CUMBRIANS looking to indulge in what the Lake District has to offer for their summer staycations are being urged to plan and book ahead.

With the summer holidays firmly underway Cumbria Tourism and the Lake District National Park Authority are encouraging visitors to do their research and head for locations with the official We're Good to Go mark - a seal of approval that shows Government and industry Covid-19 guidelines have been followed and processes are in place to maintain cleanliness and aid social distancing.

Accommodation providers across the county have worked hard to prepare for the return of guests to ensure they have everything in place to keep staff and visitors safe.

There’s a particular call for campers and motorhome owners to book only onto designated campsites, as wild camping and parking overnight at unofficial sites is not permitted.

Gill Haigh, Managing Director of Cumbria Tourism, said: “Regular visitors will know we're blessed to have one of the most diverse and spacious parts of the country, while people who haven't been here before may be less familiar with the huge range of attractions and hidden gems to explore which take them off the beaten track. Either way, it's vital to plan your stay beforehand and know exactly where you will be going.

“Businesses really have been working flat out to ensure people feel safe and reassured, and in turn, visitors know that the support they give to accommodation providers and attractions this summer will help put money back into an industry that supports 65,000 jobs in this stunning part of the UK."

Lake District National Park Authority chief executive Richard Leafe added: “We welcome all visitors to the Lake District, however we do ask that people visit us responsibly.

“Our tourism and hospitality providers have been working hard to be able to offer that warm Lake District welcome, while keeping their staff and customers safe. They’ve had a couple of weeks to get used to operating post lockdown and are ready for the summer season. We’d encourage visitors to support our local businesses and accommodation wherever possible during their stay.

“Please plan ahead to avoid the busy spots using saferlakes.co.uk, take all your litter away with you, stick to the social distancing guidelines and enjoy exploring the Lake District this summer."

For information, ideas and inspiration visit Cumbria Tourism's website visitlakedistrict.com.