15 arrests made during Kendal Calling weekend

Police say 34 crimes were recorded during this year's festival, which was attended by almost 40,000 people

Author: Natalia AntoniwPublished 6th Aug 2026

Fifteen people were arrested during the Kendal Calling festival weekend.

Police say 34 crimes were recorded, including assaults, drug offences, public order offences, sexual offences and thefts.

A small number of the reported crimes are still being investigated.

Police have also paid tribute to a teenage girl who died during the festival weekend.

Enquiries into the circumstances surrounding her death continuing.

Chief Superintendent Matt Kennerley, Gold Commander for this year's event, said:

"First and foremost, our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of the teenage girl who sadly died during the festival weekend.

"While a small number of crimes were reported, these remain low in comparison to the significant number of people who attended the festival. Where offences were reported, officers responded appropriately, and a number of investigations remain ongoing."

He added: "I would like to thank our officers, staff and partner agencies for their professionalism and commitment throughout the planning and delivery of the event."

Cumbria's Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen said:

“I’d like to extend my thoughts to the family and friends of the young girl who sadly died at Kendal Calling. As a father myself, I can only imagine the heartbreak her family is feeling at this time.

“Kendal Calling is a huge event in the county, I’m pleased to see that organisers, Police and partners worked together across the weekend to ensure the majority were able to enjoy the festival safely.

“Thank you to everyone that worked the festival to keep attendees safe and thank you to those who attended the festival in a peaceful and lawful manner.”

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