Kendal Calling is an independent music and arts festival with a unique and quirky charm, held annually in the stunning Lowther Deer Park in Cumbria. What began in 2006 as a small, two-day event for 900 people in Kendal, grew rapidly and relocated to its current, more spacious home in 2009. The festival has since blossomed into a major UK event, with a capacity of 40,000 attendees, yet it has managed to retain its friendly and intimate feel.

Its musical lineup is celebrated for its eclectic nature, moving beyond its indie and rock roots to encompass a broad range of genres, including pop, electronic, hip-hop, funk, and even dance music, drawing in both legendary headliners and up and coming artists. Beyond the main stages, the atmosphere is a significant part of its appeal. The festival site, with its beautiful woodland setting, is transformed into a whimsical playground featuring immersive art installations, a vibrant “Lost Eden” area, and quirky corners like the “Tim Peaks Diner” hosted by Tim Burgess of The Charlatans. Kendal Calling is known for its family-friendly vibe, its famous Saturday fancy-dress parade, and a palpable sense of community that makes it feel less like a large-scale festival and more like a massive, joyous gathering of like-minded people.