Friends of the Lake District Annual Review 2023/24

Welcome to the Friends of the Lake District Annual Review, a snapshot of everything we have been up to between January 2023 and March 2024. Read it as a flip book or download it as a PDF.

If you want to support our work to protect and enhance Cumbrian and Lake District landscapes, why not become a member or make a donation?

Latest

2023 – Cumbria Good Lighting Technical Advice Note is launched
11 Sept 2024: Woodlands and watering cans

Autumn has arrived and so Jan and our volunteers head to Greenbank Wood in Ambleside, where they discover a few hidden treasures in the undergrowth.
Our History

Friends of the Lake District began at a rally in a park in Keswick in 1934, initially to campaign for the creation of a Lake District National Park, which they achieved in 1951. Many other battles have been fought since and continue today, to protect the landscapes of Cumbria.
Postcard From the Lakes: September 2024

This month our CEO jumps aboard a community run bus in Ullswater. We also news of many forthcoming events, such as a hedgerow planting volunteer day, mammal and track training, and our annual Kirby Lecture.

Our History

Friends of the Lake District began at a rally in a park in Keswick in 1934, initially to campaign for the creation of a Lake District National Park, which they achieved in 1951. Many other battles have been fought since and continue today, to protect the landscapes of Cumbria.
90th birthday patch - Friends for 90 Years

Looking for a way to mark our 90th Birthday? Why not show your support and treat yourself to a limited edition 90th Birthday patch which features the beautiful landscape of High Borrowdale.
Mike Houston interview

Mike Houston worked for the Friends as our lead officer for 17 years, from 1976 to 1993. An interview about his time with the Friends that we published in our members' magazine for our 80th anniversary.
1934: Friends of the Lake District is set up to campaign for the creation of national parks
1930s onwards: Working hard for our native woodlands
1949: Overhead power lines in national parks are placed underground
1951: Lake District National Park created
1980s: Wasdale and Ennerdale saved from damming to provide water for Sellafield
2011 onwards: Educating and involving people in caring for our landscapes
2014: Over £1 Million invested in the environment in Cumbria

Volunteering

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

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

Play your part in protecting the Lake District by becoming a member today.
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 of Morecambe Bay and over Kendal to the Lake District fells. Fell ponies and cattle help us with conservation grazing at the Helm.
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.
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.
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.
What are the disadvantages of being in a National Park?
High Borrowdale

High Borrowdale is situated 8.5 miles north of Kendal, where we've planted trees, hedges and created new upland hay meadows. The best way to access it is from the A6, south of Shap. There is open access at all times and if you can't physically visit it, why not take a virtual tour?