Leave Nothing But Memories

Would it truly be ‘spooky season’ without a delightful campfire ghost story? The Lake District is known for its rich history of folklore and supernatural sightings, it’s truly an incredibly magical area filled with an abundance of history and stories often passed down through generations. But I bet you didn’t know about the ghost of Wicked Jimmy, the first Earl of Lonsdale? He is said to roam the lands and estate of Lowther, the very spot we pitch camp in every summer for Kendal Calling. 

If you should ever find yourself amongst the old land and halls. Of Lowther Estate and its grand castle walls. 

Keep a wary eye on the blind spots you pass, and listen for the cries of an ill-fated romance.

For in a place so serene hides a dark gruesome scene, of an Earl and his lover, after death intervened.

The Earl went by many names throughout his life, earning the nicknames: Toadstool Earl, Jimmy Grasp-All, and Gloomy Earl, none of them in any way a compliment to his nature. Living from 1736 to 1802 he was quoted as being “Tyrannical, overbearing, violent, and frequently under no restraint of temper or of reason” so basically, the worst person you would ever want at a dinner party. James Lowther (Wicked Jimmy’s formal name) had the luckiest of blessings to inherit three fortunes, making him the Bill Gates of Georgian wealth. As one would assume of a man born to such privilege he then pursued politics, having a talent for the political gamesmanship of the time. 

Demonized in public and disliked in private, it’s hard to imagine James Lowther having a soft side or soft spot for others in general, but surprisingly he did have affection for one individual, and that was for his mistress Betsy Lewes. Betsy was the daughter of an innkeeper who was said to have returned the sentiments, and was later installed into a house by James not far from London, where she was spoiled with all kinds of luxuries. 

Tragically, where James Lowther’s great fortunes seem to run out, Betsy passed away not too long after. It is rumoured that Jimmy, inconsolable with grief, refused to admit that she had passed away. He is said to have dressed her and dined with her decaying body, eventually coming to some sense and keeping her body in a glass-lidded coffin; she was finally laid to rest 7 weeks after her death. 

The Earl died on the 24th of May 1802 where it was rumoured that his corpse had leapt from his coffin during his funeral, and that his spirit still roams Lowther Castle in its now out placed Georgian dress. On the anniversary of his funeral, if the moon is full, you may even spot his ghostly carriage through the grounds of Lowther Castle.

Whatever the truth is, it certainly ties a very hauntingly macabre bow around the legend. So you never know, next time you’re in the fields with us and Kendal has gone quiet from sleepy festival goers, Wicked Jimmy may be afoot, still stuck in 1802 forever yearning for his beloved. Happy Halloween Kendal Callers!

A huge thank you to hauntedpalaceblog and Lowther Estate for the information on Wicked Jimmy and his tragic end, check out their webpages for more info!

“an incredible experience, with incredible people”

Not our words, the words of the immortal Rick Astley! He’s not wrong either – Kendal Calling 2023 was a stunning weekend where the camaraderie of the audience spread to the artists – with notable collaborations and secret sets happening across site. That familiar air of something special returned to the fields of Lowther Deer Park as the weekend progressed culminating in our end of weekend firework bonanza soundtracked by Kendal legends, Lottery Winners.

Scouting for Girls and the legendary Nile Rodgers & Chic kicked off the weekend with a bang on the Main Stage while Chai Wallahs swung open it’s doors as the travelling tent welcomed TC & The Groove Family and many more. For us though, the highlight of Thursday night was simply being back in those fields, with a pint of Kend’ale, wandering around and taking in the sights for the first time in a year.

Oktoberfest

Speaking of our favourite beer – our Bavarian palace returned for another round of Oompah fun! Nothing will get you in the festival spirit quite like walking into a packed tent of people singing along to a brass cover of ‘Sweet Caroline’. Truly the place to go for a party throughout the weekend, the tent took Thursday night in the fields to new peaks as we danced on the tables to Twisted Time Machine’s Thursday Night Fever!

Dick and Dom

Parklands, Friday

As has become tradition, TV legends Dick & Dom opened the upside down garden of Parklands, drawing in a colossal crowd for the largest game of Bogies known to man! Who knew these two Saturday morning stars were so well versed in drum and bass?!

