Cumbria’s longest-running trade show set to give businesses a boost!

Momentum is building for a cornerstone event bringing businesses together from across Cumbria and the North of England to network, innovate and build relationships to support business growth.

The two-day Lakes Hospitality Trade Show 2026 will take place on 25 and 26 February at the J36 Rural Auction Centre, Crooklands. It is expected to attract around 1,800 visitors and 150 exhibitors to connect professionals not just from Cumbria but also from the wider North West, North East, and Yorkshire regions.

Holiday let brand Laik will be exhibiting at the show for the first time in 2026. Co-owner Niall Melonie, comments: “We’re excited to be exhibiting at the LHA show. As an established and well-attended event, it provides us with an opportunity to network with the right people to help us grow as a business.

“We’re hoping to form partnerships both with new owners and also those in the supply chain, such as IT software providers, skincare brands, cleaning companies or those that provide fixtures and fittings. 

“We already have our own interior design company, which helps us ensure that our properties meet the highest standards of comfort and style. However, it’s good to see what innovations are happening in the marketplace and keep abreast of modern trends, especially from businesses that supply and support hospitality in Cumbria and the North of England.

“A secondary benefit is also a chance for us to meet with potential new guests and highlight the unique selling points of booking with Laik. Our ethos is to create better experiences for holidaymakers and the communities in which they are staying, so working solely with local partner businesses very much feeds into this.”

Meanwhile, fellow exhibitor Armstrong Watson provide a range of specialist services and financial advice. Business Services Director Matt Hutton says: “The Lakes Hospitality Trade Show is an event that is firmly fixed in our calendar, and we are once again proud to be taking part.

“In a sector facing rising costs, staffing challenges, and economic uncertainty, we’re here to help hospitality, leisure and tourism businesses navigate complexity with specialist financial advice, strategic planning, and practical support.

“This event is more than a showcase – it’s an opportunity to connect with the heartbeat of the region’s visitor economy, allowing us to engage directly with hoteliers, restaurant owners, and tourism operators. But its reach extends far beyond Cumbria, opening doors to opportunities across the wider North and into Scotland. Through it, we’ve been able to build meaningful relationships with many businesses that want a partner who understands their world.

“The Lakes Hospitality Show is a brilliant platform for collaboration, innovation, and long-term business growth, and we’re looking forward to what this year has to offer.”

With a very limited number of stands remaining, organisers are encouraging interested businesses to act now to secure one of the last remaining exhibitor spots.

Contact sarah@lakeshospitalitytradeshow.co.uk  or visit www.lakeshospitalitytradeshow.co.uk.