Why Move to Cumbria? | Cumbria is a breathtaking and diverse county that seamlessly blends natural beauty, rich heritage, and modern amenities. From the historic city of Carlisle to charming market towns such as Kendal, Penrith, and Ulverston, the region offers a high quality of life for both residents and visitors.
A defining feature of Cumbria is its spectacular landscapes, home to the world-famous Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether exploring the scenic fells of Helvellyn and Scafell Pike, enjoying the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere, or visiting historic sites like Hadrian’s Wall and Muncaster Castle, the county provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and cultural discovery. The picturesque villages of Grasmere, Ambleside, and Keswick offer a perfect balance between countryside living and vibrant community life.
Cumbria has a strong and evolving economy, with key industries including tourism, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and agriculture. The county is home to major employers such as BAE Systems, Sellafield Ltd, and the University of Cumbria, providing diverse career opportunities. With excellent transport links, including the M6 motorway, West Coast Main Line rail connections to London, Manchester, and Glasgow, and access to Carlisle Lake District Airport, commuting and travel are both convenient and efficient.
With highly regarded schools, a thriving economy, and a close-knit community, Cumbria is an outstanding place to call home. Whether you’re looking for career opportunities, a high standard of education, or a lifestyle that embraces rural charm and outdoor adventure, this county has something for everyone.
Why Move to Cumbria | What to Expect
Cumbria offers the perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and modern convenience, making it an exceptional place to live. From the historic city of Carlisle to charming market towns like Kendal, Penrith, and Ulverston, the county provides diverse lifestyles to suit all preferences.
Cumbria is known for its welcoming communities, strong local traditions, and outdoor lifestyle. Whether you enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Lake District, the peaceful coastline of the Solway Firth, or the vibrant market towns with independent shops, cosy cafés, and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone. The county is also home to vast green spaces, including the Lake District National Park and the North Pennines, providing excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, and water sports.
With strong transport links, including the M6 motorway, direct rail connections to Manchester, Glasgow, and London, and access to Carlisle Lake District Airport, commuting and travel are both convenient and efficient. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly environment, a place for outdoor adventure, or a peaceful countryside retreat, Cumbria offers a high quality of life with a strong sense of community.
Why Move to Cumbria | Housing in Cumbria: Exploring Your Options
Cumbria’s property market offers a diverse range of homes to suit various budgets and lifestyles. From charming period cottages in historic towns like Kendal and Penrith to modern developments in Carlisle, Whitehaven, and Workington, the county provides a mix of traditional and contemporary housing options.
As of 2024, the average house price in Cumbria is around £220,000, though prices vary by location. Desirable areas such as Windermere, Ambleside, and Keswick command higher property values due to their stunning Lake District views, excellent amenities, and strong community appeal. Meanwhile, more affordable housing can be found in locations like Barrow-in-Furness, Maryport, and Wigton, offering great value for buyers and renters alike.
New developments in areas such as Carlisle, Cockermouth, and Ulverston provide modern housing with excellent amenities at competitive prices. Renting is also a popular choice, particularly in well-connected areas near employment hubs, universities, and tourist destinations, making it ideal for professionals, students, and seasonal workers. Whether you’re looking for a countryside retreat, a family home, or a promising investment opportunity, Cumbria offers a strong and varied housing market.
Why Move to Cumbria | Education in Cumbria: A Centre of Learning
Cumbria offers a high-quality and diverse education system, making it an excellent choice for families and students. The county is home to a range of well-regarded primary and secondary schools, including comprehensive, grammar, and independent institutions such as Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Penrith, Keswick School, and Austin Friars School in Carlisle.
For higher education, Cumbria is home to the University of Cumbria, which offers a variety of courses in business, healthcare, teaching, environmental sciences, and the arts. The university has campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, and Barrow-in-Furness, providing strong industry connections and excellent career prospects for graduates.