Example

Main Stage, Friday

In a close to the wire moment, Example arrived on-site and immediately went on-stage to deliver an incredible high energy set packing in all the hits alongside a few well-known singalongs. Returning for the first time in nine years, it’s safe to say Example was the perfect warm up for the evening’s headliners.

The Lathums

Tim Peaks Diner, Friday

Kendal veterans will know that Tim Peaks Diner is a world unto it’s own, with incredible spontaneous happenings each year. This year was no different with The Lathums playing a not-so-secret-set on Friday afternoon. Even more special though as the set was recorded, pressed onto vinyl and made available for sale on-site come Sunday afternoon thanks to our friends at Press On Vinyl, with all proceeds going to The Lathums’ own charity.

Kasabian 

Main Stage, Friday

Arguably our biggest headliners to date, Kasabian took to the natural amphitheatre we call the Main Stage on Friday night – bringing their arsenal of hits with them. From the opening moments of ‘Club Foot’ – we just knew it was going to be carnage. Serge commanding the crowd like nothing seen before – an incredible way to close day one at Lowther.

twisted time machine’s abba disco 

Desert Island Disco, Friday

You were the dancing queens Kendal! For the second year running, our most popular disco was devoted to 70s legends ABBA. You could hear the singing from the Desert Island Disco around site as a bunch of you Super Troopers belted out the hits until the late hours.

Mel C

Main Stage, Saturday

“I’ve waited so long to play this festival!” – Mel C lauded the weekend on her Instagram account. If only we knew, we’d have asked earlier! A true dream to have a real life Spice Girl in the fields this year. Bringing solo hits and of course, a few 90s classics, this was one of those perfect afternoon moments in the natural amphitheatre.

kids calling

Weekend long

Providing entertainment for the next generation of Kendal Callers – Kids Calling settled into it’s new home next to the Picturehouse – with activities galore! From giant inflatable slides to craft workshops to live theatre shows – there was never a dull moment for the little ones here!

Frank Turner

Parklands, Saturday

Frank Turner brought out everyone’s singing voices with a set that included a heartfelt tribute to fellow musician, Frightened Rabbit’s Scott Hutchinson. As a true friend of the festival, it was a joy to have Frank back and the intimate surrounding of the tent made the performance all the more special.

LOTTERY WINNERS

Main Stage, Saturday

Having risen through the ranks from their first appearance opening the House Party stage to virtually nobody back in 2010 – Lottery Winners made their Main Stage debut! Complete with a guest appearance from Frank Turner – this was a truly monumental set that we won’t forget anytime soon.

Rick Astley

Main Stage, Saturday

Dazzling in his salmon pink suit, Rick Astley proved he’s the eternal crowd pleaser on the Main Stage as he covered Harry Styles’ ‘As It Was’ only to then be joined by KT Tunstall for a rendition of AC/DC’s ‘Highway To Hell’. Naturally, he closed his set with everyone’s favourite internet meme hit, ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’.

Lost Eden

Weekend long

Our cornucopia of curiosity returned with a feast for all the senses! Always our favourite area of the festival, the Woods took on new life as it was adorned with art installations and micro-venues galore – including the new addition of Rimski’s Yard – a chaotic ramshackle workshop home to the wackiest performances on-site.

Blossoms

Main Stage, Saturday

Stockport’s favourite sons came flanked by the Mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham! After a long journey from opening the Main Stage back in 2015 – the boys finally took to the headline spot 8 years later – and what a set it was! Tom Ogden giving his best Jarvis Cocker as he swerved through banger after banger.

The summer of love parade!

Across Site, Sunday

Featuring giant puppets, live drumming from Batala and signs made from our on-site workshops – The Summer of Love parade weaved its way across site on Sunday afternoon. For a moment in time, we were transported back to the sixties as we stood in amazement at the spectacle of it all.

KATE BUTCH & CRUDI DENCH’S LIP SYNC LOLLAPALOOZA

The Soapbox, Sunday

Variety is the spice of life and the key to a great festival experience – away from the singalongs and the stunning art installations – you could find any manner of cabaret and comedy in The Soapbox! Our highlight though was our resident drag queens Kate Butch and Crudi Dench leading the audience in a Ru-Paul-style lip sync for your life extravaganza..

