The Lake District is a distinctive landscape that attracts 16 million visitors each year, spending £1.13 billion on accommodation, attractions, food and drink, retail and transport. This spending in turn supports local suppliers and services. Spending by visitors to the county supports 44,000 jobs, equivalent to 25,500 full time posts. Tourism is Cumbria's most important industry.
The Lake District is a well-known destination, second only to London as the UK's most frequently recalled tourist destination. The county's urban areas and villages offer quality environments, enhanced by well-established brands such Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Whilst tourism in Cumbria continues to prosper there has been little growth in visitor spend between 2003 and 2007. Staying visitors are decreasing.
Lowther, in the North Lakes, is a place where man, nature and artistic inspiration can be experienced in unusual harmony. The consolidation of the ruined castle: the conservation of its derelict gardens and the creation of contemporary culture and education facilities in the former stables will establish a high quality attraction that will increase overnight stays in the county and drive business to the county's other smaller attractions.