Five organisations and events have been named as among those sharing £10,000 from an event which showcases Cumbria’s hospitality sector.
The grant announcement comes as final preparations for next month’s Lakes Hospitality Trade Show at the J36 Rural Auction Centre at Crooklands are finalised.
Proceeds generated through the show go back into the tourism and hospitality sector, with more than £30,000 from previous years already helping to support 16 events which support Cumbria’s visitor economy.
Recipients this year are:
- Bluebird K7 – The Festival (The Ruskin Museum)
- Fells and Flow Festival, Ullswater (Lake District Foundation)
- Festival of the Lake, Windermere (Lakeland Arts)
- Egremont Crab Fair
- Carlisle Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival
To qualify for funding, applicants planning an event between April 2026 and March 2027 were asked to demonstrate how they would will benefit the Cumbrian economy and achieve significant visitor impact for the county.
“The aim of these grants is to help key visitor events grow and prosper for the benefit of both our economy and local communities,” says James Tasker, a director of the Lakes Hospitality Association.
“One of our underlying principles is ploughing money back into the industry, so we can help give businesses and supply chain companies the practical support they need to thrive in challenging times.”
The Lakes Hospitality Show will be held on February 25 and February 26 and is expected to draw around 1,800 visitors and 150 exhibitors.
Highlights this year include The Rogan Academy, The English Lakes Culinary Academy, the Bay School of Hospitality and Kendal College who will host live cooking demonstrations, tasting sessions and discussions on industry training needs.