Royal Blood

Main Stage, Sunday

Brighton rock duo Royal Blood took to the stage on Sunday and ensured they rocked the life back into our already wet crowd. Channeling the blues-rock dynamism of the likes of the White Stripes and the Black Keys as well as amping up the ferocity with scuzzy riffs and blustering energy, they sang well-loved singles such as Little Monster, and Kendal Callers were even thanked by singer Mike for their hardy persistence to party no matter what weather.

the magic teapot

Lost Eden, All Weekend

Singalongs round an open fire, nestled within the beautiful Woodlands of Lost Eden! Whether you were lucky enough to catch pop up sets from acts like Cate or Lime Garden – or simply stumbled in to belt out Mr Brightside – The Magic Teapot proved itself as the cosiest place to end the night.

FIREWORK BONANZA

Main Stage, Sunday

We always like to close out the weekend with a bang, and after Royal Blood had torn apart the Main Stage, that was rather easy! As the weekend drew to a close, we got the chance to relive it with a special highlights package accompanied by the unofficial anthem of Kendal, ‘Start Again’ by The Lottery Winners. An unforgettable moment that will live long in our memories. As we think about it now, it gets us all excited to return next year…

Co-op is back at Kendal Calling this year! Swing by to pick up beers, wines, Lunch Meal Deals, hangover busting breakfasts, burgers for your BBQs, late night munchies, emergency sun cream, toothpaste etc.

It’s all in store onsite at your convenience, so don’t worry about remembering everything and pack a bit lighter. And with awesome DJs, performances, prizes and games in store you can rock out while you shop too!

How to find us:

All festival goers will be able to access the Co-op, located near the village green.

Opening times:

Thursday 9am – 2am
Friday 7am – 2am
Saturday 7am – 2am
Sunday 7am – 2am

And this year Co-op Members SAVE MORE in store with Member Prices on festival favourites.

Members save 50p on Lunch Meal Deals and save £1 on our iconic Irresistible Sea Salt & Chardonnay Vinegar Crisps, Doritos Tangy Cheese & Chilli Heatwave. Eat Sleep Save Repeat! (Please note Member Pricing is not available for Click & Collect)

Not a Co-op member? Download the Co-op App now and join us for just £1 (you get back on your first shop). Save your membership card in the virtual wallet on your phone, so you’re set to scan at the tills and save with Member Prices at the festival.

Sign up now and get £3 off a £10 shop to be redeemed in ANY Co-op store. With Member Prices now in all our stores you can start saving straight away. And, of course, because it’s Co-op, every time a member shops with us you give back to local communities too, which is always nice. So why aren’t
you a Co-op Member?

Sign up and save more today.

Pre-order your festival essentials with Click & Collect

Why not get ahead with Click & Collect – back again at Co-op’s onsite store this year. Simply place your order online and collect from the hatch at the side of the store. Click & Collect is open NOW until Sunday 30th July https://shop.coop.co.uk/festival/kendal-calling Minimum spend: £15 

Costs £1 to become a member. See coop.co.uk/membership for terms and conditions. Selected products. Subject to availability. Member price & non-member price in store valid until 27th – 30th July. Online prices may vary. Member price only available instore when you scan your Co-op
Membership card.

For those of you staying in Great Plains, Deer Lodge and Tangerine Fields – you will be able to shop in the Co-op and take your shopping back to your camp, with the exception of alcohol. This is due to the route being through the arena. We have looked at many options to put a second store in however this hasn’t been possible this year! If taking your shopping back to these campsites, please make sure to keep a hold of your receipt to show when going through security.

Pack Less

Don’t heave loads of heavy stuff around. Just pack your camping gear and leave the everyday essentials to us. From meal deals and beer to milk and toothpaste, our pop-up stores have everything you’d find in your local one.

Restocked Every Day

We’ll be re-stocking each and every Co-op pop-up store on a daily basis, so you can shop for all your favourites as well as any everyday essentials as and when you need them.

Open When You Are

We’re awake when you are, open every day until the early hours with a resident DJ to keep you dancing in the aisles.

JUST UNDER A WEEK ‘TIL WE’RE BACK IN THE FIELDS!

As we get into the final days of building our own little world up in Lowther Deer Park, here is all the essential info you need for this year’s festival! We can’t wait to welcome you all back for another stellar weekend in the fields!

You have until noon on Monday to book your parking and receive a hanger in the post! The hangers help us enormously to limit delays on the gate and get you into the festival as quickly as possible as our traffic team can quickly point you in the correct direction. Help us to help you by booking in advance, plus you’ll save £17 by doing so!

