Cumbrian Home Interiors and Renovation Exhibition showcases local expertise and craftsmanship this spring

A home interiors and renovation event showcasing independent businesses and wealth of artisan craftsmanship from in and around Cumbria will return this Spring. Media stars and upholsterers, Vicky Grubb and Ray Clarke, (BBC’s Money for Nothing and the Discovery Channel’s Salvage Hunters: the Restorers) will bring their podcast ‘Sit on This’ live to the show. 

The Home Interiors and Renovation Exhibition (HIRE Cumbria) will be held at The Castle Green Hotel, Kendal on Friday 20 March, 10am-4pm and Saturday 21 March 2026, 10am-3pm. Vicky and Ray will appear on Friday. 

As well as having access to a range of independent local businesses and experts, visitors can attend talks and hands-on creative workshops (pre-booking required), that will inspire them in their own projects. Interior designer, Anna Bennett of Grove Design London, now based near Ingleton, will give a talk titled, ‘Renovate Smarter: create space without adding square metres’.  Full programme details and FREE Admission tickets are available via the HIRE Cumbria website.

The event is co-founded by Rachel Cabble of Cable & Blake, Kendal, who design, create and sell Cumbrian-produced Herdwick fabrics, and Amanda Holmes, of Frank Holmes Fine Décor, specialists in heritage decorating & restoration across the North West. 

Amanda said: ““We’re building on the success of our first HIRE Cumbria event last year. We wanted to create a platform to showcase the incredible craftsmanship available in our region, championing local businesses that produce truly individual products and services.” 

Rachel, owner of Cable and Blake and upholsterer by trade, said: “Many homeowners love design and innovation and may be renovating their homes. They seek to add character, individuality and personality but often don’t know where to start. This is where HIRE Cumbria comes in – building a bridge between discerning property owners, architects, interior designers and  local suppliers, craftspeople and specialist trades. 

Amanda said: “We are thrilled at the response we have from exhibitors with a few new businesses as well as some familiar faces joining us again this year. We are delighted to have secured the Castle Green Hotel, Kendal, as a brand-new venue with plenty of free parking, ideally situated for easy access from the M6, J37. Exhibitors include Daniel Lacey, award winning furniture maker; Brad O’Leary, a Lake District property renovator who specialises in lime plaster; Jo Vincent Glass Studio, Kendal and Tom Hinson Garden Design, Kendal, among others. Vicky and Ray’s podcast was hugely popular last year. We’re delighted to have them back.”” 

Property enthusiasts can check out what’s on and pre-book FREE admission tickets for the event, on 20-21 March. A limited number of tickets will be available on the door. 

For further information visit www.hire-cumbria.co.uk