A NEW campaign has been launched to boost tourism year-round in the Lake District.

Cumbria Tourism is to embark on a major marketing campaign that it hopes will bring more visitors in at traditionally quieter times.

It will be launched in November and will run until the end of March.

The aim is to showcase the wide range of events and attractions people can enjoy throughout the winter.

It will share content, images and itineraries to inspire staycations and drum home the message that visitors are welcome at any time of year.

The firm is working with Cactus Creative on the visuals, building on the success of its award-winning #theplacetobe campaign which has been promoting the Lake District nationally and internationally.

Cumbria Tourism managing director Ian Stephens said: “Unlike many other UK destinations, the Lake District has a plentiful supply of popular events and places to visit regardless of the changing seasons.

“There is no doubt last winter was a challenging time for our £2.62 billion tourism sector, but we are finalising this campaign on behalf of our 2,500 tourism members to showcase Cumbria’s destinations on the national stage and help make the most of the current trend for staycations.”

The campaign will also include the introduction of a new LoveCumbria Winter Rewards Card offering special discounts to a string of popular tourist attractions.

The card will be promoted by accommodation providers, information centres and attractions, as well through Cumbria Tourism’s GoLakes website and publications.

Among those who have already signed up to offer two for one deals as part of the LoveCumbria scheme, are The Wordsworth Trust, Lakes Distillery, Ullswater Steamers, Lakeland Arts, Rheged and Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway.

Cumbria Tourism will send messages to its 195,000 followers on social media. It will also promote reduced car parking charges, to help boost trade.