If arriving on Friday, please plan to arrive outside the peak travel times of 12:00 – 18:00. If you’ve booked your Thursday ticket and will be joining us a day early, arrive at your leisure! The music doesn’t begin until 5pm on Thursday so you’ll have plenty of time to get in and get settled before the music starts!

DOWNLOAD THE FULL INFO PACK

Now, we’re sure you’re all fully in the midst of preparing so we’ve compiled a few extra bits of advice in the drop down menu’s below:

not had your e-tickets?

Not to worry! Just head to SeeTicket’s customer service portal here, login with your email and reference number and you will be able to download your tickets. Any issues, drop them a line through their customer service portal and they’ll be happy to help!

Parking and Live in Vehicle hangers have been sent in the post, if you have not received a hanger by Tuesday 30th July please let us know and we can ask SeeTickets to send across an e-ticket for entry.

OTHER COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

MY PARKING PASS SAYS FRIDAY – SUNDAY BUT I’VE GOT A THURSDAY TICKET?

Not to worry, if you have a Thursday ticket, your parking pass will also cover you for the Thursday too. This is also true of any campsite upgrades such as Emperors Field, Great Plains, Deer Lodge or Tangerine Fields. Once you have a Thursday ticket, all your other tickets are then valid from Thursday too.

i have an upgraded campsite ticket (emperors field, great plains, Deer Lodge, Live-in Vehicle, Tangerine fields) – if I have a thursday ticket, can i use this campsite on thursday?

Yes! Your Thursday ticket works in conjunction with other tickets so if you have a ticket for an upgraded campsite AND a Thursday ticket, you can stay in that campsite on the Thursday night too! No extra charges, nothing additional to book.

MY TICKET HAS MY FRIENDS NAME ON IT, WILL I BE ABLE TO USE IT?

Yes, don’t worry, this will be absolutely fine!

when will the set times be available?

They’ll be available within the lanyard once you’re on-site.

Can we purchase Soap Opera or Posh Privy on the day?

We recommend purchasing these tickets as soon as possible, as these tend to sell out before show. 

Can I leave and come back to the festival across the weekend?

You will be able to leave and enter the site, and will only need one parking pass for the entire festival.

what form of ID do you accept?

We strictly only take: Driving licenses, provisional or full, Passports and Citizenship cards as forms of ID. Birth certificates are not accepted.

i have a general weekend ticket, which are the general campsites?

All weekend tickets include access to our standard camping: Great Holmes/24 Hour Party People, The Shire, Haye Parks, Saddleback View / Family Campsite & Quiet Camping.

Please find more info on all our campsites here.

WHAT IS THE ALCOHOL POLICY?

Alcohol is allowed into the campsite on your first trip only. We ask that each person only brings a reasonable amount for themselves to enjoy (note, no glass bottles as the festival is home to many deer, so please, protect the deer park).

Alcohol is not allowed to be taken into the arena. We apologise to those who think this is unfair however the festival is subsidised by the profits made from the bar and without it we simply would not be able to bring you all the great acts and entertainment on offer without drastically increasing the ticket price (which we don’t want to do!)

As always, we like to keep our bar prices within the arena in line with other festivals (often a bit cheaper on locally sourced ales!) and offer our festival goers good value.

my question isn’t answered here

Please download the essential information pack above – this should answer most questions. For anything further, please delve into the information section of our website here.

