A new operator has been chosen to manage the UK’s first national park visitor centre.
Brockhole, the 30 acre site near Ambleside, was run as a not for profit attraction by the Lake District National Park Authority until being offered to private operators last year after facing ‘a significant loss’ according to chief executive Gavin Capstick.
Nine members of staff were made redundant.
The Windermere-side site was bought by the LDNPA in 1966 and it opened in 1969 as the UK’s first national park visitor centre.
In March last year a long-term lease was offered and a selection process to find a new operator began.
Business Crack has been told an un-named operator has now been chosen by a delegation of LDNPA members and contract details are being finalised.
“Operators were required to demonstrate a suitable and responsible use of the site in their proposal, reflecting the authority’s purpose to support public access, understanding and enjoyment of the national park.
“At the authority meeting in September 2025 members reviewed the shortlist and held a robust discussion to consider options,” Pete Notley, head of resources for the Lake District National Park Authority, said. “This resulted in a unanimous vote on a preferred bidder. We have started commercial negotiations and this work is ongoing.”
He added: “In the meantime, Brockhole continues to be open and offer a warm welcome to visitors and locals; with school trips, Zip World and Windermere Lake Cruises unaffected by proposals.”
