AS workers across the country prepare to return to the office, many are looking for new opportunities to maintain a more manageable work-life balance, with Cumbria’s natural landscapes, strong communities and career opportunities helping the county to stand out.

It is not difficult to see the appeal of living and working in and near a UNESCO World Heritage site compared to a city centre office and with long-term advancement opportunities across the industry now is the perfect time to consider a career move.

Jasmine Wardropper is a receptionist at the Langdale Hotel and Spa. She said: “You’ve got the flexibility of going out and enjoying your day and maybe working in the night-time or working during the day and enjoying the evenings up in the mountains. You can go and chill by the lake or you can walk up a hill, or you can go cycling – there are so may different things to do, especially outside. Even when it’s raining it’s just a bit of water, you’re still going to enjoy yourself.

“There are so many jobs and opportunities available at the moment… and there’s something for everybody, whether it’s full-time part-time, in a busy environment or a not so busy one – there’s something for everybody”.

Alongside the stunning landscapes, tranquillity and outdoor adventure opportunities, Cumbria Tourism, the county’s official Destination Management Organisation (DMO) is working to raise awareness that whilst rural, Cumbria still has plenty to offer workers more used to city life.

“The county’s visitor economy is facing a recruitment crisis” said Gill Haigh, Cumbria Tourism MD. "And as businesses prepare to reopen in line with the Government’s roadmap, it’s vital they’re adequately staffed to provide the world-class experience we’re famous for. Hospitality often has a negative reputation, but the sector offers the opportunity for anybody to forge a fulfilling career bringing happiness to people enjoying a well-deserved break. Alongside a defined career progression and opportunity to achieve qualifications on the job, working here in our beautiful county offers so many benefits – you can finish your shift and be in the heart of the Lake District in just minutes!”

Oliver Eardley works as a band ambassador at the Fizzy Tarte in Bowness. “It was a bit of a change from busy town and city life to up here, but you very quickly get used to it and you do fall in love with it – it’s hard to explain, but there’s definitely something special here. In terms of hospitality, Cumbria offers probably one of the widest ranges of options outside a city, so you’ve still got a full career.”