essential packing list

  • 🎟️ Tickets: You won’t get very far without these! Remember that you need to hold a weekend ticket in order to attend, these are valid from Friday to Sunday. You will need an additional Thursday ticket to access anywhere on the festival from Thursday, including the campsites.
  • 🎫 I.D: If you’re looking to purchase or bring in alcohol across the weekend, you may be checked for ID by our security staff.
  • 👛 Wallet: Kendal Calling is a cashless site we’d recommend bringing both your debit / credit card and a back up method such as Google or Apply Pay. Google / Apple Pay work off NFC and therefore don’t need signal to make a payment.
  • ⛺ Tent: Your humble abode for the weekend!
  • 🛏️ Sleeping Bag:  Although it’s summertime, it can still get rather cold at night. A sleeping bag is a great way to have a comfortable night’s sleep!
  • 📞 Your Phone: This is the best way to keep in touch with friends/family over the weekend. Of course you can also show your e-tickets on your phone too! A worthwhile tip is putting your friend/families phone number on your lock screen just in case you lose it.
  • 🥤Reusable Bottle: As part of our sustainability efforts, we have more free drinking water points which are even easier to find, with clear signage. We’d recommend everyone bring a reusable water bottle.
  • 🧼 Toiletries: Make sure these are packed for good hygiene across the weekend! We recommend: Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Mouthwash, Rehydration Sachets (for the inevitable hangovers), Washable Flannel, Deodorant, Sun Cream, and Anti-bacterial Gel. Remember to pack a towel if you’ve got Soap Opera tickets!
  • 🧻 Toilet Paper: it’s always handy to have a roll, just in case!
  • 🔦 Torch: This will be particularly useful for late night toilet visits and trying to find your tent after headliners.
  • 🗑️ Biodegradable Bin Bags: These are amazingly handy when collecting and disposing of your rubbish at our campsites, as well as to put dirty clothes/muddy stuff in when coming home. If you forget, don’t worry – our campsite crew will be able to give you one!

WHAT TO WEAR

  • 🥾 Wellies and Walking Boots: A good pair of comfortable walking boots will help keep your feet comfortable all weekend. Although we hope for a sunny KC, the Lakes are well known for four seasons in a day. It’s therefore recommended that you pack a pair of wellingtons or walking boots in case rainy weather does make an appearance. Throw in some good pairs of socks to keep your feet warm!
  • 🧥 Jumpers/Hoodies/Blanket: As it can get chilly throughout the night, these will help keep you warm and comfortable. We also recommend a rain coat for potential rainy days!
  • 🕶️ Sunglasses: If the sun does make a visit, make sure to pack sunglasses to give your eyes a break.
  • 🧢 Hats: Likewise, a hat can always be helpful in protecting from the sun!
  • ☮️ Your High Seas costume for Sunday: This year we set sail on the High Seas! Whether you’re a pirate, mermaid, sea creature or landlubber – we can’t wait to see your outfits come Sunday afternoon! Do join us for the parade on Sunday from 4pm near Desert Island Disco.

ADDITIONAL EXTRAS

  • 🪑 Camping Chairs: If you’re the kind of people who likes to sit round camp in the mornings, chairs will make your stay much more comfortable!
  • 👂 Ear Plugs: For those of you who are light sleepers, these can be they key to a good nights rest.
  • 🚿 Dry Shampoo: Its hard keeping up appearances all weekend, dry shampoo will be your best friend in this department in keeping your hair looking clean and fresh.
  • 🩹 Duct Tape: We’re certain enough duct tape can fix any problem – including any accidental rips and tears in camping equipment!

WHAT NOT TO BRING

  • 🚫 We have a list of items we prohibit here
  • 🧻 Disposable wipes: We advise all customers to not bring disposable wipes with them. Not only do they contain plastic and other non-biodegradable materials, but when these plastics break down into microplastics, they can enter the food chain and disrupt entire ecosystems.
  • 🚬 Disposable vapes: While we will allow them on-site, please don’t litter them. Find a bin, take them home or alternatively please purchase a reusable one in advance. We will not be selling any disposable vapes on site as these are incredibly damaging to the environment.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN ON SITE

  • 🚽 We have added more toilets at the Main Stage, located in a mega block at the top left corner. Please bare in mind that these will get very busy across the weekend, if the queues are large, you are only a short walk through the arena snicket to the toilets at Calling Out and the two blocks at Parklands. Both Parklands and Calling Out toilet blocks have female urinals too!
  • 🚽 While on the subject, toilets will always be quieter while the acts are on stage, to save time queuing, take a minute to go during the performance.
  • 💖 Look after each other! Often regarded as one of the friendliest festivals in the country, Kendal Calling is a community. Please look out for one another across the weekend. If you need help, please speak to a steward, security member or head to the Welfare tent located in the Village Green.
  • 📝 Keep an eye out for The Parish Council Noticeboards around site! 👀

Since 2009, our Calling Out stage has hosted some of the world’s most exciting artists and has been home to our legendary late night indie discos! Mumford & Sons, The 1975, and more have appeared on our intimate new music stage, so if you’re looking to catch the next big thing Calling Out is the place! We have collected some of the biggest artists who have performed this stage in the early days of their career, for a glimpse back at some of Calling Out’s most iconic performers. 

