Although famous for its world class landscape, The Western Lake District and Coast also boasts a multitude of fabulous independent shops, with plenty of retail therapy on offer in towns dotted along more than 100 miles of the county’s coastline and across one of the most beautiful parts of the National Park.
As the summer season continues, our local shops and other businesses are very much looking forward to welcoming visitors during this week’s ‘Shop Local Week’, which runs until August 17.
There really has never been a better time to show how much you love Cumbria, than by supporting our brilliant local retailers at every available opportunity during your visit.
Organised as part of the government’s #EnjoySummerSafely campaign, both visitors and residents alike are being urged to continue their strong show of support for local, independent traders – which has been more evident this year than ever before!
The Lake District Coast and West Cumbria is brimming with dynamic and exciting shops, offering everything from simple groceries to artisan gifts and food. From coastal towns like Millom, Ravenglass, Whitehaven, St Bees and Maryport, a tempting place to shop lies around every corner – why not head towards somewhere off the beaten-track and support some harder-to-find retailers?
From wines and gins to chutneys and cheeses, The Lake District, Cumbria’s homegrown produce is available to take away, to cook, to give as a gift for your loved ones, or even just as a treat for yourself. You don’t have to stroll far to find a shop well-stocked with the county’s finest foods. Whatever you choose, our local traders offer you nothing short of a taste sensation!
Luxurious products and unusual gifts for special occasions are never hard to find either. From candles and soaps to sculptures and glassware, make sure you keep your purses and wallets handy – and remember, cashless payments are preferred where possible. Specialist shops line the streets of many of our towns and villages.
From the luxurious to the practical, Cumbria is also the home of many outdoor shops which specialise is making sure you are fully kitted-out for a Lake District or coastal adventure.
Most of our attractions have shops on-site too, so, be sure to keep the memories of your trip alive by taking something home with you from each place you visit!
There’s never been a better time to back the county’s local businesses, save jobs and support communities. So, during your time here in The Western Lake District and Coast, please remember to ‘shop local’. Whether it’s at a greengrocer, bakery or florist, you can even help to show your support first-hand by taking to social media and using the hashtags #ShopLocal and #EnjoySummerSafely. Don’t forget to tag @HMGNorth so the government can also share.
Shops, pubs, restaurants, cafes and basic services such as post offices, garages and cinemas will also feel the benefits, all of which are enjoyed by visitors and residents alike.
Now for the serious bit: Please don’t forget, the best way you can continue to support local shops, is by adhering to responsible social distancing. Please do remember to keep your distance from people outside your household or support bubble – two metres, where possible.
Avoid being face-to-face with people if they are outside your household or support bubble, keep your hands and face as clean as possible. Wash your hands often using soap and water and dry them thoroughly, and where available, use hand-sanitiser as you enter and leave shops, avoid touching your face and try to avoid crowded spaces.
Face coverings are mandatory in shops, so don’t forget to pack one for every member of the group you’re travelling with.
Our local shops always look forward to welcoming responsible shoppers into their premises, so be sure to drop-in soon – and above all, enjoy your visit and stay safe!