As Cumbria prepares for the Easter season, local businesses are highlighting how essential strong digital connectivity is for tourism, rural enterprise and community life.
With over 96% of premises across the county now able to access superfast broadband, 85% gigabit‑capable speeds, and more than 94% of Cumbria landmass covered by outdoor 4G from at least one provider and 77% from all, there has never been a better time to review your connectivity options.
At Augill Castle, Kirby Stephen, the Easter holidays bring guests looking for a blend of rural escape and modern convenience.
Wendy Bennett told us: “Easter is one of the most magical times of year at the castle and we need fast, stable connectivity to support it. Whether guests are uploading photos of our Easter lamb‑feeding experience, joining a work call from one of our turret rooms, or celebrating a wedding with family and friends, digital access is very much part of the modern visitor experience.”
Over on the west coast, Stephney Farm near Seascale is gearing up for its popular Easter Eggvent, featuring egg hunts, farm‑themed activities, and family‑friendly seasonal fun.
Kate Knight explained how digital tools are now central to their planning:
“Our Easter Eggvent grows every year, and families rely on our website and social pages for times, tickets and weather updates, so strong digital connectivity is essential. It lets us post live updates, manage bookings in real time and keep the event running smoothly. We also love seeing families share their photos and videos from the farm. Watching children enjoy meeting the new chicks and lambs brings the event to life online and encourages more people to visit us and the surrounding area.”
Cllr Chris Southward, Cumberland Council’s Digital Champion, said:
“Tourism, rural businesses and seasonal events all depend on connectivity more than ever before. From mobile payments to visitor information, rolling out futureproof digital infrastructure to support digital services access is essential to how people experience Cumbria, especially during busy periods like Easter.”
Peter Thornton, Digital Champion for Westmorland & Furness, added:
“When our rural attractions thrive, our communities thrive. Reliable connectivity ensures every corner of Cumbria is equipped to host events, work flexibly, welcome visitors and stay connected, whatever the season.”
As thousands of visitors travel across Cumbria for Easter breaks and community events, reliable digital access is essential for helping local businesses operate smoothly throughout the holiday period and beyond, enabling rural areas to thrive in new and innovative ways.
To find out more about the online connectivity options in your area and how the UK government is supporting with programmes such as Project Gigabit and the Shared Rural Network, visit www.connectingcumbria.org.uk.