Ahead of Halloween, and with 28 Years Later also filming in the region, we have considered the best spots to hideout should a zombie apocalypse ever hit Cumbria.

And with its diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and lakes, Cumbria offers several ideal hideouts to fend off the undead and avoid large hordes.

1. The Lake District mountains

Cumbria is home to some of the highest peaks in England, such as Scafell Pike and Helvellyn. The rugged, high-altitude terrain would make it difficult for zombies to traverse, giving survivors a safe vantage point. These remote locations are also isolated, making it easier to avoid detection. Building a makeshift shelter on one of these summits could provide a long-term base.

2. Abandoned Mines and Caves

Cumbria has a long mining history, and the old, disused mines that scatter the area provide a hidden refuge. Mines like Honister Slate Mine offer a complex underground network where zombies would struggle to navigate. With ample space and hidden entrances, survivors could fortify the tunnels and ride out the apocalypse deep below ground.

3. Whinlatter Forest

Located near Keswick, Whinlatter Forest is England's only mountain forest and offers dense woodland cover. Its maze-like trails and thick tree coverage would make it hard for zombies to track human movement. Moreover, the nearby Go Ape adventure park could be useful for high-ground defence strategies, with its network of rope bridges and platforms.

4. Lowther Castle Ruins

Lowther Castle’s vast grounds and ruined structure could offer a stronghold. The fortress-like stone walls are defensible, and the expansive grounds would provide room for agriculture, ensuring food supply. Its strategic location also offers an easy escape into the nearby forests if necessary.

5. Islands on Ullswater and Derwentwater

Taking refuge on one of the islands in Ullswater or Derwentwater offers natural isolation. Zombies can’t swim, so setting up camp on an island would offer an impenetrable hideaway. You could use boats to shuttle supplies from the mainland, while the surrounding waters provide a natural defence.

6. The Winchester Guest House, Keswick

For those with a more relaxed attitude, a la Shaun of the Dead, you might just want to head to The Winchester bed and breakfast in Keswick, have a nice cold pint, and wait for this all to blow over.

With a combination of high-altitude mountains, hidden caves, dense forests, and island retreats, Cumbria could be an ideal setting for survival.