Diana Matthews

Diana Matthews was a magistrate for more than 30 years. She also took on the role of High Sheriff between 2013 and 2014.

Diana has a wealth of charity experience as a trustee of the Wordsworth Trust; Patron of the Lakeland Arts Trust; Trustee of Cumbria Gardens Trust and a Trustee of Cooper Pattinson's Trust Homes.

Diana Matthews has a long standing and deep rooted connection with the Lake District, not least through her family home at Rayrigg Hall on the shores of Windermere (the home of the slave abolitionist, William Wilberforce).

Latest

Poster Competition

Friends of the Lake District is 90 years old! To celebrate our birthday, we want to develop a vision for Cumbria’s landscapes for the next 90 years and we're asking children and young people to help us by designing a poster to show how they want the landscape to look.
17 April 2024: Clean stones and corners at Mazonwath

It was the first dry day in months for the workparty at Mazonwath, which meant there was plenty of work to be done on the dry stone walls.
Postcard From the Lakes: April 2024

Our Elterwater protest rally made print, TV and radio news headlines. Thanks to everyone who came along. Thank you also to our amazing volunteers, recycling tree tubes at Gillside and Rusland woods, and took part in our Great Cumbrian Litter Pick.
Cumbria & Lakeland Walker Magazine

3-issue subscription to Cumbria and Lakeland Walker magazine for only £1.00

Tristan Ponsonby

Development Trust Member
Kate Blue

Development Trust Member
Become a Benefactor

Benefactors are members who make a pledge to donate extra every year to help protect the Lake District and Cumbria.
David Kitchen

Development Trust Member
Norman Clarkson

Development Trust Member
Vice President - John Campbell

A long time connection with the Lake District living locally near Troutbeck, and having had family in Langdale. Supporter of Lakeland Arts Trust and other local bodies.
The Right Hon. The Lord Inglewood

Chairman of Friends of the Lake District Development Trust

Volunteering

Learn new skills and join our army of volunteers helping us to make a practical difference to the Lake District all year round.
Join Today

Play your part in protecting the Lake District by becoming a member today.
Our Purpose

We are an independent charity and the only membership organisation dedicated to protecting and enhancing Cumbria's landscapes for future generations
Elterwater Quarry Adventure Attraction plans resubmitted

Just before Christmas, revised proposals were submitted for a visitor attraction at Elterwater Quarry. We have reviewed the plans, we remain opposed to the scheme, and you can read our formal response here.
The Helm

Situated near Oxenholme, just south east of Kendal, and although not a very high hill at 185m, it gives beautiful views.
It's Time To Save Roanhead - Response Guidance

A NEW planning application has been submitted for the major resort development proposed at Roanhead. It will still have a huge impact on this sensitive coastline, even with a reduced number of lodges. Please join us again to challenge the proposal. Previous responses won't count and new responses need to reflect latest plans.
Aerial Flight at Honister Slate Mine

We received the disappointing news that the Secretary of State will not ‘call in’ the proposed zip-wires at Honister and so the Authority’s approval stands. The Secretary of State is no longer required to give reasons for his decision.
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.
What are the disadvantages of being in a National Park?
High Borrowdale

High Borrowdale is situated 8.5 miles north of Kendal. The best way to access it is from the A6, south of Shap. There is open access at all times. Take a VIRTUAL TOUR