BUSINESSES are feeling ‘optimistic’ about the start of this year’s main visitor season as the Easter Holidays commence, according to Cumbria Tourism.

As the official Easter break gets underway, this is the first time the majority of Cumbria’s tourism operators have been open to visitors without restrictions since 2019.

Gill Haigh, managing director of Cumbria Tourism, said: “With this being the first normal Easter since 2019 it will be amazing to see visitors supporting our local communities and businesses once again.

“It’s also a great time to shine the spotlight on some great new places and experiences to discover throughout our county.

“Endless opportunities can be found in all corners of Cumbria. As well as the Lake District World Heritage Site, people can head to the coast and discover more than 120 miles of coastline stretching from the Scottish Borders to Morecambe Bay.

“Or they can enjoy a peaceful slice of the Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines in historic market towns like Sedbergh, Kirkby Lonsdale and Kirkby Stephen. To the north, there is Carlisle and beyond to explore over 2000 years of history wrapped in Hadrian’s Wall.

“Of course, Cumbria is increasingly becoming a must visit destination for food lovers too. The combination of locally sourced produce and culinary expertise has made eating out a truly outstanding experience and we’ve got ten Michelin stars to prove it - that’s the most stars outside of London and the South East.”

Cumbria Tourism is also highlighting the recently created Cumbrian Coastal Route (CCR 200), a newly designated 200-mile route exploring the county’s coastal ‘gems’ specifically for motorhome and campervan owners.

The CCR 200 is split into a series of smaller sections and is part of the ‘Van Life’ section on the region’s official visitor-facing website www.visitlakedistrict.com. This sits alongside a ‘Know before you go’ section and a Code of Conduct for motorhome and campervan owners.

“There are also plenty of car-free ways to enjoy the views and explore our world-class landscapes from a different perspective,” said Ms Haigh.

“For instance, visitors can take the opportunity to hop on and off regular bus services with a ‘park and explore’ ticket or Lakes Dayrider. We are encouraging people to walk, cycle or travel by boat and train too – making the journey part of the experience.

“However people choose to get around, my message to visitors is that there is so much to see and do this Easter, try to plan ahead and make the most of this special place while you are here.”