Police carry out night-time economy operation in South Lakes
The South Lakes Neighbourhood Policing Team carried out an operation on Saturday 7 February aimed at addressing and preventing recreational drug use in licensed premises during the night-time economy.
Last updated 11th Feb 2026
Part of the force’s wider Operation Regulate, officers were joined by colleagues from Westmorland and Furness’s Licensing Department to visit 12 licensed premises across Windermere, Bowness and Ambleside.
A passive drugs dog assisted the operation, helping identify individuals who were in contact with or in possession of drugs.
Several stop searches were also conducted in relation to drug possession, and officers identified a number of premises found to be in breach of their licence conditions, which will be followed up.
Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Simon Totten said:
“The purpose of this operation was not specifically to target drug dealers; instead, our focus was on individuals who may be using illegal substances recreationally while visiting licensed venues in parts of the Lakes.
“This has been something that has consistently been raised to us as a priority issue for the area.
“While no arrests were made during the operation, several licensing issues were identified which we will look to progress.”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen added:
“We want the public to go out and enjoy themselves. However, we won’t abide individuals using illegal drugs in our pubs, bars and restaurants.
“The night-time economy is for everyone, and it’s unfair for people to be made to feel uncomfortable or unwelcome due to drug use.
“This operation was also a good opportunity to check that our licensed premises are following legislation and regulations such as age verification.
“We’re incredibly lucky to live in a county with some of the best pubs in the UK, so it’s important that we ensure everyone can enjoy them safely.
“I know the Constabulary will continue to carry out operations like this across the county to keep you safe.”