Live, Work and Study in The Lake District, Cumbria

Welcome to Cumbria – England’s Natural Heartbeat

Hello, I’m Gemma Dawe, founder of Lake District Relocation, and if you’re thinking about a move to Cumbria, let me be the first to say: you’re in the right place.

Nestled in the North-West of England, Cumbria is where life slows down but never stands still. It’s where you’ll find England’s highest mountain (Scafell Pike), its deepest lake (Wastwater) and its longest lake (Windermere). It’s where Beatrix Potter found her inspiration, William Wordsworth wrote about “a heart that watches and receives,” where icons like Tom Cruise, on seemingly impossible missions throw themselves out of planes and where Cumberland Sausage and Kendal Mint Cake became household names.

We’re proudly home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the breathtaking English Lake District and the Roman wonder of Hadrian’s Wall. There’s also more than 100 miles of coastline, 214 Wainwights, the rolling Pennines, and part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. And while this sounds vast and remote, don’t be fooled. It’s surprisingly well connected and just a short train ride from major UK cities.

With a population of around 498,000 people, Cumbria is England’s most sparsely populated county at just 73 people per km² (compared to 438 in Kent!). This means more space, more nature, more breathing room… and far less traffic. So yes, there’s definitely room for you here.

But Cumbria isn’t only about open landscapes and quiet moments. Life here can be as vibrant or as gentle as you choose. For those who thrive on activity, there are endless opportunities to get outdoors, from hiking and cycling to paddleboarding and fell running — with dramatic scenery as your backdrop. Evenings bring choice too: enjoy the warmth of traditional pubs, stylish bars, or intimate live music venues in the city of Carlisle and vibrant towns like Kendal. If you prefer a slower pace, you’ll find it in the market towns and villages, where life flows around coffee shops, artisan bakeries, and neighbours who still know each other’s names. And for food lovers, Cumbria is a true culinary destination, with cosy gastro pubs, award-winning restaurants, and no fewer than 15 Michelin stars (2026) making it one of the UK’s most celebrated dining regions.
 

A Lifestyle for Every Pace

Adventure on your doorstep, or a gentler pace when you want it.

If you crave the outdoors, Cumbria is your personal playground. Known as the UK’s capital of adventure, this is where you can lace up your boots for fell walking, wild swimming, mountain biking, paddleboarding, sailing, or even rock climbing on crags that climbers travel worldwide to experience. Cycling routes wind through valleys and over mountain passes, including the infamous Kirkstone Pass and Hardknott, which test even the most seasoned riders. The county regularly welcomes professional cyclists too, with the Tour of Britain often passing through the Lake District and two stages of the 2027 Tour de France passing through the county.

Cumbria also has a proud tradition of endurance racing. The Lakeland 50 and Lakeland 100 ultra-marathons attract competitors from across the globe, testing runners over rugged terrain, with views that make the challenge unforgettable. Add to that dozens of fell races held each year, from short, sharp village races to iconic climbs like the Grisedale Horseshoe or Borrowdale Fell Race and it’s clear why Cumbria is a magnet for those who live to push their limits. Keswick and Ambleside in particular are renowned hubs for fell running, with clubs, shops, and communities that revolve around the sport.

For water lovers, Windermere and Ullswater are perfect for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while Derwentwater and Coniston Water provide spectacular backdrops for triathlons and open-water swims. On the coast, kitesurfers and wild swimmers take to the Irish Sea, especially around St Bees and the Solway Firth. Every corner of Cumbria has its own sport or adventure waiting for you.

But life here isn’t just about endurance. It’s also about balance. In Carlisle, Cumbria’s only city, nightlife thrives with pubs, cocktail bars, live music venues, and a buzzing student scene thanks to the University of Cumbria. Comedy clubs, theatre performances, and big-name concerts bring extra energy to the city year-round. Just south of the county, Lancaster offers a vibrant university scene too, with comedy nights, student bars, clubs, and live music creating a lively cultural mix that appeals to young professionals as much as students.

