The Government’s ‘Shop Local Week’ is running until August 17 to encourage shoppers to return to their local high street and to shop safely, and there’s never been a better time for residents to show how much they love The Lake District, than by supporting local retailers and communities.

Although famous for its world class landscape, Cumbria also boasts a multitude of fabulous independent shops, with plenty of retail therapy on offer across the stunning National Park, in towns dotted along more than 100 miles of the county’s coastline, in and around the city of Carlisle, and to the east of the county where the Lakes meets the Dales.

Businesses and shops on high streets up and down the county have adapted since the outbreak of coronavirus and are now able to welcome customers back to business-almost-as-usual.

Shop Local Week reassures shoppers that safety is paramount, and that their custom is valued by local high street shops and businesses. It also gives customers an opportunity to show appreciation and support for their local communities.

The initiative is part of the Government’s Enjoy Summer Safely campaign, which aims to inspire the public to get back to the things they enjoy, whilst following coronavirus safety guidelines.

Cumbria is brimming with dynamic and exciting shops, offering everything from groceries to artisan gifts and food. From the city of Carlisle to towns like Barrow, Kendal, Ulverston and Cockermouth, to tucked away gems like Alston or Coniston.

With bespoke independent outlets in historic market towns like Kirkby Lonsdale and Penrith, there’s also the official ‘book town’ of Sedbergh, where plenty of opportunities await those who want to get lost inside a new set of pages.

Also well-worth a look are shops in the coastal spots of Whitehaven, Workington and Maryport. Many visitor attractions have shops on-site too.

‘Shop Local Week’ also coincides with ‘Afternoon Tea Week’: A celebration of one of the nation’s favourite traditions. Whether enjoyed in a 5-star hotel or in a cosy cafe, The Lake District is the home of countless providers of some of the best afternoon teas that money can buy.

It’s another great excuse to take advantage of the government’s ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme which is running this month, again to help local food and drink businesses get back on their feet.

The Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme will give people a discount of up to 50% when eating or drinking soft drinks in participating cafes, pubs, restaurants and hotels Monday-Wednesday, until August 31. The maximum discount available is £10 per person, with establishments deducting the money off the bill and claiming it back from the Government.

Many places also offer great discounts on afternoon teas to holders of Cumbria Tourism’s ‘MyCumbria’ discount card. So, what better way to celebrate conquering a mountain than by raising a glass to the achievement, and tucking into a tasty meal or afternoon snack?

To qualify as a card holder, you just need to either live or work in a CA or LA postcode area. For further information on MyCumbria, contact: info@mycumbriacard.co.uk