2020 FESTIVAL OVERVIEW

KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

2020 IN NUMBERS
WELCOME TO THE KENDAL
MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL 2020 REPORT
In any normal year, we’d be reminiscing about
CONTENTS
47 154 SPEAKERS 863
how busy the 2020 Festival was, how great it
was to see people gather from across the UK in FREE TICKETS FOR
Kendal for their favourite outdoor social event, CHILDREN’S 2 Introduction
and just how many people had joined us in LITERATURE
2 – 3 2020 In Numbers
packed film screenings, specialist sessions and BRANDS & THE LOST SPELLS &
the Basecamp. 4 – 7 2020 Festival Highlights
ORGANISATIONS DARA MCANULTY
This was not a normal year.
Obviously we don’t need to go into the reasons why,
INVOLVED 8 – 9 Kendal in the Community
10 Social Media & Marketing
340,206
but it was still a shock when we realised that, with only

124,824
a couple of months to go, we needed to take Kendal
11 PR
fully online. This was a new world, essentially creating
an entirely new event, where suddenly we became VIEWS OF 12 – 13 Film
broadcasters. We were determined that we would UNIQUE WEBSITE ONLINE CONTENT
still involve people live on stage, otherwise it would USERS OCT–DEC 14 – 15 International Film
look like an endless Zoom call, but we were working Competition
in a fully Covid-compliant environment which added 16 – 19 Speaker Events

25,000
complexity. We needed to find the right digital platform
to reliably deliver film, live events, recorded content, a 20 – 23 Kendal Mountain
Literature Festival
virtual Basecamp, brand support for our partners, social
VIEWS
integration and ticketing. We had to create a pathway
to reach the launch point which involved three seamless
VIEWERS IN COUNTRIES 24 – 25 The Boardman Tasker
website changeovers. Then there was the actual Award For Mountain
production, creating studios with a tech team to match; Literature
producers, directors, floor managers; the full works.
26 – 27 YETI Everyday
We’re proud that, despite these challenges, our incredible Adventure Stage
team rose to the occasion and not only succeeded
in bringing the Festival online; they helped create an 28 – 29 Brand Engagement
evolution that will influence our future direction.
30 – 31 Virtual 10k
It became an opportunity to curate a unique series of
events featuring inspiring conversations with amazing 75 SPEAKER EVENTS 70+ 1,000 SPECIAL EDITION
32 – 33 Kendal Inspires

200+ FILMS SCHOOLS

people. We went wider and deeper, with speakers from PRINTED PROGRAMMES 34 Kendal Mountain
around the world contributing to our most inclusive and

2,926,676
Festival Tour
diverse Festival ever.
ACCESSED OUR
The response from our audience has been spectacular. 30+ LITERATURE EVENTS FREE ‘KENDAL
35 Kendal 1980 – 2020
Obviously, people missed the human interaction, but
FOR SCHOOLS’ MINUTES VIEWED Digital Platform
they hugely appreciated the ability to watch films
and sessions in their own time over a six-week period, 41+ FREE EVENTS PROGRAMMES 36 Our Partners

1259
allowing them to see more than they ever would at the

2250+
physical Festival.
We are indebted to our partners for stepping up in this
55,600+ FAMILY FILM VIRTUAL
14,920
most difficult of years, allowing us to deliver such a
DIGITAL PROGRAMME
varied programme of events. The benefit was visibility FOLLOWERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA PROGRAMME VIEWS VIEWS ON ISSUU TRAIL
to a hugely increased online audience both in the UK
and internationally; the Festival was viewed in over 80 RUNNERS
countries worldwide, with nearly 50,000 hours of films
and events consumed. Your involvement also allowed
us to build on our outreach initiative; over 70 schools
participated in our Kendal For Schools programme,
inspiring future generations.
Of course, the question everybody asks is, “What will
you do this year?” The answer will only become clearer
as 2021 progresses, but we can say with certainty that
many of the digital, online aspects of the Festival will be

25,000+
built on further, while obviously hoping that we can also

121
get together and share our experiences - and a drink or
two - together again. ARTICLES OF CLICK TO WATCH Cover image:
VIEWS OF THE KENDAL TRAILER
Steve Scott, Jacqui Scott and Clive Allen
Festival Directors “ONLY WEATHER” PRESS COVERAGE OUR HIGHLIGHTS FILM
Women in Adventure Session by Frit Sarita Tam

All other photography courtesy:

