When you hear the word 'Cumbria', what do you imagine?
Someone canoeing on an idyllic lake or running up the side of a fell? Accurate for some, yes, but there's so much more on offer.
Do you prefer watching an arthouse film, eating in a fine restaurant, mooching around a historic landmark, or throwing your hands in the air at a festival? That's ok, too.
You don't have to be an outdoor enthusiast to enjoy Cumbria.
Culture in Cumbria
With over 100 major festivals held in Cumbria every year, including The Lakes International Comic Art Festival, Kendal Mountain Festival, Taste Cumbria food festivals, and Ulverston’s Dickensian Festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Enjoy the cultural side of Cumbria with theatre performances, gigs and lively bars, as well as a range of venues and nightlife across the county.
Food for thought
Cumbria boasts three Michelin stars, with renowned chef Simon Rogan at L'Enclume, rising star Kevin Tickle at The Forest Side, and TV find Hrishikesh Desai at Gilpin Hotel and Lake House, delighting diners in the region. Foodies can also attend Taste Cumbria festivals, which take place throughout the year and feature local produce from bakers, farmers and more.
A breath of fresh air
Do you prefer fell running to festivals? Well, there’s plenty to excite outdoor enthusiasts in the region, including The Lakesman triathlon.
The Lake District offers the best natural outdoor terrain in the UK for outdoors and adventure activities. As well as the fells and lakes - the highest mountain and deepest lake in the UK no less - the Lake District is home to climbing centres, underground tunnels and treetop treks so you can make the most of living close to the beautiful National Park.
Read more about Cumbria's outdoor activitiesThe Lakesman triathlon
