Cumbria is a county in the north-west of England, known for its natural beauty, rich history and diverse economy. It is the second largest county in the UK, covering nearly 3,000 square kilometres of land, including two national parks, the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. Cumbria has a population of just under 500,000 people, who enjoy a high quality of life and a strong sense of community.
One of the main attractions of Cumbria is its stunning scenery, which offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors and residents alike. From hiking and cycling to sailing and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the county’s lakes, mountains, valleys and coastlines. Some of the most popular places to visit in Cumbria are Lake Windermere, the largest and most famous lake in England, Derwentwater, a picturesque lake surrounded by fells and forests, and Hill Top Farm, the former home of the beloved author Beatrix Potter.
Cumbria is also a place of culture and heritage, with a wealth of historic sites and museums to explore. The county has a rich legacy of Roman, Viking, medieval and industrial history, which can be seen in its castles, abbeys, churches and monuments. Some of the most notable examples are Hadrian’s Wall, the ancient frontier of the Roman Empire, Furness Abbey, a majestic ruin of a 12th century monastery, and Sellafield, the birthplace of the nuclear industry. Cumbria also has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with festivals, theatres, galleries and cinemas to suit all tastes.
Cumbria is not only a great place to visit, but also to live and work in. The county has a diverse and resilient economy, with sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, energy and education providing employment and opportunities for growth. Cumbria is home to over 23,000 active businesses, ranging from multinational corporations to small and medium enterprises, many of which are innovative and export-oriented. The county also has a skilled and motivated workforce, with a higher than average proportion of young people in apprenticeships and a strong tradition of entrepreneurship.
In conclusion, Cumbria is a county that offers a lot to its visitors and residents, in terms of natural beauty, cultural heritage and economic potential. It is a county that combines the best of both worlds, with a rural charm and an urban edge, a historic past and a dynamic future, a local identity and a global outlook. Cumbria is a county that is worth discovering, experiencing and celebrating.