Red Rocks

Mumford and Sons

In 2009, Lowther Deer Park became the new home of Kendal Calling, and with our new home we also saw a massive variety of new artists performing with us. Calling Out welcomed fresh faced Mumford and Sons to its stage for an unforgettable night of lyric belting and dancing. The British folk rock band went on to win the 2013 Grammy Album of the year with Babel, and even developed their own music festival, Gentleman of the Road, There’s hardly a soul alive that doesn’t know the words to Little Lion Man, and we are proud to have hosted them so early on in their amazing career!

Lollapalooza

The 1975

2013 was a special year for Kendal Calling, not only did we go on to win ‘Best Medium Festival’ at the UK Festival awards but our Calling Out stage was also host to the new up-and-coming pop rock band, The 1975. Performing hits like ‘Robbers’ and ‘Girls’ this gig has gone down as one those ‘I was there’ moments.

Love them or hate them, The 1975 have gone on to be one of the biggest pop rock bands of all time, headlining festivals and winning awards with each release since their black and white debut.

Catfish and the Bottlemen

Kendal Calling 2014 was a show of intergalactic proportions, the theme being outer space of course. Absolutely nothing could dampen the spirits of that years crowd, rain or shine. British indie rock band Catfish and the Bottlemen performed in Calling Out, up-and-coming at the time however you would have thought they were headliners already given their electrifying stage presence and the way the crowded belted out iconic stadium-ready tunes like ‘Cocoon’ and ‘Kathleen’. We then had the pleasure of welcoming them back in 2018 to close out the whole show on the Main Stage!

Blossoms

Blossoms have risen through the ranks over the years, and in doing so have become a Kendal favourite. Rolling onto the scene back in 2016, long before they became headliners, they first joined us in Calling Out. Performing tunes from their debut album, including the mega hit ‘Charlemagne’ – it was clear for anyone to see that these lads had a very bright future ahead!

In 2022, the band released their fourth album, ‘Ribbon Around The Bomb’ and this year, it all comes full circle as the Stockport boys headline Saturday night at Kendal Calling 2023!

Loyle Carner

2017 saw Stereophonics and Manic Street Preachers take to the Main Stage, but it was also the year Loyle Carner joined us in Calling Out! The London born rappers on stage energy was infectious as he gave us an unforgettable performance. 

Carner’s debut album entitled ‘Yesterday’s Gone’ was also released this year, garnering acclaim from music critics with The Independent naming it the album of the year. The album was also nominated for a  Mercury Prize this year, and In 2018, he received two respective Brit Award nominations for British Breakthrough Act and British Male Solo Artist.

Idles

In 2019, we welcomed one of the loudest bands to ever grace Lowther Deer Park – IDLES. Little did we know the heights they would reach as their second album propelled them to headline status. The band would go on to lead a rejuvenation in British punk music, with bands like Fontaines DC, The Murder Capital and Working Mens Club all continuing the charge.

The Guardian has described Idles as “Like no other British rock band of their generation” and we feel truly privileged to have seen this band in our Calling Out tent before those festival headline sets came calling.

The Snuts

2019 was an absolutely stellar line up in Calling Out and opening that weekend was none other than The Snuts. Tne Scottish indie rockers have fully cemented themselves as Kendal legends. With the festival taking a few fallow years, Kendal Calling returned in 2022 and none other than The Snuts found themselves headlining our Calling Out tent, a true testament to how much they had grown in those years! Maybe we’ll be able to swoop them back another year!

Check out our 2023 Calling Out line up here!

With Kendal Calling fast approaching, the hype is getting all too real! What better way to keep the excitement going than to announce our Calling Out line-up!

Over the years, this iconic stage has played host to some of the best up and coming music from across the globe, including The 1975, Mumford and Sons and IDLES.

2023 see’s the return of Kendal favourites Circa Waves occupying the headline slot on Saturday night while The Hunna will close out the weekend in the big top.

Get your singing voice ready as TikTok sensation William Joseph Cook will also be joining us, along with rising indie pop stars Rachel Choueiri and Katy J Pearson.

On Friday night, longtime friend of the festival Chris Hawkins’ Awesome Friends will be taking over the tent to bring you some of the freshest tunes around from cult megastars Wunderhorse, indie songstress Matilda Mann and stalwarts of the scene, Spector.

