UK tourism - National Park - The Lake District

Question 1

Why are people attracted to The Lake District? (4 main reasons)

Answer 1

• Scenery- beautiful, mountainous scenery. Lakes.
• Activities- walking, sailing, fishing, small cruises.
• Heritage- Beatrix Potter, William Wordsworth.
• Transport links- tourists travelling from Manchester use M6, West Coast Main Line railway between Glasgow and London.

Question 2

Why is tourism important in The Lake District?

Answer 2

• A huge part of the local economy (visitors spend £600 million per year).
• Lots of jobs are created due to tourism.
• It keeps local services busy.
• Money is put towards providing better services for local people.

Question 3

What’s the problem with lots of tourists? (Give 2 examples).

Answer 3

• Traffic congestion
• Footpath erosion
• Properties are bought by tourists, putting house prices up.
• Then locals (especially the young) cannot afford housing and move out of the area.
• Jobs are often only seasonal.

Question 4

How are we dealing with the problems tourists create?

Answer 4

• One way systems to reduce congestion.
• Replace worn-out footpaths, add hard wearing surfaces, and put signs in place highlighting why it is vital for people to stick to the path.
• Improve public transport to reduce strain on car parks in the area.
• Promote attractions in the Lake District which are not in the main honeypots, to draw tourists out from these areas and reduce overcrowding.
• Additional taxes on 2nd homes.