Further education is well supported by colleges such as Carlisle College, Kendal College, and Furness College, which specialise in vocational training, apprenticeships, and professional development. Specialist areas include outdoor education, agriculture, engineering, and hospitality, equipping students with practical skills for today’s evolving job market.
Whether you’re seeking top-tier schooling, university education, or career-focused training, Cumbria provides a well-rounded and dynamic learning environment, helping students of all ages achieve their ambitions.
Why Move to Cumbria | Employment Opportunities
Cumbria offers a diverse and thriving job market, making it an excellent place to live and work. The county’s economy spans key industries, including tourism, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and education, providing a wealth of career opportunities.
Key Employment Sectors in Cumbria
Tourism and Hospitality
Cumbria’s stunning landscapes, including the Lake District National Park, attract millions of visitors each year. This makes tourism a major industry, creating jobs in hotels, restaurants, outdoor activity centres, and heritage site management in popular areas like Windermere, Keswick, and Ambleside.
Renewable Energy and Advanced Manufacturing
Cumbria is a leader in renewable energy, with wind farms, hydroelectric projects, and nuclear energy sites such as Sellafield Ltd providing employment in engineering, research, and environmental sustainability. The county also has a strong advanced manufacturing sector, with BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness playing a key role in submarine and defence production.
Agriculture and Food Production
With its vast rural landscapes, Cumbria has a well-established agricultural sector, specialising in livestock farming, dairy production, and forestry. The county is also home to artisan food producers, breweries, and distilleries that supply high-quality products across the UK and internationally.
Education and Healthcare
Cumbria has a strong education sector, with opportunities in primary, secondary, and higher education, particularly through institutions like the University of Cumbria and further education colleges. The county’s healthcare system, supported by NHS hospitals in Carlisle, Whitehaven, and Barrow-in-Furness, provides careers in nursing, medicine, and social care.
Retail, Logistics, and Public Services
Carlisle and other key towns serve as regional retail and logistics hubs, with major employers in transport, distribution, and public administration. The county’s strong community infrastructure also supports careers in local government, emergency services, and environmental conservation.
With a strong and evolving economy, Cumbria provides a range of career options across multiple industries, making it an attractive destination for professionals, graduates, and entrepreneurs alike.
Mortgage Brokers in Cumbria: Securing a Home
Cumbria’s property market offers a diverse range of opportunities, and expert guidance from mortgage brokers can be invaluable in securing the best financing options. Whether you are a first-time buyer, a buy-to-let investor, or looking to remortgage, working with a local broker can simplify the process and help you access the most competitive deals.
Cumbria-based mortgage brokers have in-depth knowledge of the local housing market, ensuring you find a mortgage that suits your financial situation. Whether you’re purchasing a lakeside retreat in Windermere, a family home in Carlisle or Kendal, a countryside property in Penrith, or a more affordable option in Barrow-in-Furness or Whitehaven, a broker can provide tailored advice and access to exclusive mortgage rates.
With expert support, securing a home in this picturesque and well-connected county becomes a smoother and more efficient process, allowing you to focus on finding the perfect property.
Why Cumbria is the Perfect Place to Call Home
Moving to Cumbria offers the ideal combination of breathtaking natural landscapes, rich heritage, and modern convenience, making it a fantastic place to live. With strong career opportunities, highly regarded schools, and a welcoming community, the county appeals to professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a fresh start, Cumbria has something for everyone. The property market is diverse, from charming period homes in Kendal to spacious family properties in Carlisle, Penrith, and Whitehaven. For those seeking a more peaceful lifestyle, picturesque villages such as Ambleside, Keswick, and Grasmere offer rural tranquillity while remaining well-connected to larger towns and cities. With excellent transport links, including the M6 motorway, direct rail services to Manchester, Glasgow, and London, and access to Carlisle Lake District Airport, commuting and travel are both convenient and efficient.
If you are considering a move, explore our mortgage guides for insights on securing the best mortgage deals in Cumbria. With expert advice and careful planning, finding your ideal home in this thriving and well-connected county can become a reality.
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