Henry Iddon, Frit Sarita, Andrew Richardson

2 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 3
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
2020 FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
When the world turns upside down, sometimes you can still
find gold. And so it was with Kendal Mountain Festival 2020;
planning our first online-only event became an opportunity to
curate a unique series of studio-based sessions featuring inspiring
conversations with amazing people. We went wider and deeper,
with speakers from around the world contributing to our most
inclusive and diverse Festival ever.
“I just wanted to congratulate the whole Kendal
BEHIND THE SCENES
We are delighted that the feedback received is that we looked like a slick
production to those viewing from home but we have to admit it was quite the
learning curve for the Festival team. Luckily we were able to enlist the expertise of
Fluid, who delivered our technical requirements and Glenn Barton of Sparkly Light
Productions who as a respected TV producer was able to guide us through the new
arena of live and recorded broadcasting. We are also grateful that The Brewery
Arts Centre, our usual Festival hub, stepped up to the mark and opened up its
theatre for us to set up stage. Once we all figured out how to use lapel mikes, ear
pieces, and understood camera angles and cues - it was all Lights Camera Action!
Filmed over 16 days in total to provide over 200 hours of viewing content - it was
definitely the most complex and fascinating Festival we’ve ever delivered!
4 @kendalmountainfestival
Mountain Festival Team for an amazing festival
this year, despite all the challenges that have
been thrown our way. You certainly rose to the
challenge of moving the entire festival on-line -
I can’t even begin to imagine the work that
went into this. What really struck me about the
programme this year was the focus on diversity
and inclusivity. This was really refreshing, and I
particularly liked that some sessions were free.”
Lynn Robinson
BMC President
KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
LEVISON WOOD
Leading explorer, writer and broadcaster, Levison Wood joined Festival director
Steve Scott in an enlightening hour long interview focussing on his latest book
‘The Last Giants’ and his epic journey in the Okavango Delta in Botswana.
PRE-FESTIVAL EVENT
GODSPEED LOS POLACOS!
We kicked off the Festival with a live-streamed watch-party of over 400
keen Kendal viewers for the UK premier of multi-award winning feature
“Godspeed Los Polcas’. This genre-bending tale set the tone for 2020 Steve Scottt & Levison Wood
film experience; a wild, experimental, heartwarming tale of adventure
activists, as five university students on a first descent Kayak trip in the
“Equally as immersive a public speaker as a writer, it is
Americas, find themselves fighting for democracy in the Eastern Bloc.
no wonder that, even during a pandemic, Wood found
Consider yourself a passionate, independent thinker of adventure?
a way to capture the hearts of audiences everywhere.”
What else could you turn your mind too? The collective watch-
experience galvanised some exciting reflection; with audience Amy Aed (New Welsh Review)
members getting seriously engaged in our chat room alongside
the movie.
Wow! What a start to #KendalMountainFestival!!
BERGHAUS WOMEN IN
ADVENTURE NIKKI SMITH
Godspeed, Los Polacos! was gripping from start to
finish - can’t wait for the Festival to start next week! Nikki Smith is a professional photographer, rock climber, boulderer, ice
Karen Gee climber, writer and guidebook author, with nearly 200 first ascents to her
name. She also just happens to be transgender.
The 2020 Berghaus Women in Adventure session saw Nikki ‘dial in’ from
her home in Utah to give one of the most stunning talks quite possibly seen
on our Kendal stage. She detailed how she started climbing at 16 whilst
struggling with her identify after the death of her father and how she ‘made
it’ in the climbing world as a photographer, guidebook writer and pro-climber.
But her talk began to tug at everyone’s heart strings when she told us how
over 30 years of being in the outdoors world and hearing the constant jokes
and negativity towards the LGBTQIA+ community made her consider if she
even wanted to live. Her talk carried on to showcase her immense internal
strength to fight to live as her authentic self and now how she is fighting
for the rights of others. It was both compelling and crucial, in showing how
important correct and authentic representation is. A very special part from a
session that had many more stand-out moments.
MONTANE SECRET SESSIONS
We all love a secret. That’s why we invented the ‘Secret Sessions’; our
one-of-a-kind, never to be repeated live events over the Festival week.
Our online version was hosted by the highly entertaining Lonsdale
brothers, Liam and George, in a series of exclusive, intimate, one-off,
online conversations that threw 40 lucky people together in an online
‘room’ with surprise guests including climbers Jesse Dufton, Emma
Twyford and Neil Gresham, runners Jenny Tough and Damian Hall, and
adventurer Antonia Bolingbroke-Kent.
“Absolutely fascinating listening to @AntsBK Emily Davis, Nikki Smith & Rhiane Fatinikun
on a ‘secret session’ tonight @kendalmountain
Seriously considering packing my bags... Huge “That hit me really hard, a very emotional
thanks for all the advice given out!” reality. Such a powerful piece.”
Lis van Lynden Rosina Merrett
@kendalmountainfestival 5
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
2020 FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
OUTDOOR SWIMMING
SESSION THE GOREÉ
PROJECT INTERVIEW
The Goree Project is an initiative created by the US based organisation
Black Kids Swim, to send two African American swimmers each year to
participate in the Dakar to Goreé Island swim – a 3.5 mile swim that
retraces the same path as enslaved Africans some 400 years ago. We found
out more about the project in a fascinating global discussion between
Jonathan Cowie (editor of Outdoor Swimmer magazine), Alice Dearing
(Team GB swimmer and co-founder of the Black Swimming Association),
Ebony Rosemond (co-founder of Black Kids Swim) and Kevin Dawson
(Associate Professor of History at the University of California & author of
Undercurrents of Power: Aquatic Culture in the African Diaspora).
TIKTOK CAMPAIGN
Our platform aims to provide a space for artistic visions that also
support aspiring filmmakers, irrespective of ability. In light of this,
we launched our #AdventureWithMe campaign. We encouraged
individuals to create a TikTok or Instagram Reel expressing how they
perceive ‘adventure’. This competition aimed to attract a younger
audience demographic, furthermore, this goal was achieved as the
majority of entrants were young to mid-teens. The prize gave five
lucky winners £50 and we provided a £50 gift donation to The World
Land Trust.
6 @kendalmountainfestival
Rehna Yaseen, Ann Daniels, Geoff Holt & Rich Parks
LOWE ALPINE
ADVENTURE SESSION
The Lowe Alpine Adventure session focused on showing that there is more
than one way to get into the outdoors, the stories of the speakers took to
get into the outdoors included; proving wheelchair users can still participate
adventure, a career change and recovery from depression, through a local
youth club and answering an advert in the newspaper.
This was all done through by interviews with host, Richard Parks. The session
was incredibly successful, featuring insightful talks, discussions, comparing
experiences and some moments that kept us on our toes!
Hannah Wright, Jemima Longcake, Claire Carter, Alice Aedy & Jack Harries
YOUTH ENVIRONMENTAL
ACTIVISM SESSION
This session platformed two high-profile London filmmakers, influencers
and activists, Jack Harris and Alice Aedy, alongside two young Cumbrian
students, who are both already engaged with environmental social activism
in the local community and on a national level. Jemima Longcake and
Hannah Wright lead an expansive session, articulating the challenges facing
young people, and the routes they personally were developing towards
environmental action. All four spoke of ‘resilient optimism’, and the power of
social media to accelerate communication between diverse groups. This was
an important session for the Kendal team; nurturing our young people to
speak for themselves, and centering their voices at theFestival, in a perfectly
accessible highlight for 2020.
“Thank You for including this in Kendal Mountain Festival -
Jemima & Hannah asked their questions & held the space
in such a professional, empowering & inspiring way.”
Jo Roberts
KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
CLASSIC ROCK ROUND “Loved this discussion;
Will Birkett and Tom Randall spent a mad summer
