Tourism Minister visits Cumbria

Nigel Huddleston MP speaking to local representatives aboard an Ullswater ‘Steamer’. L-R Jim Walker (Cumbria Tourism chair), Nigel Huddleston MP, Daniel Holder (The Quiet Site), Laura Ruxton (National Trust) and Peter Hensman (Lake District Estates)

Tourism Minister Nigel Huddleston MP was in Cumbria this week to meet with business and discuss the wider reopening of the visitor economy.

Organised by Cumbria Tourism, the trip showcased a wide-ranging Cumbrian experience, both inside and outside the Lake District National Park, and the variety and quality of food and drink, accommodation, culture, heritage and adventure activities set within the dramatic background of the county’s lakes and mountains.

The trip started at the Lingholm Estate near Keswick where the minister met various business owners from the area as well as some furry alpacas.

Nigel Huddleston MP at Alpacaly Ever After CIC, near Keswick

Next stop was Pooley Bridge where Mr Huddleston saw the new award-winning bridge replacing the previous one washed away by Storm Desmond.

He also met with local business representatives from the village and wider Ullswater Valley before enjoying a Ullswater ‘Steamers’ ride on the lake.

Crossing over Kirkstone Pass, Mr Huddleston then visited Wordsworth Grasmere, the home of the eponymous poet, to meet the museum’s director and representatives from nearby Grasmere Gingerbread before enjoying lunch (provided by Storrs Hall Hotel) aboard a Windermere Lake Cruises service and ending the day with a visit to Levens Hall near Kendal.

Managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, said: “The Minister was hugely impressed by what he saw and found the discussions with business owners and local representatives very valuable.

“I am confident that we left him in no doubt that, despite the current challenges, the businesses and sectors that make up Cumbria’s visitor economy are fully focused on creating safe, world-class experiences and thereby playing a significant part in supporting the county and country’s recovery.

“I am also confident that the strong two-way communications between Cumbria Tourism and Government will continue to play a key role in informing and shaping government policy on behalf of our members and the wider sector.

“I would like to personally thank all the businesses and individuals for their support in arranging the day, they really pulled out all the stops to offer a wonderful example of Cumbrian hospitality. As visitors begin to return to the county, I know they’ll appreciate this world-class welcome.”

Posting on social media during and after his visit, the Minister highlighted the county’s appeal as a year-round, all-weather destination as well as recognising the efforts made by businesses and attractions to reopen safely in line with the current stage of the Government’s roadmap.

How lucky we are to have the beauty and grandeur of the Lake District so close and accessible.
A great place to visit in all weathers, all year.
Limited attractions & accommodation already open and more will reopen as we proceed with the roadmap.@lakedistrictnpa @cumbriatourism pic.twitter.com/01b7MgbUdG— Nigel Huddleston MP #GetTheJab (@HuddlestonNigel) April 28, 2021

The Minister met with the below Cumbrian businesses, with transport for the day provided by Mountain Goat Tours. COVID-secure protocols were followed throughout.