Despite this year’s Keswick Mountain Festival attracting 20,000 people to the town, its future is in doubt, organisers said.
The three-day event saw sports and outdoor activities, live music, inspirational speakers, food and drink, and exhibition and retail stands by outdoor brands as the town was bathed in sunshine.
The heart of the event was the festival village on the shores of Derwentwater, which was busy on all three days, and for two nights of entertainment on the main stage.
However, organisers warn that the festival’s future is in doubt unless it receives more support from local authorities.
A festival record number of more than 4,500 sporting participants challenged themselves across trail runs, hikes, triathlons, cycling sportives, open water swims, and adventure races. From nervous first-timers to seasoned athletes, there were standout moments of courage and achievement throughout the weekend.
This year also saw a first-time collaboration with Kendal Mountain Festival, which brought its renowned Kendal Mountain Tour to Keswick.
The screening was a huge success, drawing a packed audience and adding a new cinematic flavour to a weekend of adventure and storytelling.
On Friday and Saturday evening, Keswick Mountain Festival’s iconic open-air stage lit up the lakeside with live music.
The highlight of the weekend was on Saturday night when Norman Jay MBE turned the festival into a dancefloor with his legendary Good Times DJ set.
The speaker programme delivered plenty of powerful moments too – from mountaineering greats like Alan Hinkes OBE to homegrown adventurers and mental health champions.
Among the standout talks was Sunday Times journalist David Walsh, who captivated the crowd with his inside story on uncovering Lance Armstrong’s doping scandal.
Jamie Simpson, marketing director of Keswick Mountain Festival, said: “This year’s festival felt really special – full of life, emotion, and personal milestones across all our events.
” We saw up to 20,000 people come together to celebrate the outdoors in glorious weather – it genuinely felt like Costa del Keswick, with the lake shimmering and the sun lifting everyone’s spirits.
“We’re incredibly thankful to all who joined us, and to the amazing volunteers, sponsors, and partners who made it happen.
“To secure the festival’s future, we do hope that the local authority will be prepared to offer the support that this amazing event so clearly deserves.”
A Cumberland Council spokesman said: “We appreciate the value of events and cultural activities but also recognise how challenging it is find funding, particularly within the current economic climate.
“We work with event providers to give practical advice and support.
“We encourage all cultural event partners to seek external funding, through established grants schemes, and we will continue to work positively with them in the future.”
