Summer is here and it's time to explore the many delights Cumbria has on offer. But what if weather plays havoc with your plans?

The good news is there are tons of options to keep young and old entertained, ranging from smash-hit stage shows to art exhibitions, to snake handling sessions and even a virtual trip to the red rock canyons of America.

For those who love Beatrix Potter, Where Is Peter Rabbit? returns for a second year to The Old Laundry Theatre, at Bowness on Windermere, running until Sunday, September 3. Inspired by the world famous stories, this unique theatrical extravaganza brings to life Beatrix Potter’s favourite character Peter Rabbit. Contact 015394 40872 or www.oldlaundrytheatre.co.uk for more details.

If it's absolutely bucketing it down, there’s nothing better than settling down to watch a good film. America Wild 3D, a film narrated by Academy Award winner Robert Redford, about America’s National Parks, will be showing until Sunday, September 3 at The Rheged Centre, Penrith.

The movie takes audiences on the ultimate off trail adventure into the nation’s awe inspiring wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, Yosemite and Arches. Join world class mountaineer Conrad Anker, adventure photographer Max Lowe and artist Rachel Pohl as they hike, climb and explore their way through America’s National Parks.

Rheged, which is also home to a soft play centre, clothing and beauty boutiques, gallery and an artisan food hall, will also be showing family feature films until September 2, at 3.15pm daily. Contact 01768 868000 or check out www.rheged.com for more information.

Wordsworth Wednesdays at Brockhoke on Windermere may be worth a visit. This free event run by the Wordsworth Trust promises a day of family activities, including fun for tots with the Rucksack of Rhyme, 11am - noon, an introductory talk about the poet himself,12.30pm - 1pm, with craft activities and stories from 2pm - 3pm. If the wet weather lets up, Brockhole also has an adventure playground, cafe, gardens, bike hire, archery and boat hire among other activities. Check out www.brockhole.co.uk.

Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery in Carlisle is a great rainy day place to visit. This summer don't miss a new exhibition by local illustrator and artist Paul Leith. Technicolor Carlisle is a display of exquisite felt works of art which can be seen until October 1. You can also take a rare opportunity to see a stunning collection of Roman cavalry equipment, including the Crosby Garrett helmet, as part of a major exhibition. See www.tulliehouse.couk for more details.

There’s always lots of fun for children (and grown ups) at Walby Farm Park, Crosby on Eden, near Carlisle. With a myriad of daily activities, animals galore to see and pet and the fabulous indoor playbarn, Walby is also promising Summer Shenanigans to follow hot on the heels of the National Festival Circus which will be performing daily until July 30th. Check out www.walbyfarmpark.co.uk for more information.

In Keswick, the Derwent Pencil Museum is back in business after fighting back from the floods. Broadcaster John Craven marked its official opening just a few weeks ago.

Maryport, meanwhile, is home to Clip and Climb at The Wave Centre. Great fun whatever the weather.

Finally, make sure you don't miss out on a slithering summer spectacle at The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven. Every Saturday during the summer, there will be three handling sessions featuring snakes and reptiles for visitors to the four storey museum to enjoy. See www.thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk for more details.

For many more ideas visit www.golakes.co.uk.