The upcoming Lakes Hospitality Trade Show (25 and 26 February) is backing a standout line-up of high-profile visitor events across Cumbria with grant funding over the next 12 months.
The free, ‘must attend’ trade show of the hospitality calendar is expected to draw around 1,800 visitors and 150 exhibitors, making it one of the most significant industry showcases in Cumbria and the North of England – with a chance to network, innovate and build relationships which support business growth.
Proceeds generated through the show will go straight back into the tourism and hospitality sector, with more than £30,000 from previous years already helping to support 16 vibrant events which support Cumbria’s visitor economy and boost local community spirit.
This year five events will receive marketing grants from the Lakes Hospitality Trade Show’s shared pot of £10,000 for 2026. They 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 the funding, applicants planning an event between April 2026 and March 2027 were asked to demonstrate how their events will benefit the Cumbrian economy and achieve significant visitor impact for the county.
Each successful applicant will now draw on a package of PR and marketing delivered by Cumbria Tourism’s industry experts to promote their event.
“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.
“We’re working with Cumbria Tourism to deliver PR and marketing activity to support both well-established events – none more so than Egremont Crab Fair – alongside newer events which are reaching new audiences and spreading positive social, economic and cultural benefits right across the county. That includes Carlisle Cathedral’s Christmas Tree Festival, as well as the Fells and Flow Festival being spearheaded by the Lake District Foundation, and Lakeland Arts’ Festival of the Lake.
“The return of the iconic jet hydroplane Bluebird K7 to Coniston Water this Spring will also be a significant historic moment and one that we’re thrilled to help support!”
The grant announcement comes as final preparations for next month’s Lakes Hospitality Trade Show at the J36 Rural Auction Centre at Crooklands are well underway.
For 2026, The Rogan Academy, The English Lakes Culinary Academy, the Bay School of Hospitality and Kendal College will also host live cooking demonstrations, tasters and discussions on industry training needs.
Visitor registration for the Lakes Hospitality Trade Show is now open, with free entry and free parking for all attendees. Delegates should secure their tickets in advance online at: www.lakeshospitalitytradeshow.co.uk