About the Festival

Our mission: connecting you with nature

The Cumbria Nature Festival is dedicated to fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience nature-based interactions, and we aim to make these experiences accessible to all. We are passionate about uplifting biodiversity, recognising the urgent need to restore what has been lost. Join us in creating a positive and hopeful future for our planet, starting with the incredible natural beauty of Cumbria. Discover engaging activities designed to deepen your appreciation for our environment.

Experience the unique cumbria nature festival

What makes the Cumbria Nature Festival truly unique is its collaborative spirit and hands-on approach to environmental discovery. In partnership with the Cumbria Biodiversity Data Centre, https://www.cbdc.org.uk/ we bring together a vibrant community of local nature experts, inspiring musicians, and dedicated volunteers. Expect a rich tapestry of engaging talks, immersive guided walks, and interactive activities, all designed to spark new insights and discoveries. This isn't just an event; it's an experience crafted to leave you with a renewed appreciation for the natural world and a personal connection to Cumbria's incredible biodiversity. Uncover hidden wonders and learn from those who know our environment best.

A festival for everyone

The Cumbria Nature Festival is for everyone – from seasoned naturalists to curious families, young explorers to lifelong learners. We envision an atmosphere of shared wonder, inspiration, and community. We want every visitor to leave feeling uplifted, informed, and with a fresh perspective on a part of nature they might have previously overlooked. It's about fostering hope and empowering individuals to contribute to biodiversity, one interaction at a time. Come and connect with like-minded people, share your passion, and inspire future generations.

Festival Catering

We are delighted to announce that the festival catering will be provided by The Binsey Field Kitchen, a Cumbria based catering company founded by chef Chris Alflat. They offer excellent  quality food prepared and cooked on site. https://www.thebinseyfieldkitchen.com/

There will also be an onsite bar. 

Last year's wild weekend bioblitz

In a spectacular 24-hour event at Park House Farm, Torpenhow,  we organised a Wild Weekend Bioblitz. This intensive survey brought together scientists, volunteers, and nature enthusiasts to identify as many species as possible in a short period, contributing vital data to local biodiversity records. It was a vibrant testament to community engagement and scientific discovery, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the farm and our collective commitment to its preservation.

 

This year's nature festival

 

The nature festival will be a broader celebration of the natural world. It will also include nature-based activities,  designed to be more relaxed and to appeal to a wider range of people through activities like workshops, guided walks, talks,  music and local food. The goal is to celebrate local nature and promote community engagement, connecting visitors with local environmental projects and conservation efforts.  However during the festival there will be opportunities to record nature sightings which will be added to the Cumbria Biodiversity Data Centre records. Do not worry if you have not made nature records previously, help will be on hand to encourage you to become a citizen scientist and make a contribution to research.

Recording wildlife sightings.