Although we’re excited about the music, we’re equally excited to see our tent transformed into another world! For those of you that joined us in 2022, you’ll know our tents are anything but ordinary with each taking on a life of it’s own as step inside, and of course, this will be the case once more as we take inspiration from this year’s theme.

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Arts5

Here at Kendal Calling we pride ourselves for bringing incredible live acts and arts to the Lake District for the biggest weekend of the summer. We’re so fortunate to have such a beautiful landscape to transform into our magical wonderland each year, but we aren’t the only ones who admire the area surrounding us. Wildlife and greenery thrive for the rest of the year thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Lowther Estate. 

We are proud to be hosted by Lowther every year, they are passionately committed to improving the land and wildlife of the estate along with being proactive in their vast conservation efforts. From incorporating tree planting, introducing new heritage animals, and natural habitat protection. They are key players in bettering the fields we hold dear.

As part of the conservation efforts, they have taken up rewilding, allowing the English Longhorns to roam freely on the fields for the rest of the year like our distant roommates, each bringing their own unique personalities and quirks that only add more charm to an already flourishing area, “The cows definitely have their own personalities” explains Laura, a member of the Lowther team “working with them over the last few years the staff have gotten to know them well. It’s great to see the calves grow and learn from the herd.” In the summer months these majestic creatures can be seen utilising the wetlands, rivers, and streams to cool off in, a pleasant contrast to the once near-uninhabited area. 

It was also delightfully confirmed that as of last week, Lowther now has 48 calves on the grounds. That’s a small village of Longhorns who are vital in bettering the vegetation and agriculture that surrounds them.“They are amazing at creating vegetation mosaic and diversity” explains Jim Bliss, the Conservation Manager at Lowther Estate “They transport seed from our woodlands and meadows into other pastures and they expose soil with their heavy foot prints allowing seeds to reach soil and germinate.”

With each Longhorn born onto the Estate comes an adorable name to pair with it, “All females have names. Each year we use a different letter. Currently in 2023 all heifers born start with ‘B’. So far names include; Beech, Blossom, Bluebell, Betty, Barbie, Birch, Brooke, Bambi and a few others” explains Jim “for example if a cow was called Grape, her calf would be called Vine” so in theory we could have a mother cow named KendalCaller, and then all offspring could be named after a stage (this isn’t a hint, but if a member of the Lowther team happens to see this and loves the idea we are fully on board).

The Longhorn lineage has had a massive positive impact for the team at Lowther. Laura described that a top moment for her has been “the birth of our first heifer calf back in November 2019 – Lowther Park Una. She has grown well since then and I’m pleased to report she had her first calf on 3rd May this year.” Una and her family along with the other 46 cattle like Grape and her daughter Vine, could live where you pitch your very tent or park your campervan.

Lowther takes on the approach of “nature friendly farming” as explained by Jim, “this has a focus on the delivery of benefits towards nature recovery as our primary focus. This involves managing our cattle holistically to get our grazing pressure right. Alongside this grazing plan, we have done a lot of work with habitat creation to help improve the environment alongside the cattle” and we hope our attendees will take on this approach too, by remembering we share the land with the Longhorns as well as other wildlife, and to help make sure we don’t leave any unwanted items or rubbish that will disrupt the cattle’s abode. 

Lowther Estate have made ambitious changes to our annually adopted home, from their nature friendly farming to their conservation efforts, they have allowed natural processes to return to the land, which has allowed for wildlife to thrive. The Longhorns are only a taste of the positive impact put into rewilding, and we love watching the area only continue to flourish. 

We are so thankful that we get to borrow this stunning area and live amongst the beauty of Lowther Estate every year, and you never know, maybe you’ll even spot a Longhorn during your visit…

Visit the Lowther Estate website here and learn more!

Kendal Calling is all about escaping for the weekend. Each year, the fields are adorned with beautiful decor and arts pieces and we’d like you to get involved!

We’re looking for talented artists, fabricators and all round creatives to bring new installations to the fields. Tell us your great idea, and get the chance to make it!

Whether it’s an interactive light installation or a thought provoking sculpture, we’d love to hear your ideas. We have a £10,000 fund to help artists bring their creations to life and showcase them as part of the fabric of our festival.

Kendal Calling is as much about the experience as it is about the fantastic bands who join us in the fields each year, and the art pieces scattered around site are key to our otherworldly vision for the festival.