contrasting
chasing each other around the Lakes, smashing record
characters of Will +
after record, linking each route in the Lakeland section of
the book ‘Classic Rock’ by soloing 70 pitches up to Very Tom - great balance
Severe standard and running 34 miles in between. In this
hugely entertaining session, hosted by UKClimbing’s Rob
of seriousness,
modesty & humour.”
Greenwood, Will and Tom revealed the story behind their Bob Gibbs
rivalry including some decidedly scary moments.
Will Birkett & Tom Randall
THE LOST SPELLS
A magical hour! Literature Festival Patron Robert Macfarlane was joined on
screen by Jackie Morris. Interviewed by Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s ranger Jamie
Normington they spoke about The Lost Spells – a beautiful set of natural
spell-poems, celebrating a sense of wonder, bearing witness to nature’s
power to amaze, console and bring joy. Featuring spells sung by children from
two Cumbrian primary schools, this free event was viewed and enjoyed by
young and old alike.
“Thoroughly enjoyable and deeply inspiring.”
Hannah Field
Jamie Normington, Robert Macfarlane & Jackie Morris
THE WILLOWHERB “Jessica, Pema and Dasom
REVIEW together at
We were delighted to welcome back The Willowherb Review @KendalMtnLitFes !
for a second year. Editor and Festival friend Jessica J. Lee What a dream event!___ _
was on screen with two of the contributors Pema Monaghan @WillowherbRvw.”
and Dasom Young. The Willowherb Review aims to provide
@ninamingya
a digital platform to celebrate and bolster nature writing by
emerging and established writers of colour.
Jessica J. Lee, Pema Monaghan & Dasom Young
TIMBER FESTIVAL
WILDERNESS TRACKS: CAL MAJOR
In a collaboration with the brilliant Timber Festival this was a special edition of ‘Wilderness
Tracks’. Cal Major: ocean advocate, veterinary surgeon, adventure-seeker and stand up
paddleboarder sat down with Geoff Bird to discuss her six nature related songs that
chronicle her journey around activism. She covered why it’s important to remain positive
when discussing the climate crisis, becoming the first woman to paddleboard around the
Isle of Skye as well as grief over losing a friend and how her relationship with the outdoors
deepened because of it. Formidable doesn’t even cut it.
Cal Major
NEW VOICES: AN EXPLORATION OF
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION IN OUTDOOR
Hosted by adidas as a Kendal special at their store in east London; a panel of outdoor specialists discussed
the important topic of inclusivity and diversity in our outdoor communities. The debate covered themes such
as barriers that have historically limited participation, what’s being done to make access easier, and perhaps
most importantly - what we still need to do to make it easier for people of all colour and orientation - to feel
uninhibited to discover and enjoy the outdoors. Chaired by Keme Nzerem, the panel featured; Carmen McIlveen,
a climbing instructor and founder of Project One, a group dedicated to the inclusion, increase and support of
Black And Minority Ethnic people within UK climbing; graphic designer Jaimus Tailor; Phil Young, activist, writer/
broadcaster founder of the Outsiders Project which looks to address the disparities that exist between minority
communities and outdoors culture; the Chief Executive of Lake District National Parks Authority, Richard Leafe;
and Chief Executive of GB Snowsport, Vicky Gosling.
Phil Young
@kendalmountainfestival 7
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
KENDAL IN THE ‘DIGITAL’ COMMUNITY
We strongly believe that everyone should have access to
inspiring stories within the world of outdoor adventure. When
this year we couldn’t bring the Festival to the community of
Kendal and the surrounding areas - we took our content out to
the community - and a wider community at that!
From free talks on our Yeti Everyday Adventure Stage, to morning
motivation well-being sessions, to Family Adventure film programmes and
our ‘Kendal for Schools’; we reached more people that ever before and
more importantly started up conversations that will enable us to continue
to interact with them and Share the Adventure.
“Wow! What an
amazing selection
of films - some funny,
some thought-
provoking and all
inspirational.”
Katie Holland
BAM NURTURE WELL
We introduced our #NurtureWell campaign into our Festival this year.
Now more than ever has taught us the importance of listening to our
body and nurturing our mental health. Along with our Festival partners
at BAM Bamboo Clothing, we had 11 different mindful practitioners
from the UK to Canda; providing free 45 minute sessions across our
website and social media channels. This initiative was gratefully
received and something we’d like to expand moving forward.
8 @kendalmountainfestival
Steve Backshall recorded introductions to our family friendly films
FAMILY ADVENTURE
FILM SESSIONS
In a year where we have all probably spent more time on screens than
we care to admit - we were delighted that our Family Adventure Film
programmes were so enthusiastically received and provided something
that was a little different for families to enjoy watching together. With two
collections, one perfect for those energetic, curious and down-right magical
younger members of the family; the age when everything is a potential best
friend; a dog, dolphin, a snail, or how about a skiing Japanese Melon Bear…
and another one where we encouraged inspired questions from the older
kids; what does it mean to be a native of a place? How does being in water
make me feel better, and most importantly, when can we try aerial silks! With
nearly 17,000 views we are thrilled that we were able to inspire and inform
more young people about the wonders of the outdoors.
“We particularly loved the animals skiing - hilarious!!!!!.
And the kids camping in Lake Superior - really cool oh
and the lady swimming with the dolphin... magical.”
Cora and Padraig, age 10 and 8
“I’m a complete newbie and really enjoyed it!”
Brian Brannigan
“Thank you again for a “Lovely, gentle start to
brill session - some great the week. Perfect for a
stretches and so well tin man like me!”
paced.” Son Ja
Jules Telford
KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
Children from Brough Community Primary School watching films & trying out some experiments
KENDAL FOR SCHOOLS “Thank you for the schools pass for our children - they
THE DIGITAL VERSION loved it! We paused after each film and discussed all
One upside to a digital Festival, was that there was no need to restrict sorts of issues and the children shared some lovely
memories of camping, wildlife and aspirations to get
it to the 1600 school pupils who are able to come to watch ‘Kendal for
Schools’ - our free programme; featuring ‘Science in Adventure’, films out in the future. As a school that hangs its hat on
and Literature Sessions. Instead we were able to use our digital reach its programme of outdoor and adventurous activities,
and take the content to over 70 primary and secondary schools and
it’s been a struggle this year. But the KMF session has
thousands of pupils throughout the United Kingdom and beyond. With
six Film Programmes, two Literature Sessions and two panel discussions given us the push and determination to get out more
specifically for the older students (Youth Environmental Activism and locally. We even had a go at two of Hugh’s science
New Voices) - we were inspired by the impact this content had and as a experiments - the ‘plastic milk’ worked a treat!”
result we have already began to work on how we will rollout ‘Kendal for Phil Cooper, Head Teacher
Schools’ to reach students throughout the year. Brough Community Primary School
Today the outdoor Kendal
community were all taking
part in a litter pick – good work
everyone! I can’t understand
why people do this... So my
hope is that if a 2.5yr old asks
to help pick up litter then the
future looks brighter for our
environment... let’s educate
and work together ______
@tracy_moseley
LITTER PICK UP
Why stop a good deed if you can adapt and improve it? Instead
of having a localised litter pick this year, the pandemic made us
reconsider how our Festival can create an impact for good. We,
along with our friends at Palm, Pyranha and Trash Free Trails
launched a global litter pick up campaign. On the 28th November
2020 at 10am we encouraged everyone to go to their local park,
river, beach or moors and protect our outdoor spaces by ridding
it of trash. The enthusiasm and collective efforts brought people
together through sharing their litter pick with the hashtags:
#kendallitterpick20 and #paddlepickup. We can’t wait for this
movement to gain more momentum in 2021.
@kendalmountainfestival 9
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

