The people, family firms and independent businesses that make the Lake District tick: founder stories, local shops, homes, gardens and community.
From polythene bags for poultry farmers to a nationwide name in kitchenware, Lakeland's story began in a Windermere garage and the business still calls the town home.
At Heltondale near Penrith, Professor Jane Barker and Simon Bland have built an award-winning peat-free compost business from two very Cumbrian resources: bracken and wool.
Founded as a small nursery more than 200 years ago, Hayes Garden World in Ambleside has shaped famous Cumbrian gardens and remains a favourite stop on the road into town.
Founded in 1946 at Brathay Hall near Ambleside, the Brathay Trust has spent eight decades helping young people build confidence, and celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2026.
The Park family have farmed at Low Sizergh since 1980, and their farm shop, tearoom and galleries near Kendal put the dairy herd right at the heart of a visit.