A new Lake District National Park Authority Visitor Information Centre has opened today in Hawkshead following an investment of over £200,000.
The new centre brings five new jobs to the village and will provide a much-needed information hub to ensure that visitors make the most of their time in the Lake District.
With friendly staff on hand to offer advice on anything from where to get a cup of tea, give information on local attractions, to advising on what local routes are suitable for walking and cycling.
The Information Centre on Main Street, Hawkshead is now open daily from 9.30am - 4.30pm and can help with:
Additionally, this will be the Lake District National Park Authority’s latest bike hire pick-up and drop-off point. A selection of bikes is available to hire for half a day or a full day and can be booked online in advance. Staff will be on hand to give help and assistance on suitable routes, including to Wray Castle, Hill Top, Claife Viewing Station and around the Windermere shores.
Local MP, Tim Farron officially opened the new Information Centre. He said: “One of the things that keeps people coming back to the Lake District is the warm Cumbrian welcome they receive when they get here.
“That’s why I’m delighted to open the new visitor information centre here in Hawkshead which will provide friendly advice and guidance from people who know our area well.
“It will also promote the fantastic range of cafes, shops, and other local services that Hawkshead has to offer.”
Richard Leafe, Chief Executive of the Lake District National Park Authority said: “We’ve made an investment of over £200k on our new Visitor Information Centre which is at the very centre of Hawkshead. It will provide a trusted voice for visitors. Whether they are here for the very first time or want help and advice on how to explore further afield, our staff are here to answer any questions. The team will help you find your way around; let you know what things you can do and how to book them around Hawkshead and the rest of the Lake District.
“The new bike hire provision here will encourage active travel and with the choice of bikes and electric bikes, there is an option for all the family to get on two wheels to explore. We hope that by having a taster here in the Lake District people will think more about sustainable travel options when they return home.”
Photo caption: Richard Leafe, Chief Executive of the Lake District National Park Authority (left) Tiffany Hunt, Lake District National Park Authority Chair (middle) and Tim Farron, local MP (right).