SOCIAL MEDIA & MARKETING PR

One of our main communication channels for our ‘Festival goers’ this year has
been social media. We are delighted to say that from constant activation and
Re-strategising from a physical to an online Festival
this year meant we had no geographical boundaries.
x61
PIECES OF
x29
PIECES OF
interaction with our users and brand partners, our followers are now at 55,600+ We attracted 120 pieces of press coverage with a
across all channels. 164% year on year increase. We successfully targeted REGIONAL ADVENTURE
We hosted successful partner giveaways, advertised and recommended content. We also numerous regional and national news media outlets COVERAGE COVERAGE
harnessed our follower’s activities in promoting the Festival, gave live updates and exclusives such as BBC Radio Cumbria to The Guardian, Times

x23 x8
from our wonderful speakers, filmmakers and authors. Travel, the Telegraph and Variety.
This year we hosted Instagram lives; a space for candid and engaging interviews with the As a result of our diverse array of content, this year the Festival
talent from our Festival. The successful reception gained from the Instagram lives, allowed us and its talent were approached for twenty interviews over the
to expand our network reach beyond our usual consumers. Through our multiple social media Festival period. Our Festival was covered in traditional press but PIECES OF PIECES OF
strategies, we were able to reach a global audience who were interacting and sharing their it was also extended in various media outlet’s social channels NATIONAL GLOBAL
adventures with the Festival, ultimately gaining a growing exposure for the Festival and our with major dedicated followings. This was to our benefit as
Brand Partners. COVERAGE COVERAGE
we gained extremely high exposure that translated into ticket
sales when coverage appeared.
SOCIAL MEDIA GROWTH

