THREE of Cumbria’s leading hospitality brands have joined forces in a bid to drive tourism and boost the county’s economy.
Michelin Star restaurant Pentonbridge Inn, multi award winning self-catering destination Netherby Hall and Cumbria’s leading horse racing venue, Carlisle Racecourse, have entered into a unique partnership.
The trio of brands will work together to turn day trippers into visitors who spend multi-day breaks in north Cumbria. The collaboration comes as momentum gathers behind an initiative to showcase the north of the county as a destination.
Kim Capstick, Director of Operations at Netherby Hall, said: “This partnership with Carlisle Racecourse represents a strategic move to combine our strengths and elevate the race day experience in Cumbria. By offering tailored packages that include luxury accommodation, premium race day hospitality and fine dining, we are encouraging visitors to extend their stay and engage more deeply with the local economy.
“At a time when consumer spending is more selective, collaborations like this are key to delivering value and driving sustainable growth for our businesses and the wider community.”
Helen Willis, General Manager, Carlisle Racecourse added: “We are delighted to partner with two outstanding local venues to offer racegoers a truly enhanced experience that goes beyond a day at the races. By working with Netherby Hall and Pentonbridge Inn, we are creating a more complete visitor offer that combines luxury accommodation with high-quality race day hospitality.
“This collaboration encourages guests to stay longer, explore Carlisle and North Cumbria, and supports the continued growth of the local visitor economy.”
The partnership highlights a forward-thinking approach to business in Cumbria’s hospitality sector, emphasising collaboration, customer experience innovation and regional economic support.
It reflects the ambitions of the Carlisle and the Borders Tourism Group, which brings together businesses committed to showcasing north Cumbria as a destination in its own right.
Edith McColgan, Chief Operating Officer at Carlisle Cathedral, said: “This is exactly the kind of collaborative, distinctive tourism offer that Carlisle and the Borders Tourism Group is working to encourage. North Cumbria has a rich, vibrant visitor economy of its own which is rooted in heritage, culture, landscape and exceptional hospitality.
“This initiative shows how we can create experiences that feel genuinely different to those found in the Lake District. It’s about giving visitors more reasons to explore, stay longer and discover just how much this part of Cumbria has to offer.”
The collaboration introduces three distinct packages designed to meet varying customer needs and budgets throughout the 2026 racing season:
- Silver Package (from £209 per person): A one night stay at award-winning Netherby Hall, premium hospitality at Carlisle Racecourse, return transport and exclusive guest amenities.
- Gold Package (from £299 per person): Includes all Silver benefits plus an additional night for a relaxed two day escape.
- Platinum Package (from £499 per person): The ultimate luxury experience featuring two nights’ accommodation, premium race hospitality and an exceptional Michelin-starred dining experience at Pentonbridge Inn.
Bookings for the 2026 season are now open with availability limited across select race days.
Carlisle Racecourse
Easter Saturday Family Extravaganza Raceday.
Seventh race at Carlisle
19th April 2025
Photograph Jonathan Becker