If you’d rather take things slower, Cumbria makes that possible too. Many residents choose a gentler lifestyle: walking to the local market town for fresh produce, relaxing with a coffee in an artisan café, or enjoying long Sunday lunches in traditional pubs. Whether you prefer a bustling hub like Kendal or a quiet valley village, you can set the pace of your life to suit yourself.
 

Not Just Mountains and Lakes

Cumbria is famous for its fells and waters, but that’s only the start of the story. Beyond Windermere and Scafell Pike, there are dozens of towns, villages and landscapes that rarely make the guidebooks yet make living here so rewarding.

Take the Solway Coast, for example. Designated as a National Landscape, it’s a stretch of coastline where you’ll find big skies, birdlife, and wide sandy beaches that feel a world away from the central Lakes. Places like Silloth and Allonby are steeped in Victorian seaside charm, while the sunsets here are some of the best in the UK.

Head west to Egremont and St Bees, where coastal paths hug dramatic cliffs, and the sand at St Bees Head marks the official start of the Coast-to-Coast walk. The Furness Peninsula in the south offers another flavour again: market towns like Ulverston, famous for its festivals and as the birthplace of Stan Laurel.

Topping the Furness Peninsula and with the sea on three sides and the Lakes on the other, the bustling Victorian town of Barrow-in-Furness makes the most of its enviable location. There’s some great walking and cycling routes that start in the town centre, whose wide streets lined with impressive sandstone buildings are evidence of the town’s 19th century prosperity as one of the country’s major shipbuilding centres. 

There's also a vibrant array of nature and wildlife to enjoy. A visit to Walney Island is a must: it's home to the North and South Walney Nature Reserves, the latter of which is home to Cumbria's only grey seal colony. It's also a great place for bird watching. 

Piel Island is just a 10-minute ferry ride and is famous for its 14th-century castle, a remote 300-year old pub and the quirky tradition of crowning a 'King of Piel'.

But not all of Cumbria’s hidden treasures are coastal. The Eden Valley, tucked between the Lakes and the Pennines, is one of the county’s best-kept secrets.  Picture-postcard villages like Kirkoswald and Lazonby, it’s perfect for those who want green space without tourist crowds. 

To the south-east, Kirkby Lonsdale straddles the borders of Cumbria, Lancashire and the Yorkshire Dales. Known for its cobbled streets, Georgian buildings, and the famous Ruskin’s View, it has a chic yet traditional atmosphere and a lively mix of boutiques, bakeries and pubs. Many people relocating here choose Kirkby Lonsdale for its balance: stylish enough to appeal to younger families and professionals, but with a deep-rooted sense of community.

Even within the Lake District National Park, there are corners that surprise newcomers. Eskdale is a quiet valley with its own narrow-gauge railway, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, and a slower pace of life. Ennerdale, often overlooked, is one of the wildest and least-developed valleys, perfect for those seeking true peace. Buttermere, meanwhile, is a postcard come to life - two lakes, soaring peaks, and a village that feels timeless.
So yes, Cumbria is mountains and lakes. But it’s also coastlines, market towns, hidden valleys, and vibrant communities where you’ll quickly feel at home.
 

Working Life in Cumbria

Relocation isn’t just about scenery, it’s about building a sustainable life.

Job prospects are excellent here, with opportunities ranging from tourism, hospitality and outdoor adventure, to education, agriculture, national defence, nuclear and renewable energy, creative industries and tech.

Household names like BAE Systems, Eddie Stobart, Associated British Ports, Kimberly-Clark, Toshiba, Nestlé and Heinz employ thousands here, while a thriving visitor economy supports hundreds of small independent businesses.

There’s something here for every stage of life:

• Younger professionals can start careers, apprenticeships or graduate roles while living in beautiful surroundings.
• Families find strong schools and shorter commutes.
• Semi-retirees and career changers often move here for part-time or seasonal work in tourism, hospitality, heritage or Charity work, seeking a healthier work-life balance.

And if you’ve always dreamed of being your own boss, this is the perfect place to make it happen from running a boutique B&B to opening a deli, a creative studio, or even a country hotel.
 

