the time. For kids there’s broomstick training and Little Witch Show, as well as Shakespeare's Macbeth will be 'toiling & troubling' in the castle courtyard.

Pre-booking is advised - go to www.lancashirewitches.co.uk.

Charges: Pendle Witches Walk £8; Broomstick Training £6; visits to the Well Tower Dungeon to meet Ol' Demdike £3.

THE Coniston annual institution that is the Lakeland Country Fair is set to take place on Sunday (August 20) from noon. Set in the stunning countryside at Torver overlooking the Coniston fells and Coniston Old Man, it showcases traditional Cumbrian skills and activities. For instance, there’s Herdwick sheep on display and demonstrations of hand-clipping. New to the show and is sure to raise a giggle or two is a demonstration of Duck-herding using sheepdogs, the dogs are trained to drive a gaggle of ducks through an obstacle course! Of course, there’s far too much going on to name it all, but the Terrier Show and racing is a must-see, as well as the popular Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling. If you’re feeling up to it there’s fell races for adults and juniors alike and a Tug’o’War by Young Farmers. Plus, for the kids, a bouncy castle, round-about, climbing wall and other side shows.

For full details visit www.lakelandcountryfair.co.uk.

Admission £5.

THE highly anticipated Kendal United Junior FC Tournament takes place on Saturday & Sunday (August 19 &20). This seven-a-side football tournament includes 10 age groups from under sevens to under 16s, played over two days. Even numbered teams are scheduled to play on Saturday and odd numbered teams on Sunday. Other attractions include side stalls, all-day refreshments, ice-cream van, tombola and a raffle. Kirkbie Kendal School hosts the event and kick-off is 10.30am.

Application form and details are available from Caspa at lorraine969@btinternet.com.

Team entry £35.

BREWERY Arts Centre is again hosting its successful programme of Summer Sundays live music events in the beer garden. The event showcases the talents of a variety of local bands and musicians and this Sunday (August 20) Emker Cel performs. Emker Cel is the solo project of Matt Kassell who writes, performs and produces recordings at his studio in Barrow-in-Furness, with occasional help from friends! There’s an outdoor bar, tasty menu and family-friendly atmosphere.

www.breweryarts.co.uk.

ULLSWATER Steamers host a fish supper cruise – with a pirate twist! A two-hour family evening cruise with musical (sea shanty) entertainment from Pirate Pete takes place on Tuesday (August 22). The ticket price includes a fish and ship supper (veggie option available on booking) and live entertainment. The steamer departs Pooley Bridge pier at 7pm and returns at 9pm.

To book and further details at www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk.

Tickets – Adults £18.50; children (U13) £14.50.

THE 114th Vale of Rydal Sheepdog Trials & Hound Show takes place Rydal Park, Ambleside, today (Thursday). The trials include Beagles, Coniston foxhounds, harriers and fell foxhounds and hound trails. There’s also a stick show and demos, young dog handler competitions plus a dog dash!

More than 20 trade stands offering country life shopping including clothing and accessories as well as art and displays. A licensed bar will be open from 11am-7pm and food will be on offer using local produce from a seated catering tent. The gates opens at 8.30am. All-in-all, a great family day out.

For more information go to www.rydalshow.co.uk.

Admission: Adults £6; children £2; car parking free.