Tourists have been warned of new fines facing visitors to the Lake District this year. It comes after pushback from locals who noticed an increase in anti-social behaviour from tourists in this scenic part of the country. The Lake District is popular for campers, hikers and adventurers, thanks to its wild countryside views, serene lakes and magnificent peaks. But an influx of tourists can have a negative effect when people don’t treat the area properly. 

Westmorland and Furness Council intends to impose Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) in several parts of the area as locals report an increase in littering and other anti-social issues. An average of 18 million people visit the Lake District every year, many of whom choose to camp there. The PSPOs will be implemented in Askam, Dalton, and the National Trust sites Blea Tarn, Coniston East Shore, and Windermere West Shore.

Visitors in these areas could be charged £100 by Cumbria Police for the following offences:

• Dog fouling
• Irresponsible drinking
• Littering
• Abandoning tents
• Using disposable barbecues
• Fly-camping (illegally camping in areas of natural beauty)

If the fines are not paid in time, a higher fine of £1,000 could be dished out to those found offending. The council is set to introduce these fines in early 2026, but no exact date has been given yet. 

Locals have been campaigning for such measures for some time. Judith Derbyshire, Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety, said: “We are delighted our communities have backed these proposals and as a result, we will introduce this useful tool in even more areas to help deter anti-social behaviour and protect our valued local spaces.”

“We understand the frustration residents feel when they see the impact that irresponsible behaviour can have on our communities and natural landscapes,” she added. “Many people have called for stronger measures in these areas to allow enforcement action when needed, and this is exactly what we are aiming to deliver.

“Our goal is for everyone to enjoy Westmorland and Furness responsibly and to leave no trace, rather than issuing fines. These Orders are used to safeguard the places that matter to us all.”

A consultation was launched last year, and 90% of participants supported the suggested measures. A further consultation happened on January 6, 2026, which could see the PSPOs extended to more areas. 

Friends of the Lake District  conducted a survey, which found that 97% of people encountered litter when they visited The Lakes. Meanwhile, 80% saw barbeques or small fires in the summer months and 77% saw fly-camping. 

Jez Westgarth, Assistant Director of Operations for Cumbria and Lancashire National Trust, said: “We are pleased to see that three new Public Space Protection Orders are now in place and include areas of National Trust land.

“Through these PSPOs, we welcome stronger enforceable protection to support local communities, nature and access to our land.”