Built on Small Businesses

Cumbria has always been a county of self-starters. More than 90% of businesses here are classed as small or micro enterprises, employing fewer than 10 people. From artisan food producers to craftspeople, farm shops to digital start-ups, these businesses form the backbone of the local economy. The entrepreneurial spirit runs deep, shaped by a landscape where communities have always relied on one another to thrive.

Support networks like Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and local enterprise agencies help new ideas to grow, but it’s the community itself that makes the real difference. People here want to see local businesses succeed. From buying produce at weekly farmers’ markets to supporting independent cafés, bookshops, and galleries, there’s a strong culture of choosing local first.

Food and Drink: A County of Culinary Excellence

If food is your passion, Cumbria is one of the UK’s most exciting places to build a career. With 15 Michelin stars (2026), this county has the highest concentration of top-tier restaurants outside London. From Simon Rogan’s globally renowned L’Enclume in Cartmel to hidden gems like Cottage in the Wood, near Keswick, there’s a thriving food culture here that blends innovation with tradition.

The food and drink sector accounts for thousands of jobs in Cumbria, and it isn’t just about fine dining. Local breweries, artisan bakeries, chocolatiers, coffee roasters, and farm shops all contribute to a rich culinary ecosystem. Many businesses start small - a kitchen table venture or a stall at a local market, before expanding into award-winning enterprises supported by loyal communities and a constant flow of visitors.
 

A Community That Backs You

Perhaps what makes Cumbria truly unique for working life is the strength of its communities. This is a place where people know their neighbours, where word of mouth still matters, and where collaboration is second nature. Entrepreneurs often speak of the “Cumbrian lift” — the way local people go out of their way to recommend, buy from, and support independent businesses. For anyone considering a relocation with the dream of starting something new, that kind of support can make all the difference.
 

Remote and Flexible Working: The Best of Both Worlds

Since Covid, flexible and remote working have opened the door for more people to relocate to Cumbria. Many now choose the county for its slower pace of life and inspiring scenery, while still keeping one foot in the city. With more jobs allowing hybrid patterns, it’s possible to enjoy evenings overlooking the fells and still be in the boardroom or at client meetings when needed.

Excellent transport links make this balance realistic. Oxenholme Lake District and Penrith stations sit on the West Coast Main Line, with direct trains to London in under three hours, Manchester in just over an hour, and fast routes north to Glasgow and Edinburgh in under two. Manchester Airport is also within easy reach by train or a 90-minute drive, connecting you to the rest of the world. It means professionals and families can live among the lakes and mountains while still accessing major cities - truly the best of both worlds.
 

Studying in Cumbria

For families considering a move, education is often at the heart of the decision. Cumbria offers something unique: access to good schools without the stress and long waiting lists found in many busy UK cities. Here, you really do have your pick of the bunch.

At primary level, the county is home to dozens of highly rated village and town schools where class sizes are often smaller, and pupils enjoy more individual attention. Many families relocating here are pleasantly surprised at how quickly their children settle into welcoming school communities. Alongside the state system, Cumbria also has a strong independent sector, with respected names such as Sedbergh School and Windermere School offering day and boarding options.

Secondary education is equally well provided for. Schools across the county offer a broad curriculum and strong results, with excellent sixth form provision in market towns like Kendal, Keswick, and Penrith. Because there’s less pressure on places than in urban centres, families moving here often comment on how refreshing it is to choose a school based on fit rather than availability. 

Learning in Cumbria doesn’t end when the school bell rings. Children and teenagers grow up with an unrivalled outdoor classroom on their doorstep: climbing, sailing, kayaking, fell running and mountain biking. After-school clubs range from sports and drama to music and outdoor pursuits, giving young people opportunities to thrive both academically and personally.

Further Education colleges are located in Barrow, Carlisle, Kendal and Workington, all offering vocational courses to encourage young people into the local job market.

At university level, Cumbria is home to the University of Cumbria, England’s newest university, which offers hundreds of courses across campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, and London. Its close ties with local industries provide students with real-world experience and graduate pathways into healthcare, teaching, business, and the creative arts. Just outside the county, Lancaster University consistently ranks among the UK’s top ten universities, offering world-class teaching and research within easy reach of the South Lakes.

