North Lakes Tattoo Show bringing in its 13th year at Old Fire Station

North Lakes Tattoo Show will be heading to the Old Fire Station on March 31 to April 2, as it enters its 13th year. 

Organiser Colin Fell, who has been penning ink for 48 years, said it's only getting 'more and more popular'.

"With Brexit, it does impact international artists coming to work, but we've got 50 great UK artists on the bill - within 48 hours, the shows are usually full. 

Colin Fell from Mike's Tattoo's who organised the show at 2015 expo in Shepherd's Inn (Image: Stuart Walker)

"Last year because of covid, people were still a bit unsure and but we still managed to draw in 500 over the weekend. 

"This year, sales are up and we're expecting 1,000 plus coming through the doors," he said. 

Patrons can pre-book if there is a particular artist they want or walk-ins will be accepted on a first-come first served basis. 

"We always get a few who get brave after a few shandies and end up getting something daft put on no doubt.

"There'll maybe a few regrets come Monday morning," he said. 

It's not just all about tattoos however, it's as much an experience and a celebration of local businesses. 

"We've got Phil Saunders, a busker from the town, he busks all weekend for us, he's really good at creating a great atmosphere. 

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"We've also got Stackerz grill coming, tea and coffee offered, sweets from Lilly's Treats, and a woman coming with delicious homemade cakes. 

Bez from Sunderland working on Phil Ryan's tattoos at 2013 expo (Image: Johnathan Becker)

"We've also got plenty of jewellery for sale, plenty of traders selling bits and pieces during the show.

"It’s a celebration of all styles of tattooing brought to Carlisle," he said. 

Colin, who originally started his craft in 1980 with Carlisle's Mike's Tattoos, has a feeling this year will be the biggest and best fun yet. 

If you'd be interested in attending the only tattoo show in the northwest, you can buy tickets via www.northlakestattooshow.com/tickets

Friday admission is available on the door for £5 on the day of the event.