18.5K 15.6K 17K 2.8K

FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS
EMAIL
424K 344K 129K 699K
NOVEMBER NOVEMBER NOVEMBER NOVEMBER MARKETING
REACH REACH REACH REACH
DATABASE COMMUNITY
4.1K 2.2K 600 1.1K 14,541
NEW NEW NEW NEW
AUDIENCE AUDIENCE AUDIENCE AUDIENCE USERS ENGAGED
9,641
@KendalMtnLitFest
CREATED
POPULAR POSTS 74 EMAILS
SENT
336,719
EMAILS
OPEN RATES
42.65%
CLICK RATES
5.68%
Most liked Most interactions Most follows Biggest reach

IGTV VIEWS
WEBSITE
PAGE VIEWS
772,938
UNIQUE VISITORS
OCT–DEC
124,824

10 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 11
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

FILM “I loved Pedal Through, the

joy and laughter from the
Sharing adventure film digitally held huge potential for our girls was infectious. After
programming. Audiences could consume content at their own watching some (overly)
pace, they could get stuck in to features without worrying serious films their sense of
they might miss last orders at the bar, and they could be having a good time was
adventurous in their choices; experiment with genres or refreshing.”
collections outside their comfort zone, but not their budget. Garry Holmes
Our Festival theme was Nurture, and so our film selections Irakli’s Lantern (Age Is No Barrier) Pedal Through (Bike)

encouraged reflection and growth.

“A wonderful selection of films - such a “Wonderful, powerful film about a
FEATURES That’s Wild
variety, from fun and adventure in the group of amazing women. What a
A digital platform allowed us to select and platform fantastic longer-form mountains, rivers and oceans to more journey - I sank into the bogs with
content, bringing 43 feature films to our audiences screens. Having the
serious educational ones. Many were you, felt the bite of those flies, the
space for stories with greater depth meant we could share some slower-
paced adventures; in ‘Sw!M, we watched one man attempt to front crawl
“Fantastic film! So inspirational to see the impact this awe-inspiring, showing us places and ache of your muscles, but I loved
the length of the Danube, in ‘Chhapaudi’ we joined the mountaineering programme is having on young lives. It really felt like experiences beyond the reach of most the honesty and simplicity of your
efforts of a group of Nepali women raising awareness about mensuration it could be life-changing.” people. Others taught us things about story. Oh how I wish this adventure
taboo, and in ‘Songs for the Water Spirit’ we followed a linguist exploring Claire Chan (That’s Wild) far-off cultures, environmental crises and could be available to more women -
compassion in Himalayan culture. These varied titles might not have filled political problems.” what a change that could bring.
venues in a traditional year, but their popularity proves the appetite for
William Hamill Larissa Robson (Wood on Water)
stories you can really sink into at Kendal. Wood On Water

ADVENTUROUS WATCH “Loic & The Flolopapys

CHOICES just made we want
We added to our core activity curations such as Climb, Run, Bike
to go and have an
with new titles ‘Water’ and ‘Ride’. Viewing figures for these blew our adventure with a
expectations, and we are thrilled to be successfully programming bunch of good friends.
for younger audiences with skate and surf films, and to reflect the Absolutely magic and
huge growth of those engaging with aquatic environments through superb climbing and
wild swimming and stand up paddleboarding during 2020. ‘Outside
venues to boot!”
Thinkers’ firmly established itself as the curation for those who want to
be challenged, and new title ‘Uprising’ focused on youth and activism Anna Forrest
Loic & The Flolopapys Pathfinder
in the outdoor. We loved that our audiences could experiment this year,
and look forward to programming for 2021 with the insight of this
year’s digital delivery.
“Really enjoyed all of these films - a window into the
Danger Daisy world of adventure after a difficult year of isolation.”
Paul Taylor (Mountain Collection)

“Great curation and title. A showcase for the best in “Loved these films, particularly the indigenous stories
the human spirit and endeavour.” that you wouldn’t necessarily see or hear about.”
Rupert Sagar-Musgrave (Uprising Collection) Yasmin Jensen (Human Spirit Collection)

ACCESSIBILITY “I cried and cried watching this

Of course the biggest benefit of throughout various parts. Just wow.
digital, is that almost anyone can Coming from a Pakistani background Freedom Of Expression The Ghosts Above
access it, from anywhere. Last year
so much of these issues resonated
we embraced ‘Openness’, and with
Nurture, we wanted to look after those with me. The beautiful landscapes
and culture of Nepal were captured “I bought my niece who’s just found skateboarding
AUDIENCE INTERACTION
communities establishing themselves
This was huge. On every film page there was a comments section, and
in the outdoor. Diverse representation so wonderfully but also brought so and surfing access to the ride collection!! Loved
boy did our audience have things to say. Filmmakers could respond
was at the forefront of our selection, much awareness to so many issues. the ride collection so much myself - it’s inspired and soon online conversation was following between creatives and
ensuring that everyone who watched
What a film.” her and her cousin to start videoing each other consumers. Kindling connection is what Kendal is all about, and we
kendal this year could see themselves and making a girls skate movie.”
Rehna Yaseen (Chhaupadi) capitalised on the engagement ‘off-platform’ with live Instagram and
reflected in the protagonists on screen.
Chhaupadi Beth French (Ride Collection) Facebook filmmaker Q and A’s to give depth to that experience.