For families or students alike, Cumbria offers the chance to study in an environment that’s safe, inspiring, and supportive  with the space to breathe and the freedom to grow.
 

Food, Festivals and Fun

Life in Cumbria is about so much more than scenery. Living here means you’re never short of something to taste, experience, or celebrate.

Cumbria now boasts 15 Michelin stars (2026), more than any county outside London; putting it firmly on the map as a culinary destination. Cartmel is home to L’Enclume, Simon Rogan’s three-star restaurant consistently ranked among the best in the world. Across the county, restaurants such as Allium at Askham Hall, Farlam Hall in Bramptom, Cottage in the Wood near Keswick, Pentonbridge Inn north of Carlisle, and SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel all prove that exceptional food can be found in even the quietest corners.

Beyond Michelin stars, Cumbria thrives on small-scale excellence. Family-run farm shops, artisan bakeries, smokehouses, and cheesemakers supply a growing food culture that celebrates the county’s natural larder. Local delicacies like Grasmere Gingerbread, Cumberland sausage, Herdwick lamb, Cartmel sticky toffee pudding, and Kendal Mint Cake tell the story of place as much as flavour. Beer lovers are spoiled too, with dozens of independent breweries such as Keswick Brewery, Jennings Brewery near Penrith, and Bowness Bay Brewing to name just a few, hosting tastings and events throughout the year.
 

Festivals to Fill Your Calendar

Festivals are woven into Cumbria’s DNA. The Keswick Mountain Festival and Kendal Mountain Festival attract international adventurers and film-makers, celebrating outdoor life through sports, talks, films, and live music. Beer enthusiasts flock to events such as the Keswick Beer Festival and Amblefest in Ambleside, where local breweries showcase their finest ales. Food festivals in places like Cockermouth, Kendal and Penrith bring together chefs, growers and artisans in lively street markets.

For culture lovers, the Lakes International Comic Art Festival in Kendal is a unique celebration of graphic storytelling, while Words by the Water at Theatre by the Lake in Keswick draws authors and readers from across the country. Music festivals and open-air concerts, from classical performances at Holker Hall to indie gigs in Carlisle, mean that weekends are rarely quiet.
 

A Thriving Arts Scene

The arts here are as diverse as the landscape. The Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal is one of the region’s most dynamic cultural venues, offering film, theatre, comedy and exhibitions. Smaller spaces such as the Dock Museum in Barrow, Abbot Hall in Kendal and the Rheged Centre near Penrith highlight the creativity of the county. Beyond galleries, Cumbria is dotted with artist studios, craft fairs, and open-studio trails that connect consumers directly with makers. 

Theatre by the Lake in Keswick and Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven host a busy programme of productions year-round.
 

Everyday Lifestyle in the Lakes

Perhaps what makes food, festivals, and arts in Cumbria so special is how naturally they slot into everyday life. It’s not unusual to spend a Saturday morning walking the fells, your afternoon at a food market or art exhibition, and your evening at a concert, pub quiz, or theatre show. Communities rally around these events, creating a lifestyle where culture and nature are never in competition they thrive side by side.

Living here means you don’t just attend festivals; you become part of them. Your local pub might sponsor a fell race, your neighbour might run a stall at the market, and chances are, you’ll know the brewer or baker whose products you’re enjoying. That sense of connection is what makes the Cumbrian lifestyle so rich.
 

---

So Where Should You Go?

This really depends on what you want from your new location. Cumbria offers everything from bustling market towns and lakeside villages to quiet valleys and coastal escapes. Prices vary depending on whether you’re in the heart of the National Park, on the fringe, or further out towards the coast, but lifestyle is always front and centre.
 

South Lakes – Lyth Valley & Lakeside, Kendal

This area gives you the best of both worlds: lively market town life in Kendal alongside tranquil villages in the Lyth Valley, with easy access to Windermere’s southern shore. Kendal is home to around 30,000 people and is a cultural hub, with the Brewery Arts Centre, independent shops, and festivals keeping things vibrant. The Lyth Valley is quieter and known for its damson orchards and gastropubs perfect for food lovers.