If you’re interested in bringing your work to the Lakes this Summer, please fill out the form below, Our deadline is the 8th May.

APPLY HERE

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It’s less than 100 days until Kendal Calling is back in the fields once more, so the countdown is officially on. To celebrate, the festival today unveils the spectacular line up for Chai Wallahs, the renowned touring stage which will play host to a line-up which is, quite simply, filled to the brim with world music, jazz, hip hop, reggae, funk and soul.

Chai Wallah’s unique touring venue has played host to some of the best afrobeat, funk, reggae and hip-hop on the planet over the last 15 years. Festival goers at Kendal Calling can expect nothing short of amazing sounds from across the globe accompanied by incredible pizza and atmosphere, with the real ale tent conveniently located right next door. This year’s line-up is not to be missed, teeming with hotly-tipped and hugely talented artists performing a wealth of genres. Afro Cluster is the Cardiff-based collective renowned for their very own mélange of afro funk and hip-up. Not only that, the band comes with a full horn and rhythm section, sure to deliver a loud, proud, live show. They join the line-up for Chai Wallahs alongside free thinking, British born, Irish-Ugandan poet, rapper, singer, songwriter Amy True who has supported heavyweights Public Enemy and Mos Def, collaborating with Akala and Benjamin Zephaniah & Asian Dub Foundation. 

Get Back! And get set for the Beatles Dub Club at Chai Wallahs this summer, with a very special DJ set showcasing The Fab Four like never before. Beatles classics will be intertwined with reggae, ska, latin, hip hop, funk and even drum & bass as arguably the greatest band ever take on a whole new twist. Plus, the award-winning ensemble led by multi-instrumentalist Hannabiell Sanders, Hannabiell and The Midnight Blue Collective will bring a high energy, exhilarating fusion of Afro-Caribbean & Latin percussion, Jazz, Afro-beat, and Funk to Chai Wallahs.

The stunning line-up continues, with DJ, producer and turntablist JFB who’ll be spinning the freshest Drum’n’Bass, Hip-Hop, funk, breaks and bass, as well as Lazy Habits – the six-piece group whose sound is inspired by New Orleans jazz, soul and hip-hop, woven with lyrics about modern British culture. Fans will be welcomed to join one family under one groove as TC & The Groove Family ft. Franz Von head to Chai Wallahs at Kendal Calling. The 10-piece collective create music which celebrates the coming together of cultures, including afrobeat, breakbeat and jungle. Will and The People are also billed for the stage; the gritty Brighton band of multi-instrumentalists bend and break genres, and their set at Kendal Calling will be no different.

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The Lowther Estate takes great care of our Kendal Calling home during and after the festival, with incredible rewilding and environmental projects. They have been able to reintroduce animals and plant life to the fields and neighbouring land. 

It is due to the continued efforts of Lowther and other friends of Kendal Calling that we are able to put on our festival every year, and we are continuously thankful that we are able to call Lowther our home as the wildlife flourishes.

Another friend of ours, South Cumbria Rivers Trust, have recently been nominated for a Dam Removal Award for their successful efforts to remove the Bowston Weir. They were able to accomplish the first major weir removal on the River Kent, standing 3 meters high and spanning 37 meters. It was constructed in 1874 to divert water to power Bowston Mill for the local paper making industry. Redundant weirs and dams are scattered across our rivers, however there is a growing movement to remove these structures as we now understand the ecological damage they cause.

VOTE HERE for Bowston Weir removal

This removal has stemmed from collaboration with the Environment Agency and Natural England to identify, investigate and deliver work that benefits the River Kent and its tributaries, as a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Bowston weir removal forms part of the highly acclaimed Cumbria River Restoration programme, which aims to restore the gorgeous rivers that neighbour Kendal Callings home, benefiting the people and wildlife.

This one weir removal alone has seen an improvement to river form and function, improved migration, navigation, flood benefit and provided a 44% biodiversity uplift!

We are so excited to report that The South Cumbria Rivers Trust is a finalist for the Dam Removal Award 2022 (just when you thought you’d seen everything!), alongside four other finalists from across Europe.

We need your help in casting votes, lets help congratulate everyone for their amazing efforts in maintaining and improving the land around our great county: 

Please show your support and vote here for the Bowston Weir removal by South Cumbria Rivers Trust!

VOTE HERE for Bowston Weir removal

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