12 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 13
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

THE INTERNATIONAL FILM COMPETITION

Our 2020 awards was a fully produced extravaganza, live
streamed to our audience and all our filmmakers as a Sunday
evening highlight.
In the Studio we had KMF Jury Chair, Keme Nzreme, and Youth Jury
member Joe Plenderleith alongside hosts Steve Scott and Claire
Carter. Jonathan Hourigan; of London Film School, Mary Anne-Ochota;
anthropology and outdoor broadcaster, and Charlie Dark; Mentor and
Run Dem Crew founder dialled in to give their verdicts, topped off with
an interview with Grand Prize winner Adam Brown. The jury awarded a
wide range of films, spanning the globe from the surf beaches of Lima to
Everest itself. All our winners received a cash prize and an original sculpture
from Artist and Alpinist Andy Parkin. The People’s Choice award was
announced at the end of the Festival ‘run’ on the 31st January and the
winner was firm Festival favourite ‘Lock Down, Rock Up’ Nico Hambleton’s
short profile of climber and paramedic Jerome Moffat.

Film trophies sculpted by Andy Parkin 2020 Film Awards: Joe Plenderleith (jury member), Claire Carter (Artistic Director), Adam Brown (Into The Storm
director & Grand Prize winner), Steve Scott (Festival Director) & Keme Nzerem (Chair of Judges)

“Just been watching the ‘winners’ compilation

this evening. So much that is original, thought~
provoking, packed with new narratives &/or just
straight beautiful.”
Kate Rawles

Joe Plenderleith Jonathan Hourigan Mary Ann-Ochota Charlie Dark

“The opportunity to be a part of the Festival really gave
me the confidence and drive to carry on with my pursuit
into the creative space. Being a member of the Jury
allowed me to meet so many inspiring people and gain
lots of crucial advice, alongside the chance to witness
and judge many amazing pieces of film.”
Joe Plenderleith
“Watching a slew of absolutely brilliant, inspiring and
wonderfully crafted films across a range of genres and
then discussing them in depth with an accomplished,
knowledgeable and passionate group of fellow judges -
was simply a dream assignment.”
Jonathan Hourigan
Head of Screenwriting, London Film School

“The Ghosts Above was

hauntingly good! Best
film I’ve seen so far.
Thanks for this Kendal,
great way to explore the
planet during lockdown.”
GRAND PRIZE BEST CREATIVE FILM BEST ADVENTURE & EXPLORATION FILM BEST SHORT FILM BEST CLIMBING FILM JUDGES SPECIAL PRIZE BEST MOUNTAIN FILM
Ben Gill
Into The Storm [En La Tormenta] Then Comes The Evening Piano To Zanskar Lock Down, Rock Up Loic and the Flolopapys Chasing Ghosts The Ghosts Above

“A beautifully filmed and “Incredible film about

insightful articulation resilience, hope, human
of a Gordian knot spirit + running.
conundrum. There’s no @GuorMaker - you
right answer, and now are amazing! A well-
we understand why.” deserved winner.”
BEST ENVIRONMENTAL FILM
John Soady (The Cull) BEST SPORT FILM Rachel Hay (Runner) BEST COMMUNITY AND CULTURE FILM JUDGES SPECIAL PRIZE CHANGEMAKER AWARD PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
The Cull Runner Africa Riding Do Better Together Venture Out Lock Down, Rock Up

14 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 15
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

“I have never ridden a trail

or mountain bike but I loved
watching this session. What
amazing feats of co-ordination,
control and sheer nerves all of
the riders demonstrate.
Fearless!”
Joanna Penney

Nick Wharton & Maddie Cope Dom Ferris Monet Adams & Tom Van Steenbergen
Mammut Mountaineering Session Bike Night

“Rehna, I LOVED your talk so much!

Vedangi Kulkarni, Frit Sarita Tam, Emily Davis, Julie Carter, Rachel Sarah, Jessie Leong,
Rhiane Fatinikun & Kumbi Kariwo Berghaus Women In Adventure Session We were laughing so much, your
personality just came out and you