The town of Kendal is ideal for families and professionals who want connectivity (Oxenholme station gets you to London in under three hours) without sacrificing countryside charm, whereas the Cartmel Fell and Lyth Valley areas are more rural, suited to those seeking peace and a slower pace of life.

Tip: Crosthwaite Village School is one of the more sought-after schools in the local area – a rural community school that thrives on its surroundings. The same is true of Natland School, just outside Kendal, offering great wraparound care and a traditional village school feel.
 

---

Central Lake District – Ambleside, Langdale, Coniston

Living here means being at the very heart of the National Park and yes, you’ll pay a premium for it. Ambleside is one of the most active communities in the Lakes, filled with walkers, climbers, and students from the University of Cumbria’s Ambleside campus. Langdale is quieter but loved by climbers and outdoor enthusiasts for its crags and ridges, while Coniston blends heritage with water-based adventures on Coniston Water.

These areas are perfect for people who want to be immersed in an outdoor lifestyle, with fells, lakes, and trails quite literally on the doorstep. All of these locations are a stone’s throw from Grizedale Forest a haven for mountain bikers.

Tip: If you’re still making a daily commute, this area can be challenging as there’s generally one road in and one road out. But the reward is being surrounded by everything the Lake District has to offer.
 

---

Northern Lake District – Ullswater, Keswick, Threlkeld

The northern Lakes have a wilder, more spacious feel. Keswick is the cultural hub, with Theatre by the Lake, independent shops, and a year-round calendar of festivals and events. Ullswater attracts sailors and paddleboarders, with Glenridding and Pooley Bridge popular bases for water sports. Threlkeld sits at the base of Blencathra perfect for those who love mountain walking but want easy access to Keswick for amenities and nightlife.

This region is best for active families and adventurers who want strong community ties but slightly fewer crowds than the central Lakes. Prices in the northern Lakes tend to be lower, and the further north you go, the more value you’ll find. 

Penrith and Cockermouth serve as the main towns for the northern Lakes, offering everything you need hardware stores, garages, larger supermarkets, and high-street shops. Penrith also provides a mainline railway station with routes across the UK.

Tip: Places like Stainton and Greystoke are real hidden gems in my opinion.
 

Eden Valley & Pennines – Space and Value

The Eden Valley offers rolling farmland, riverside villages, and rugged Pennine landscapes. Penrith is the main hub with shops, schools, and train links to Manchester, London, and Scotland, while villages such as Appleby-in-Westmorland and Kirkoswald provide a more rural sense of solitude.

This area is ideal for those who want space, value, and peace – perfect for families who prefer a quieter pace or anyone dreaming of life in a rugged, less-touristy setting. Due to the higher elevation, the scenery can feel wild and dramatic; often, just outside the villages, you’ll find yourself surrounded by 360-degree views and not another soul in sight.

Tip: Armathwaite is a beautiful area with some of the most stunning views over Cumbria and the Eden Valley. It’s sometimes overlooked, but in my view, it’s where value truly meets beauty.
 

Western Lakes & Coast – Wild and Affordable

The west of Cumbria is where dramatic fells meet the Irish Sea. Whitehaven and Egremont are affordable options with strong community spirit, while Ravenglass and St Bees combine heritage with coastal living. This area is also close to major employers in energy, defence, and shipbuilding making it practical for careers.
For lifestyle, it’s ideal for those who want affordability, coastal views, and proximity to wild valleys like Wasdale and Ennerdale. The central Lake District is only a short drive away, and this side of the Lakes is often wonderfully quiet in the winter months. 

Maryport has seen a huge amount of investment recently and now benefits from exciting new developments including the brand new activity and leisure centre, a new events venue 'The Carlton' which will provide a focus for local culture – arts and crafts, music, theatre, and entertainment, and a fabulous new harbourside event space. 

Heritage holiday resort Silloth offers amazing views over the Solway Firth with sunsets, access to nature reserves and great walks and cycling opportunities. Its location also makes it easily commutable for Carlisle, the only city of Cumbria.

Tip: Whitehaven is a great base for walkers – within 20–30 minutes you can be exploring Loweswater and Ennerdale, two of the most peaceful lakes in Cumbria. Its Georgian harbour is full of character and a lovely spot to watch seabirds, seals, and the occasional dolphin along the coast.
 

