EVAN Open Studios & Art Trail 2026
Fifty-four artists open studios and pop-up exhibitions across Cumbria from 5 to 20 September 2026 in a free county-wide art trail spanning Penrith, Eden, the North Pennines, Lake District and west coast.
Saturday 5 September 202600:00–23:59Across Cumbria
AgeAll ages; individual studios may have their own access arrangements
FormatCounty-wide open studios and art trail
OrganiserEden Valley Artistic Network (EVAN)
Choose a performance
1 upcoming
Open Studios & Art Trail - individual studio dates and times vary
Free entry
Worth It
Best approached as a series of small art-road-trip days rather than trying to collect all 54 locations. Pick one geographic cluster, check individual opening hours and leave time to talk to the artists.
EVAN Open Studios & Art Trail runs from 5 to 20 September 2026, giving visitors the chance to meet artists, see where work is made and buy directly from studios and pop-up exhibitions across Cumbria.
The free event involves 54 artists. Locations stretch from the edge of the North Pennines across the Eden Valley, through Lake District landscapes and towards the west coast, with a significant cluster around Penrith.
Art forms
The published event includes textiles, sculpture, jewellery, photography, glass, paintings, ceramics, prints and more.
Is it free?
Yes. There is no general admission charge. Artwork and other purchases are priced individually.
Do all studios open every day?
No. Individual studio dates and opening hours vary, so use the current EVAN guide/map before setting off.
How to plan
Choose a geographic cluster for each day instead of trying to cross the county repeatedly. The official EVAN map should be treated as the master source for individual opening times.
Penrith starting point
EVAN Gallery & Studios at 4 Corney Place, Penrith CA11 7PX is a useful physical starting point. The permanent gallery normally opens Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, although volunteer staffing can affect hours.
Rural travel
Some studios are remote. Mobile signal, narrow roads and parking vary, so save directions and opening details before leaving a reliable connection.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies by studio and pop-up venue. Check the individual location before travelling if step-free access, accessible parking or toilet facilities are essential.
Weather plan
Some travel is on rural roads and studios may be outdoors or in working spaces. Check weather and road conditions when planning remote locations.
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Read more about this event
Cumbria Open Studios 2026: EVAN Art Trail Map, Artists & Visitor Guide
The EVAN Open Studios & Art Trail runs from 5 to 20 September 2026 with 54 artists. Use this guide to plan the county-wide trail by area rather than spending the day zig-zagging across Cumbria.