With national and international travel on hold whilst the country awaits the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccination programme, people across the UK can visit the Lake District, Cumbria from the comfort of their living rooms this weekend.
Viewers will be eagerly tuning into Channel 5 on Friday evening to watch Scottish comedian Susan Calman explore the best of Cumbria and the Lake District. Starting at Ullswater alongside her trusty campervan Helen, the presenter soon finds herself exploring everything the county has to offer, as well as delving deep into the landscape’s heritage and culture.
The National Park’s scenery plays a starring role, with Susan experiencing Ullswater from the deck of the 19th century ‘Lady of the Lake’ alongside Ullswater ‘Steamers’ skipper Graeme Connacher. Equally stunning views are offered from the panoramic viewing cabin of Joan – the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway’s new panoramic viewing carriage.
“It was fantastic to welcome Susan to the Lake District earlier in the autumn” says Rachel Bell, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Lake District Estates. “It’s been a year like no other but the desire to explore and experience the Cumbrian landscape is stronger than ever, and what better way than from the deck of a ‘Steamer’ and a traditional railway carriage? Both have been firm tourist favourites for hundreds of years and Friday’s programme highlights just some of the many experiences available for visitors to enjoy in the future when restrictions are lifted.”
Susan also takes a step back in time, exploring the grounds and castle at Muncaster – famous not only for their setting and history but also their ghostly connection. Alongside castle owner Peter Frost-Pennington she delves deep into the spooky history of Tom Skelton, the fool of Muncaster rumoured to still haunt its walls to this day.
Gill Haigh, Cumbria Tourism Managing Director says “We know how much our visitors can’t wait to return to the Lake District, Cumbria, and the hospitality sector will welcome them with open arms once the time is right. In the meantime, it’s fantastic to see our county so well-represented onscreen.
“As well as offering a scenic fix for those unable to visit in person the programme showcases the huge variety of locations and attractions available for visitors to explore later in the year. We’re sure that many will be inspired to get outside and enjoy somewhere new alongside old favourites once they’re able to travel safely and legally.”
Viewers can tune into Channel 5 at 8pm this Friday (15th January) to watch Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. New and returning visitors can plan their trip, either to follow in Susan’s footsteps or forge their own path, by visiting www.visitlakedistrict.com.
Cumbria Tourism is the county’s official Destination Management Organisation and is at the heart of the Cumbria Visitor Economy. It is also the largest membership organisation in Cumbria with 2,500 members. In 2019, almost 48 million people visited Cumbria, contributing £3.13 billion to the local economy, and supporting 65,500 jobs.