SPEAKER EVENTS
were totally unafraid to be yourself
and say what you thought. Really
enjoyed the chat you had with
This year, more than any other we relied on the skilful Rich too, so engaging️.”
programming and curation of guest speakers and the best films “What a speaker and great presenter. Rachel Sarah
in competition. Given that everybody was already sick of web Thank you for a great Saturday evening. My daughter
Julie Carter & Jessie Leong Rehna Yaseen
chat and video calls, we wanted to ensure that we retained a said better than Strictly! Praise indeed!” Berghaus Women In Adventure Session Lowe Alpine Adventure Session
sense of true ‘Kendal’ spirit and spontaneity. Anon (Simon Reeve)
We were heartened and humbled by the response from speakers and
presenters alike who joined us either live on-stage in Kendal or via web “I can highly recommend
dial-in, all keen to tell their stories in the most immediate and engaging the Women In Adventure
way. Over 80 inspiring individuals shared their experiences across every Session – funny, touching,
spectrum of outdoor endeavour, with highlights including adventurers and a great show of
Simon Reeve, Levison Wood, Steve Backshall, Jason Fox and Aldo Kane;
the diverse world of
founder of Black Girls Hike Rhiane Fatinikun; top cyclists James Knox,
Reece Wilson and Casey Brown; board riding legend Xavier De Le Rue; mountaineering right now.”
runners Sabrina Verjee, Beth Pascall, Damian Hall and John Kelly; naturalist Rachel Crewesmith
Ray Mears; cyclist and adventurer Vedangi Kulkarini; triathlon stars Alistair
and Jonny Brownlee; plus climbers Leo Houlding, Anna Taylor, Will Birkett, Baz Roberts & Félix Rodriguez Rosie Watson
Tom Randall, Abbie Robinson, Emma Twyford and Maddy Cope. Oh, and Ozone Free-flight Session Running Lands End to John O’Groats
not forgetting the Reverend Kate Bottley. Our thanks go to all of them.
Three words sum it up – inspirational, inclusive and international.
Keme Nzerem & Simon Reeve “Really enjoyed Rosie’s talk,
especially the connections with
local people along the trip and
the message that most people are
kind hearted. hope you make the
rest of trip in due course Rosie and
inspire others to think like you do.”
Nigel Hollingworth
Jesse & Molly Dufton Robbie Phillips, Emma Twyford & Abbie Robinson
Montane Build Strong Bonds Session Patagonia Rock Session

“It’s great to see how Sophie

is using her celebrity to raise
environmental issues and to
Cal Major, Chris Brain, Fi & James Corfe, Sal Montgomery, Eleanor Wong Alice Dearing
& Claire Rutter Palm & Pyranha Paddlesports Session Outdoor Swimming Session presented by Outdoor Swimmer Magazine spread the word on individual
action. Also lovely to hear
how women’s support and
“I thought the Paddlesports Session was hugely inspiring. “That was incredible. I still have goosebumps. communities have helped
A really well balanced programme and a vast range of Even my kids (aged 9 and 11) were enthralled.” Sophie, and how she in turn is
inspiring and natural speakers. A five star session!.” Yvonne Turner inspiring others.”
Lauren MacCallum, Steve Scott, Sophie Hellyer
Peter Knowles (Outdoor Swimming Session) Nicholas Walken & Thomas Stöckli P Curtis
The North Face & Ellis Brigham Snow Night

16 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 17
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

SPEAKER EVENTS
Normally, you can count on our Specialist Sessions drawing
the biggest audiences. Events such as Bike Night and Snow
Night sell out fast and fill our biggest venues to capacity,
creating a high energy atmosphere. The challenge therefore
was to retain key elements of our ‘Session’ experience in a
broadcast style show.
Many of these new look sessions became must-see events due to the
wealth of content we still had at our disposal. The Merrell Mountain Emily Davis, Ash Bhardwaj, Lindsay Hawdon & Ruth Allen Reverend Kate Bottley
Running Session, for example, featured extraordinary ultra-athletes Swiss Tourism Mindful Travel Session
who had beaten long-standing records. With other events we just got
creative and built the most entertaining mix of presenters, speakers and “Thanks for a really enjoyable session. A privilege to “A breath of fresh air.
unique film content. Taking the positives of the situation and bringing listen to four lovely adventurers. Perhaps leave the What a lovely, light take on enjoying the outdoors.”
international athletes in via video link, such as snowboarding legend smartphone behind next trip?” P Curtis (Reverend Kate Bottley)
Xavier De Le Rue, New York based record breaking swimmer Jaimie
Peter Mills (Mindful Travel Session)
Monahan, and pro Tour road cyclist James Knox.
Ella Foote, Laura Sanderson, Colin Hill, Jaimie Monahan & Alice Dearing
Outdoor Swimming Session presented by Outdoor Swimmer Magazine

Perhaps the most exciting factor was the sheer breadth and diversity of
the people who joined us, bringing a huge range of discussion and depth
to the Festival. With the diverse speakers came talks and conversations we
haven’t seen on the Kendal stage before; trans inclusion, the term BAME,
adaptive adventures and the female gaze in adventure films. All of these
topics, plus many more, were important for us to bring to the forefront
and to ensure that they are a part of the outdoors narrative as we start to
move forward as an industry.
Plus, of course, following live-streamed events you could catch up with
everything for another six whole weeks after the Festival week; a huge Paul Diffley, Diane Arthurs, Holly Bradley, Fleur Sabrina Verjee Aldo Kane, Steve Scott & Jason Fox
bonus for our online audience as well as increased coverage and visibility Loveridge & Adele Ward Petzl Underground Session Merrell Mountain Running Session
for our valued brand partners.
Huw Jack Brassington, Damian Hall & John Kelly, Ellie & Matt Green Totally FKT

“Really enjoyed watching Totally FKT as part of Kendal

Mountain Festival. The cameraderie in ultra running
is the best thing about the sport.”
Shirin Shabestari

