Cumbria ready to welcome visitors this Bank Holiday
Written by John Williamson on 24/08/2021
With the country preparing to enjoy the first Bank Holiday weekend since COVID-19 restrictions eased Cumbria Tourism is working hard to highlight all corners of the county as the perfect place to visit responsibly.
As Cumbria’s official Destination Management Organisation (DMO), Cumbria Tourism is encouraging visitors to plan ahead and make the most of the area’s lesser-known gems this summer.
“We know how much people can’t wait to get away” says Gill Haigh, Cumbria Tourism MD, “and with so much to explore and enjoy across Cumbria it really is the perfect place to be. Whilst the county is of course famous for scenery and heritage of the Lake District there’s so much more just waiting to be discovered.”
- Beach-lovers can make the most of the fabulous Cumbrian Coast, with plenty to explore at Allonby, St Bees and elsewhere perfectly complemented by attractions such as Senhouse Roman Museum, the Beacon and the Ravenglass-Eskdale Railway.
- Cumbria Tourism’s brand-new Cumbrian Coastal Route 200 is the perfect way to experience the area by motorhome. The guide also highlights responsible overnight camping locations and includes a code of conduct for those new to the pursuit.
- Walkers can be inspired by the trails around the Eden Valley and North Pennines. Whether looking for a long-distance challenge such as the Coast to Coast or Pennine Way trails, or a day hike to enjoy Mallerstang or High Cup Nick before enjoying some warm Cumbrian hospitality, there’s a challenge for everyone.
- Adrenaline junkies can’t miss the return of the Barrow Super Soapbox Challenge on the 29th August. With the first run of the day due to be taken by Eddie the Eagle himself racers will be competing to clinch the top spot.
- Carlisle’s award-winning International Market will be returning to the city centre, spoiling shoppers with a huge range of authentic continental treats. Nearby, the many forts and museums of Hadrian’s Wall offer a fantastic day out for all the family.
Of course, the fells, waters and meres of the Lake District will attract many looking to enjoy the great outdoors, and the DMO is working with partners including the county’s Tactical Visitor Management Group (TVMG) to help manage travel around key areas and provide the best possible experience for visitors and locals. New car-free options include shuttle buses at Wasdale and Buttermere, a park and sail service on Derwentwater and reduced family tickets around Ullswater. The Lake District National Park’s Safer Lakes website also provides a clear indication of where best to park on a given day.
With many looking forward to strapping on their walking boots or testing out a new paddle board the DMO is also working to limit the already rare chances of accidents occurring. As part of the AdventureSmart initiative alongside the Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association and others positive and informative messages are being directed to visitors through physical advertisements, social media and new safety videos aimed at individual sports.
“Cumbria is the ideal location to enjoy the great outdoors” concludes Gill Haigh. “By bearing a few simple points in mind there’s an adventure to match every ability level as our visitors create lifelong happy memories. Wherever you visit this Bank Holiday, don’t forget to plan ahead to enjoy the best possible experience”
Those looking to book a last-minute break can find their perfect place to be at www.visitlakedistrict.com
