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.
Cumbria’s First-Ever Community Flag
On Friday 5th September 2025, Carlisle Cathedral came alive for a truly historic occasion - the unveiling of the first-ever Community Flag for Cumbria.
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Alexander Scott, the High Sheriff, Dr Geoff Jolliffe, community leaders, entrants, and residents from across the county all came together to celebrate this remarkable moment of unity and pride.
A Flag by the People, for the People
The winning design, created by Cumbrian artist Ben Walker, was proudly presented by the 1st Wetheral Brownies, blessed by the Interim Dean, and then raised high above the Cathedral for everyone to see.
This flag was brought to life entirely by the people of Cumbria. It’s a flag for everyone - schools, clubs, businesses, and individuals alike - to fly as a symbol of pride, unity, and belonging.
While it complements our much-loved historic county flags, the Community Flag stands apart: it’s not a flag of authority, but a shared emblem for all who call Cumbria home.
A New Symbol for a Proud County
Cumbria was one of the last counties in England without a community flag. Raising one now marks a huge and timely milestone, giving us all a shared symbol to celebrate who we are — our heritage, our landscapes, and our people.
Thank You, Cumbria
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in bringing this to life — the designers, judges, voters, and all who joined us for the unveiling at Carlisle Cathedral. This flag truly belongs to all of us.
Get your own flag here.
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.