Kendal Mountain Festival, a cultural feast of adventure, is set to return this month, and it's anticipated to be the biggest yet.

Kendal co-director Clive Allen has revealed a surge in demand for tickets.

He said: “Tickets have been selling very strongly, up to 100 per cent ahead of last year.

"We know that accommodation is now fully booked up for miles around Kendal, so we’re definitely looking at a very busy Festival.

"It’s a great boost for the area, generating in excess of £5m for hospitality and accommodation providers, and genuinely international; we know this is the biggest event of its type in the world.”

On Thursday, November 16, the Festival's opening ceremony begins at 4pm in the Basecamp at Abbot Hall Field.

A procession will follow from Highgate to Market Square featuring bands, stilt walkers, and entertainers.

Crowds can expect plenty of thrills, including a daring stunt biker and slackline walker, ending with the official Kendal Christmas Light switch-on.

Approximately 250 individuals will grace the stage across the Festival’s four-day schedule at various venues; including Brewery Arts, Kendal Leisure Centre, Kendal Town Hall and The Box at Kendal College.

A remarkable line-up of speakers include record-breaking mountaineer Kristin Harila, cycling legend Sir Bradley Wiggins, television presenter Helen Skelton, Everest adaptive climber Hari Budha Magar, travel author Sara Wheeler and many more.

Local schoolchildren can join for two adventure-packed sessions with free event Kendal For Schools, and families can enjoy the Family Friendly Sessions.

Central to the Festival is its unique selection of featured films.

The event will screen 170 films, selected from nearly 500 entries, across 17 categories.

Those unable to attend can access the films via the Kendal Mountain Player, the Festival's streaming platform.

The Festival’s heartbeat is its 'Basecamp' at Abbot Hall Field, which is free for all visitors.

They can explore a variety of outdoor exhibitors, enjoy free stage events, food and beverages, all while immersing in the Festival atmosphere.

The Festival’s parent company, Kendal Mountain Events, has also reported a rapid increase in activity beyond the November event.

Co-director Steve Scott said: “Our 2024 UK Tour now covers over 40 dates across the country, our second North American Tour kicks off in January, and we have several one-off tours or events planned. We’re also excited to announce our first multi-location climbing competition; The Kendal Mountain Masters, coming in early 2024.”

Jacqui Scott, Kendal Mountain Events CEO, said: “Our team is delighted at the solid growth of the ‘Kendal’ brand and the significant role it now has in gaining visibility for the town both at home and overseas, supporting local businesses and its cultural sectors.”

Book your space at https://tickets.kendalmountainfestival.com.