“As Cumbria gears up for another busy visitor season, local tourism and hospitality businesses are preparing for the influx of visitors - not only with refreshed menus and room refurbishments, but also with a critical eye on their insurance policies.
“From boutique B&Bs to large hotels, the county’s economy thrives on tourism. But alongside the buzz of bookings and footfall comes a set of risks that demand preparation. The right insurance provides protection against potential threats and ensures that businesses can continue to operate whatever the future may bring.
“Like many places, Cumbria is experiencing increasingly erratic weather patterns, with flooding, in particular, a growing concern. With the changing climate affecting the reliability of weather forecasts and increasing the frequency of extreme events, it’s important that your property is covered adequately.
“Without the right insurance in place, a single weather-related closure could lead to thousands of lost revenue during peak season.
“As more businesses branch out into outdoor activities and offer a range of different services, there’s also a growing need for comprehensive public liability insurance. Just one mishap on a hillside or an injury during an organised activity could result in costly legal action. Insurance tailored to experiential tourism helps protect both operators and those taking part in activities.
“Even if you don’t offer experiences, public liability insurance is vital for protection against incidents involving members of the public that could occur in connection with your business.It covers you against the cost of any potential compensation claims from third parties for personal injuries, loss of or damage to property, and death, and is essential to avoid hefty compensation claims, which can sometimes run into millions of pounds.
“Meanwhile, the rise of online booking platforms, digital payment systems, and cloud-based guest management tools means that even a small countryside pub can now hold sensitive customer data. With cyber threats on the rise, cyber insurance is an increasingly popular safeguard, covering everything from data breaches to phishing scams.
“Ultimately, insurance isn’t just about mitigating risks - it’s about enabling confidence. When businesses feel secure, they can focus on delivering great service. And when guests know that a business is resilient and professional, it enhances their overall experience. In today’s competitive market, peace of mind is everything.
“As the season kicks off in Cumbria, it’s a timely reminder that insurance should sit alongside staffing, marketing and other essentials on a pre-season checklist. Whether it’s to cover cancellations, equipment damage, liability issues, or cyber threats, the right insurance can be the safety net that keeps your business thriving, no matter what the season brings.”
H&H Insurance Brokers works with tourism and hospitality businesses across Cumbria, operating across the North of England, the south of Scotland and Wales; it has eight regional offices as well as its head office in Carlisle.
To find out more about finding the right insurance for your business, contact Kara via her email here or call 01228 406290.