Find Your Future in Cumbria's Visitor Economy

Discover career paths, training and opportunities in Cumbria's exciting tourism and hospitality sector, empowering people at every stage to build a rewarding future.

41 Million

people visit Cumbria annually

£4.6bn

was spent in Cumbria’s visitor economy

28%

of Cumbria's total jobs

Map of the UK illustrating the location of Cumbria

Cumbria is home to almost 3,000 tourism businesses, with a range of fantastic career opportunities in beautiful locations!

Hospitality is the UK's third-largest employer in the UK
Hospitality & Tourism drive 3.6 million UK jobs, supporting employment across hotels, restaurants, pubs, cafés, attractions and other hospitality businesses.
43% of hospitality professionals plan to stay in the industry for longer than 5 years
It’s more than just a job; employees consistently name supportive coworkers as the number one reason they love coming to work.
Hospitality delivers a people-first culture.

*SOURCE: UK Hospitality

Real Career Stories:

"I’d never considered tourism as a career before, but this summer has completely changed my perspective."

Seyida-Aisha Akanji

Summer Reception Assistant at Castlerigg Hall

"A career in tourism is so much more than people realise. There are so many different roles and opportunities, and you never know where it might lead."

Kate Barton

Operations Manager, Mountain Goat Tours

"Hospitality is fast-paced, challenging and full of opportunities and there’s always something new to learn."

Justin Manique

Head Chef, Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa

"At 23, I never imagined I’d one day be a Director of Operations. I started out working on a bar and serving guests, and every step along the way taught me something new."

Kim Capstick

Director of Operations, Netherby Hall

Why Choose Cumbria’s Visitor Economy?

Cumbria is home to an array of activities and lifestyles. There is something for everyone! Cumbria isn’t just a visitor destination; it is home to 500,000+ residents.

Outside of work, Cumbria offers an incredible lifestyle with something for everyone. From walking iconic fells, cycling forest trails and paddleboarding, kayaking or sailing on its beautiful lakes, to exploring historic attractions, enjoying live events and festivals, discovering charming towns and villages, shopping independent boutiques or unwinding at a luxury spa, there's always something to experience.

And if you're a foodie, you're in the right place. Cumbria is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than any county outside London, alongside an outstanding selection of local producers, independent restaurants, cafés and artisan food businesses.