A community flag for all of Cumbria!
From its lakes and fells to its vibrant towns and coastline, Cumbria is a county rich in beauty, history and character. Now, thanks to a truly community-led initiative, it’s one step closer to having a flag that reflects all of that, and more.
Thousands of residents have taken part in an unprecedented public competition, sharing ideas, casting votes, and showing just how much Cumbria means to them. The journey so far has been inspiring, and with judging now complete, the winning design is almost ready to be revealed.
Scroll down to find out how we got here, why this matters, and what happens next.
Judging now closed – Cumbria’s community flag moves a step closer!
With judging now complete and 3,901 votes received, the people of Cumbria have made their voices heard in the search for the county’s first ever community flag. Thank you to everyone who voted!
This unprecedented competition captured the imagination of people across the county and beyond, with designs submitted by artists, schoolchildren, community groups and individuals, all aiming to create a flag that reflects the beauty, history and identity of Cumbria.
What is Cumbria?
Cumbria is the third largest county in England. Formed in 1974, it brings together the ancient counties of Cumberland, Westmorland, and parts of Lancashire and Yorkshire, uniting communities across the Lakes, the fells and the coasts. Whether you were born here or choose to call it home, being Cumbrian is something to be proud of.
Why does Cumbria need a flag?
While many English regions and counties already have community flags, Cumbria has remained one of the few without a modern, inclusive emblem. This flag will give Cumbrians a shared symbol, something that schools, local businesses, sports clubs and individuals can fly with pride and without the need for permission. It’s a way to celebrate Cumbria as a whole, while continuing to respect and honour the unique and diverse heritage of its historic counties.
Doesn’t Cumbria already have a flag?
Cumbria already benefits from some wonderful historic flags, including those of Cumberland and Westmorland. These are proud symbols of our heritage and remain important to many communities. However, Cumbria does not currently have a community flag, a modern emblem designed to represent the area as a whole.
Flags of authority are official symbols used by governments or councils, often featuring coats of arms and restricted in use. By contrast, a community flag is for everyone, a public emblem anyone can use, from schools and sports teams to local businesses and individuals. It celebrates shared identity, pride, and belonging.
The Cumbria Community Flag will not replace existing historic flags but will complement them, giving the county a unifying symbol to fly proudly alongside its historic banners.
A community-led initiative
This project began with a simple yet powerful question from a member of the public: “Why doesn’t Cumbria have a flag?” That question resonated widely and inspired action to fill a long-standing gap in the area’s identity. The initiative was championed by the then High Sheriff of Cumbria, Mr Christopher Holmes, with the support of HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Mr Alexander Scott. Both serve in voluntary roles.
Importantly, this flag initiative has been entirely driven by the people of Cumbria. Every element of the competition and development process has been supported by volunteers, community groups, and individuals passionate about celebrating Cumbria’s unique character.
This is truly a project by the people, for the people. Flying the Cumbria Community Flag will always be a voluntary choice, no one will be obliged or required to display it. Instead, it will stand as a symbol of pride, unity, and shared identity for anyone who chooses to embrace it.
Cumbria is now one of the last remaining counties in England without a registered community flag, making this initiative both timely and important. By creating this modern emblem, Cumbria joins other counties in celebrating a collective identity that is accessible to all.
Voting closed on Five Kings Day
Voting closed at 5pm on Five Kings Day - Sunday 13 July. This date marks the historic gathering of five Dark Age kings, including the King of Cumbria, outside Penrith in 927. This rare moment of unity and symbolism, making it a particularly meaningful time to close this community decision.
What happens next?
A special unveiling ceremony will take place this autumn at Carlisle Cathedral, where the winning design will be revealed. Everyone who submitted a flag design will be invited to attend as a thank you for their contribution.
The winning flag will then be registered with the Flag Institute, becoming Cumbria’s official community flag, free to be flown across the county and around the world.
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| 843.34 KB |