Kendal Calling

Kendal Calling is the Lake District's biggest music festival, and it has earned a devoted following for its friendly atmosphere, beautiful setting, and consistently strong lineups. Held annually at Lowther Deer Park near Penrith in Cumbria, the festival draws around 25,000 people for a four-day weekend of live music, comedy, arts, and outdoor activities set against the stunning backdrop of the Lakeland fells. From Heath's Motorhome Hire in Pontefract, Lowther Deer Park is approximately one hour and forty-five minutes' drive via the M62 and M6 — a journey that takes you right through the heart of Northern England.

The lineup at Kendal Calling blends established headliners with a deep roster of emerging artists and cult favourites. The Main Stage has hosted acts including Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, The Vaccines, Hacienda Classical, and Supergrass in recent years, while the Woodland Stage, Chai Wallah tent, and Soapbox Stage offer everything from acoustic sessions and world music to spoken word and DJ sets deep into the night. The festival has a knack for programming acts that suit its setting — music that sounds better in the open air, surrounded by mountains.

The setting is genuinely special. Lowther Deer Park is part of the Lowther Castle estate, and the festival site is bordered by ancient woodland, open parkland, and views of the Lakeland fells to the west. The ruins of Lowther Castle form a dramatic backdrop to the campsite areas, and the River Lowther runs through the edge of the site. It feels a long way from the motorway — which, given that the M6 is barely fifteen minutes away, is a testament to the quality of the landscape.

The festival's family-friendly reputation is well deserved. The Tint Tent area offers a dedicated programme for younger children, including craft workshops, storytelling, and mini-gigs. The Woodlands area hosts acoustic sessions and spoken word events in a more intimate setting beneath the trees. The Fancy Dress Friday tradition sees thousands of festival-goers in elaborate costumes, creating a carnival atmosphere that sets the tone for the weekend. There is also a strong food and drink offering, with local Cumbrian producers represented alongside the usual festival fare.

Kendal Calling offers dedicated campervans and motorhome pitches with access to the festival site. These pitches are in a separate area from the general camping fields and tend to be quieter, with more space between vehicles. Electrical hook-ups may be available depending on the pitch type — check the festival website for current options when booking. Motorhome tickets sell alongside general admission and go on sale in early spring, so book promptly if you want a good pitch. Arrival for campervans and motorhomes is typically from Thursday morning, giving you time to set up before the music starts on Thursday evening or Friday.

The drive from Pontefract follows the M62 west toward Manchester, then the M6 north through Lancashire and into Cumbria. The M6 runs past Lowther Deer Park, and the exit is well signposted during festival weekend. Allow additional time on Thursday and Friday for event traffic on the final approach roads. The surrounding area is superb motorhome country — Ullswater, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District, is barely ten minutes from the festival site, and the market town of Penrith offers all the supplies and services you might need.

Extending your trip beyond the festival is strongly recommended. The Lake District National Park is on your doorstep, and a motorhome gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Keswick, Ambleside, and Windermere are all within 30 to 45 minutes' drive, and the campsite options in the Lakes are extensive. You could spend a few days walking the fells, cruising the lakes, and visiting the charming Lakeland villages before or after the festival, turning a weekend away into a proper holiday.

Kendal Calling captures something that larger festivals often lose — a sense of community, a connection to the landscape, and an atmosphere of genuine warmth. Attending in a motorhome from Heath's makes the experience even better, giving you a comfortable base in one of the most beautiful corners of England.