A popular Lake District mountain pass which has been shut for three months is set to reopen next week.

Access to the B5292 Whinlatter Pass via Braithwaite was stopped to enable flood defence work to be carried out on the road.

It has now been announced that it is due to reopen on Thursday, December 21.

The move will restore access to the popular Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre from both ends of the pass.

Adrian Jones, recreation and business manager for the Forestry Commission, which runs the visitor centre, said: “It’s been a tough time through the autumn and winter so we’re glad to be getting back to normal.”

He added that many visitors had continued to support the centre, following the 40-minute diversion to access the site for walking, cycling and buying Christmas trees.

Mr Jones added: “We’d like to thank our visitors and partners for making the long journey round to the forest.”

There are lots of things to do at Whinlatter, from fun family walks to more strenuous activities to burn off Christmas calories.

Cyclewise have a range of bikes to hire, from hardtail mountain bikes to pedal assist electric bikes.

Walking or cycling, a visit to the forest provides scenic views looking up to Grisedale Pike and over to Skiddaw.

Whinlatter Parkrun happens every Saturday morning, and there will be a New Year’s Day Parkrun to start 2019 with a bang. The event is free to take part in.

Running until January 6, The Highway Rat trail gives families the chance to enjoy a walk with a difference.

Youngsters can explore the forest trail with their grown ups while searching for characters from the Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler book.

There are activities to complete on the trail, and visitors are encouraged to post pictures of The Highway Rat or his wanted poster, if they spot them, on Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #TheHighwayRat!

There is also a change to refuel with everything from home-baked goodies to seasonal meals at the on-site Siskins cafe.

The site’s new children’s activity trail, Zog, will launch for February half term. More information will be released about the trail nearer the launch date.

For more details about services and events happening at Whinlatter Forest visit forestryengland.uk/whinlatter