Cumbria

About the flag

The Cumbria Flag is a community flag proclaiming the unique identity of this historic border region.

Ben Walker’s winning design features a bold horizontal zigzag pattern in green and yellow, representing the rugged local landscape.

Above this, on a blue field, is a heraldic ancient crown, evoking Cumbria’s past as an independent kingdom.

A public vote chose Ben’s design from a shortlist of six chosen by a panel of local judges from 100s of entries.

Flag Institute Communities Vexillologist Philip Tibbetts, who advised the competition, praised the new flag.

It conveys a ‘clear and unique meaning rooted in Cumbria’s landscape and history'.

And it also meets the technical requirements of good design.

After a blessing and presentation to Lord-Lieutenant Alexander Scott, a hoisting ceremony at Carlisle Cathedral on 5 September unveiled the winning flag.

For the organisers, the new emblem will represent Cumbrian people, history and landscape for generations to come.

As a shared symbol of identity and pride, it complements the historic county flags of Cumberland, Westmorland, Lancashire and Yorkshire.

With no links to government or politics, it will be free to fly for any individual or group wishing to express their links with the region.