Cumbria

Ullswater

Another stunning glacial lake in the northern Lake District, Ullswater offers breathtaking scenery and a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to boating and fishing. The surrounding area is also home to some of Cumbria's best pubs and restaurants.

Tarn Hows

A picturesque tarn nestled in the hills above Coniston, Tarn Hows offers stunning views of the surrounding fells and forests. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the tarn or hike the trails up into the surrounding hills.

WELCOME TO Cumbria

Province Overview

Main city

Carlisle

AREA

6,768 km²

POPULATION

498,000

Main language

English

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Lake District National Park

The Lake District National Park is one of the most stunning regions in England. Located in Cumbria, the park boasts 16 lakes, rugged mountains, and rolling hills, making it a popular destination for hiking, boating, and outdoor activities. Visitors can also explore charming villages, historic sites, and local cuisine.

Hadrian's Wall

Hadrian's Wall is an ancient Roman defensive wall that stretches across northern England, including Cumbria. Built in AD 122, the wall was once the northern frontier of the Roman Empire and today stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the wall and its associated forts and museums to learn about the region's rich history.

Scafell Pike

Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England, located in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. Standing at 978 meters, the summit offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including valleys, lakes, and mountains. Hiking to the summit is a challenging but rewarding experience that draws visitors from all over the world.

Political

Economy and Government

Cumbria is a predominantly rural county with a diverse economy. Agriculture and tourism are the two main industries, with the Lake District National Park attracting millions of visitors each year. Other important sectors include manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The county's largest employer is the Sellafield nuclear reprocessing plant, which provides thousands of jobs.

Cumbria is governed by a two-tier system, with a county council responsible for local services such as education, transportation, and waste management, and six district councils responsible for more localized services such as housing, planning, and environmental health. The county council is made up of 84 elected councillors who are responsible for making decisions on behalf of the county's residents.

In terms of national government, Cumbria is represented by three Members of Parliament (MPs), each representing one of the county's three constituencies: Barrow and Furness, Copeland, and Workington. Cumbria is also represented in the European Parliament as part of the North West England constituency.

Overall, Cumbria's economy and government reflect the unique challenges and opportunities of a rural county with a mix of industries and a rich cultural and historical heritage.

History

History and Culture

Cumbria has a rich history and culture that dates back thousands of years. The area was once inhabited by the Celtic tribe known as the Brigantes, who were conquered by the Romans in the 1st century AD. The region was also home to the Vikings and the Anglo-Saxons, who left their mark on the landscape and the local culture.

The county has a strong tradition of agriculture, which has shaped the local culture and economy. The Lake District, which covers a large part of Cumbria, has inspired poets, writers, and artists for centuries, including William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter, and John Ruskin.

Cumbria also has a rich industrial heritage, with a long history of mining, steel production, and shipbuilding. The county was also home to the world-famous Carlisle Biscuit Factory, which produced biscuits for the Royal Family.

Today, Cumbria is home to a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, galleries, and museums celebrating the region's heritage and contemporary art. The local cuisine is also a reflection of the county's history and culture, with traditional dishes such as Cumberland sausage, Kendal mint cake, and Grasmere gingerbread.

HOTELS

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House

A luxurious country house hotel located in the heart of the Lake District National Park. This hotel boasts beautiful gardens, a private lake, and exceptional dining experiences.

The Samling Hotel

An elegant and secluded hotel set in 67 acres of private grounds with breathtaking views of Lake Windermere. The Samling is renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurant and exceptional service.

Linthwaite House

A beautiful Edwardian country house hotel set in 14 acres of landscaped gardens. Linthwaite House offers luxurious accommodations, a fine-dining restaurant, and stunning views of Lake Windermere.

RESTAURANTS

L'Enclume

A Michelin-starred restaurant located in the picturesque village of Cartmel, L'Enclume offers an exceptional fine-dining experience that combines locally-sourced ingredients with innovative cooking techniques.

Forest Side

Another Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Forest Side offers a unique dining experience with a focus on sustainability and seasonality. The restaurant sources its ingredients from its own kitchen garden and local suppliers.

The Cottage in the Wood

This restaurant is set in a charming 17th-century coaching inn with stunning views of the Lake District countryside. The menu features modern British cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, and the restaurant has been awarded two AA Rosettes for its exceptional food and service.