What is it that brings tourists and day-trippers flocking to the Lake District and surrounding area, in turn contributing massively to the local economy?

The majestic lakes and fells are probably the biggest attraction, offering superb scenery and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities including climbing, kayaking, horse riding and ghyll scrambling.

Then there are the numerous literary connections - Wordsworth, Ransome, Beatrix Potter - and stately homes such as Sizergh Castle, Muncaster Castle and Levens Hall.

But nothing stays the same forever and tourism experts warn a region's 'offer' must constantly evolve and be upgraded to ensure it keeps ahead of the competition, both in this country and abroad.

The days of most people being happy staying at a low-key bed and breakfast have gone - the area needs a real mix of accommodation, from B&Bs to camp sites, yurts, budget hotels and sophisticated luxury hotels.

Luckily there are people and organisations in this area who are willing to invest, such as in the new 'champagne bar' due to open soon in Bowness and those who are looking to develop new events and attractions.

The cardboard race in Low Wood Bay is growing ever-popular and is a colourful and fun event. And at Carnforth, close by in Lancashire, town councillors are exploring the possibility of a Brief-Encounter-themed sculpture to capitalise on the iconic movie, which was partly filmed in the town.

The Lake District has often been accused of lacking indoor, wet-weather attractions although The World of Beatrix Potter and the Aquarium of the Lakes are two existing ones that stand out.

The proposed Cliffhanger Rooms at Backbarrow - an escape room attraction which involves participants solving clues to get out - sounds like an innovative idea which will attract plenty of visitors. It is the brainchild of the man who runs Lakeland Segway, another venture offering even more for visitors to do.

The future for tourism, then, looks bright - but it's also reassuring that, come what may, visitors can always simply put on their walking boots and head to the fells to enjoy the Lakes at their best.