South-East Fringe – Kirkby Lonsdale and Sedbergh

Stylish yet traditional, Kirkby Lonsdale has cobbled streets, Georgian buildings, and a lively café culture. With around 1,800 residents, it’s big enough to offer amenities yet small enough to feel close-knit. Its location on the borders of Cumbria, Lancashire, and the Yorkshire Dales makes it perfect for those seeking community, style, and excellent connectivity.

Or maybe you could consider Sedbergh - one of England’s leading book towns. It has bags of old world charm, its historic houses and cobbled streets the perfect complement to its extensive choice of speciality shops, and cafés, pubs and bistros serving locally sourced produce. 

There’s great choice for schools in this area. Queen Elizabeth School has a strong reputation among locals, and the area is also well known for its independent schools, such as Casterton Prep and Sedbergh Senior School. Smile Day Nursery in Biggins is popular with parents from the town and surrounding villages.

Tip: Kirkby Lonsdale has a fantastic rugby club at the heart of the community – a real gathering place for players and supporters alike. It’s a great way to meet people, get involved locally, and feel part of the town’s friendly, active spirit.
 

Carlisle – The Border City

Carlisle is Cumbria’s only city and its largest settlement, home to over 100,000 people. It blends a rich history with modern amenities, shopping, nightlife, and the University of Cumbria campus keep it vibrant. Rail links to Glasgow, Edinburgh, Newcastle, and London make it a commuter’s dream.

Carlisle offers a great balance not as busy as larger cities like Manchester, yet with everything you could want close at hand. It’s a city surrounded by culture, heritage, and countryside, with the Lake District National Park just a short journey away for weekend adventures.

Tip: The nightlife in Carlisle is fantastic we often travel up from the South Lakes to enjoy time with friends in the city. Professionally, it’s also a great place to meet business contacts.
 

Coastal Towns

Ulverston stands out for its festivals and creative community; Maryport and Workington for their maritime traditions; and Allonby, on the Solway Coast, for its sandy beaches and golden sunsets. Barrow-in-Furness is home to the UK’s world-class BAE Systems shipyard and a major centre for the defence industry Ulverston and its surrounding villages have become a popular choice for professionals working in this sector. With its beautiful cobbled high street, independent shops and cafés, and strong sense of community, Ulverston offers the perfect balance between connectivity and character. It’s small enough to know your neighbours, yet well connected, with easy access to the M6 and wider transport links.

Tip: The Solway Coast is perfect for nature lovers. It’s one of Cumbria’s quietest coastal stretches, ideal for peaceful walks and wildlife watching.
 

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

For me, Cumbria isn’t just where I live it’s where my heart is. I was born here, raised my child here, and my family has called the Lake District home for generations. It’s the place where mountains meet lakes, where communities still know each other, and where every season brings something new to enjoy. That’s why I’m always so excited to welcome people who are thinking about making Cumbria their home too.

I started Lake District Relocation to make that journey easier for buyers. Finding the right property here isn’t always straightforward, houses move quickly, some never make it to the open market, and every area has its own character. What I do is help you cut through the noise. I spend time getting to know what matters most to you, and then I become your eyes and ears on the ground. Sometimes that means videoing homes so you can see them before you make the trip, other times it means opening up areas you may never have thought of but that end up being the perfect fit.

Over the years, I’ve been privileged to be recognised nationally as one of the UK’s leading country Property Finders. I’ve advised high-net-worth individuals, worked on some of the region’s largest and most prestigious property transactions, and built strong connections with estate agents and local communities alike. That experience means I can open doors and opportunities for clients that might otherwise remain out of reach.
What I love most about my work is helping people not just buy a house, but find a home and a lifestyle that feels right for them. Whether that’s a cottage in a peaceful valley, a family home in a market town, or a base near the lakes for an active life outdoors, I’m here to guide you towards it. Relocating can feel daunting, but with someone local by your side who knows the landscape inside out, it becomes an exciting adventure instead.
So if you’re ready to begin your journey, I’d love to help you discover your place here in Cumbria  the place I’ve always been proud to call home.