Lake District Book Festival: Where Stories Meet the Landscape 
Cumbria and the Lake District have been the setting for creatives for thousands of years. The rolling hills, quintessential countryside walks, and quiet mornings spent looking out across the still waters that lie all over the county are a place for reflection, for renewal, and for imagination to take root.
It’s no coincidence that so many writers, poets, and artists have found themselves drawn here, held by the quiet gravity of the landscape.
But of course, Cumbria is far more than simply a beautiful place to explore and enjoy long walks; it’s also home to some of the most incredible eateries and artisans, as well as an ideal central location for some high-profile events. From county shows to music festivals, and everything in between – celebrating and showcasing Cumbria in a whole new light.
After many years of creating events, novelist and creative director of Lowther Castle, Charlotte Fairbairn and historian and journalist, Christopher de Bellaigue, felt inspired to join forces and develop a new festival that will help to put Cumbria well and truly on the map for years to come. One that brings people together in a celebration of the written and spoken word and the free and courteous exchange of ideas.
And that’s how the Lake District Book Festival came to fruition!
As any event organiser would know, of course, it wasn’t that easy?! But with a great deal of determination, as well as the support of a collection of patrons and sponsors and the assistance of many local trusts, the team behind the Lake District Book Festival hit the ground running.
Founder Charlotte Fairbairn wanted not only to create a bold and ambitious event but also to cultivate a lasting tribute to the county she loves.
“The main core values that push us are being able to give young people a variety of opportunities, not just in attending the festival but also volunteering at it, and being inspired by so many amazing writers. Sharing the written and spoken word with a wider audience and, of course, bringing the world to the Lakes and the Lakes to the world.”
Taking place on the famous racecourse at Cartmel, in marquees and within the grandstand building, the Lake District Book Festival consists of 42 talks, panels and debates over a 3-day weekend on 12th-14th June.
Not only will this be a homage to the written and spoken word, but it is also a space for local suppliers to share their craft, tell their stories, and connect with a community that values creativity in all its forms.
Attendees will be able to taste and sample the very best of local produce, experiencing the flavours of the region from cakes from Sweets Treats by Martin Frickel, chutneys and jams from Hawkshead Relish and cheese to match from Cartmel Cheeses, freshly brewed coffee from the Coffee Bug or perhaps a pint from The Barrel House and Bowness Bay Brewing.
This spirit of collaboration extends beyond the festival itself. Charlotte and Christopher are working closely with local schools to recruit volunteers, with Cartmel Village Society to deliver a variety of programmes, with St Mary’s Hospice as their charity partner, and with Cartmel Priory, which will be raising much-needed funds.
Avi Shlaim
With all this, alongside an extraordinary line-up of authors and speakers, the inaugural Lake District Book Festival promises to be the first of many.
“We are thrilled to name just a few of our featured guests and conversations: Michael Heseltine being interviewed by his daughter; Zeinab Badawi being interviewed by her son; Rory Stewart being interviewed by Matt Frei (sold out); Candice Carty-Williams on her follow-up to the runaway success Queenie; Christopher Eccleston talking for the 30th anniversary of Our Friends in the North; Jane Horrocks talking to Christine Cort; Avi Shlaim on his memoir as an Arab Jew; MW Craven on his latest Washington Poe novel.”
And beyond these headline events, the festival offers something equally compelling: the chance to wander, to listen, and to discover. With plenty of on-site parking available at £5 per day, and free entry for all visitors, the festival offers an accessible and welcoming day out.
Cartmel Priory
For those wishing to soak up and fully immerse themselves in the book festival, there are plenty of talks, panel discussions and interviews that you have the opportunity to purchase a ticket for. Head to The Lake District Book Festival and take a look at the full programme of events. If you are making a day of it, you can also book a day pass that allows you to attend up to five talks at a reduced rate.
The Lake District Book Festival takes place 12th-14th June 2026 at Cartmel Racecourse, LA11 6QF
