We work to sustain the rich, diverse, living pattern of landscape, wildlife and culture that makes Cumbria and the Lake District unique

Join Us

Our Purpose

We are an independent charity and the only membership organisation dedicated to protecting and enhancing Cumbria's landscapes for future generations

Published:

Author: Sophie Hodge

A Postcard from the Lakes

We’re replacing our monthly e-newsletter with this weekly update to share ideas and to help keep you connected with the countryside, and keep you occupied at home in these challenging times.

Published:

Author: Chris James

Why become a member?

Love the Lake District? Become a member of Friends of the Lake District and join thousands of people enjoying and protecting it.

Published:

Author: Sophie Hodge

Latest News

  • 20th October: What a difference a week makes!

    Dan from DB Contracts (pictured) and Nick worked long hours last week to try and beat the rain forecast. Instead of a muddy highway, the new path now looks like a graded path fitting more naturally into the contours of the banking. Read more

  • Luge Track and Chair Lift Proposal in the Eden Valley

    Residents of Armathwaite, situated in the tranquil Eden Valley could face the prospect of a luge track, chair lift and associated buildings on neighbouring Blaze Fell if a recent development proposal submitted to Eden District Council is given the go-ahead. Read more

  • Dam Mire Wood, Threlkeld

    We have been gifted a two hectare piece of land by member and Threlkeld resident Prof Mike Hambrey. The generous gift makes this our most northerly piece of land and work is now underway building a bridge to cross Kilnhow Beck and creating a path so that it can be accessed and enjoyed by all. Read more

  • Get Outside in the Westmorland Dales

    Presenter Debbie North promotes outdoor adventures for all in a new film Get Outside in the Westmorland Dales. Read more

What's on

  • Dark Skies of Staveley woodland walk

    Come and explore Staveley woodlands at night. The walk is approximately 3 miles and weather permitting we'll stop for some amazing night sky views, star gazing and a chat about light pollution impact on our wildlife. Read more

    Start:

    End:

    Published:

    Updated:

    Author:

    Location: Dorothy Farrar Wood, Hall Lane, Staveley, Cumbria

    Share this page

  • Intrastellar installation

    Created to celebrate the dark skies in the Lake District, the installation 'intrastellar' will be open for one night at Grizedale Forest as part of Cumbria’s second Dark Skies Festival. This floating artwork responds to the mirrored surface of the water forming a spectacular interaction between the stars and the illuminated spheres on Grizedale Tarn. Read more

    Start:

    End:

    Published:

    Updated:

    Author:

    Location: Grizedale, Forestry Commission Visitor Centre, Grizedale Forest, Hawkshead, LA22 0QJ

    Share this page

  • Dark Skies fell walk, Coniston

    This Dark Sky walk has it all; remote open fell land, stepping stones over a bubbling beck, paths alongside the beautiful Beacon Tarn and a 255m peak with stunning 360° views that overlook Coniston Water, the Old Man of Coniston, the western Lakes fells and of the Duddon Estuary. Read more

    Start:

    End:

    Published:

    Updated:

    Author:

    Location: Brown Howe Car Park A5084 , Coniston, LA12 8DW

    Share this page

  • Dark Skies Pastel Workshop, Glenridding

    Celebrate our dark skies with relaxing pastels classes, by local landscape artist and curator, Emma Hunt. In a beautiful venue, Emma will demonstrate simple techniques to expand your repertoire, or to simply have fun as a complete beginner. Read more

    Start:

    End:

    Published:

    Updated:

    Author:

    Location: Glenridding Village Hall, Glenridding, Penrith , CA11 0PA

    Share this page

Projects and Campaigns

  • The Westmorland Dales Landscape Partnership Scheme

    The Westmorland Dales Landscape Partnership Scheme aims to unlock and reveal the hidden heritage of the Westmorland Dales, enabling more people to connect with, enjoy and benefit from this inspirational landscape. Read more

  • Dark Skies Cumbria

    Find out more about our project to get the Lake District recognised Dark Sky status - and how you can take part. Photo: Ben Bush Read more

  • Southern Boundary Extension

    A proposal to Extend the Boundary of the Lake District National Park between Grange-over-Sands and the Irish Sea Coast at Silecroft to Provide Statutory Protection to a High Quality Landscape Read more