The county’s biggest and best-known event, Kendal Calling, returned to Lowther Deer Park near Penrith between 27 and 30 July, welcoming the largest crowds so far in the festival’s 17-year history.
Over four days, 40,000 people gathered for performances by Nile Rodgers and CHIC, Kasabian, Blossoms, Royal Blood, Mel C, Rick Astley, Happy Mondays and dozens more across several stages.
The site officially became Cumbria’s third most densely populated centre for the weekend, with people from all over the UK and as far away as Hawaii enjoying the live music, arts and crafts, films, comedy and circus performances.
A-List actor and musician Kiefer Sutherland swapped LA for the Lakes to perform a set on the Parklands stage, with Frank Turner watching from the audience before his own performance later in the evening.
Other acclaimed acts performing over the weekend included Natalie Imbruglia, Example, Kaiser Chiefs and Professor Green.
Andy Smith, Co-Founder of Kendal Calling said, “The tents are now being packed away ready for their next festivity and the curtains have closed on what has been an exceptional 17th year in the fields of Kendal Calling.
“What makes this festival truly special is the real sense of community, and from Frank Turner joining Lottery Winners on their main stage debut, KT Tunstall teaming up with Rick Astley and Rick himself even jumping on percussion for a roaring performance of Charlemagne with Blossoms – the camaraderie stretched from the audience to the artists.
“With pop up performances, late night explorations and a secret set (or four) this year has been truly magical.
“From the bottom of our collective hearts, thank you to everyone who comes together to make these beautiful fields one of the happiest places on earth.”
The festival also highlighted local talent, with many Cumbrian artists, including Fat Dads, Hardwicke Circus, Melanie Baker and Flynt performing across the Yam Riot, Calling Out and Woodlands stages.