“Wonderful, Leo Houlding, Matt Pycroft, Anna Taylor Carla Molinaro & Dan Lawson Kumbi Kariwo
& Waldo Etherington Berghaus presents Roraima Running Lands End to John O’Groats Berghaus Women In Adventure Session
warm chat and
great film -
thank you!” “Loved the LeJog session tonight. Although I was not
Bronwyn Harvey
prepared for more gruesome toe footage!”
Lizzie Hamilton
(Over The Edge)

Gilly McArthur & Ellie Fuller Ben Dowman, Jools Walker & Jess Fawcett
Rab presents Over The Edge Rapha Road Bike Session

“A great conversation “As someone who would not consider

between Ray Mears
and Geoff Bird on our
connection (or lack
of) to the nature and
wilderness.”
Phillip Lang
Geoff Bird & Ray Mears
themselves really au fait with the road Sal Montgomery
cycling world I thought this was just
a brilliant celebration of cycling for “I thoroughly enjoyed hearing Sal talk (and laugh!)
everyone that put a smile on our faces.” about her life, how she got into paddling and all of the
Ali Richards amazing places she has been. What an incredibly hard
(Rapha Road Bike Session) working woman, her life should be made into a film!”
Steve Backshall Fiona Marley-Paterson,
Ann Davis Alistair & Jonny Brownlee

18 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 19

KENDAL MOUNTAIN LITERATURE FESTIVAL
Nick Hayes & Beth Pipe Trespass
“Spent the last week in company
of many intrepid writers/artists/
explorers @KendalMtnLitFes
@kendalmountain. Massive online
programme, up til 31 Dec.
Stirring, soulful, inspiring.”
Tanya Shadrick
Mohamemed Dhalech & Dara McAnulty Diary of a Young Naturalist
20
KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
PRESENTED BY
Abigail Melton & Lilith Cooper Polly Atkin & Aimee Nezhukumatathil Anita Sethi, Andrew Wang, Elspeth Wilson, Kim-
Gears For Queers World Of Wonders Marie Walker & Nayeli Urquiza-Haas Open Mountain
Jools Walker & Kate Rawles Back In The Frame
Welcome to the 4th Kendal Mountain Literature Festival. While an online Festival
Caz Graham & Andri Snaer Magnason Ann Lingard Ed Douglas & Bernadette McDonald
cannot recreate the joyous coming together of authors, the audiences, and the cultural On Time And Water The Fresh And The Salt Winter 8000
exchange space – we created something very special online.
Paul Scully, Director of the Literature Festival said “It is clear from watching the interaction of authors
and audiences that last year’s online Festival generated its own sense of community. We have reached
corners of the globe, and the UK, and brought an accessibility to the Festival that we never had before.”
Our Literature Festival Patron, Robert Macfarlane said, “Last spring, as lockdown confined our lives,
millions of us listened with new ears and saw with new eyes. Citydwellers woke each morning to a
deafening dawn chorus, with the birdsong no longer masked by traffic noise. Londoners realised they
lived in a city that was also a wildwood, with almost a tree for every inhabitant. Unable to move, we
thirsted for nature -- and found it closer to home than ever before, and more powerful than ever in its
solace, its distraction, and in the sheer damn hope it gave us, when hope was hard to come by. Online
events lose in immediacy but they gain in inclusivity. People who would never otherwise be able to
attend a festival event in person can this year come together in our audiences from all round the planet Bonnie Tsui Dara McAnulty Ed Caesar
-- and that is hugely valued.” Why We Swim Diary Of A Young Naturalist The Moth And The Mountain
The 2020 Festival featured 35 authors, writers and poets, including the prestigious Boardman Tasker
Award for Mountain Literature. Almost 1500 tickets were sold to 30+ events, giving an estimated
viewing figure of 3300. We were delighted with the feedback from the audience who watched our
events from their homes, and from our authors from around the world.
Here we share a few of the literary highlights from 2020...
DARA MCANULTY
This year we were delighted to welcome Dara McAnulty to the screen.
His incredible book won three major book awards last year including The
Wainwright Prize. In this special session with Mohammed Dhalech, 16-year- Ed Douglas Heather Dawe & Geoff Cox Polly Atkin & Helen Mort
old Dara talks about his moving diary entries about his connection to wildlife Himalaya Traceless Never Leave The Dog Behind
and the way he sees the world. A beautifully written and deeply felt memoir.
“Absolutely superb. A natural storyteller & connector
of ideas & themes. Wonderful to hear about his
writing approach.”
Anon
“Brilliant listening to Dara today. A feast for the ears.”
Jackie Morris
Imogen Hermes Gowar, Mahsuda Snaith & Irenosen Polly Atkin & Jini Reddy Jools Walker
Okojie Hag Wanderland Back In The Frame
@kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 21

Dr Jo Taylor & Kerri Andrews
Wanderers: A History of Women Walking
Geoff Bird & Raynor Winn
The Wild Silence
Simon Bainbridge
Mountaineering & British Romanticism
Jenny Tough, Antonia Bolingbroke-Kent,
Vedangi Kulkarni & Hannah Maia
Tough Women Adventure Stories
“What a warm, generous and
nurturing writing workshop that
was with @anitasethi. I didn’t
want to leave! It’s very unusual to
gain such connection with people
in the space of just two hours -
and on Zoom, too!”
Joanna Dobson
22
KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
Laurence Rose
Framing Nature
Robert Macfarlane & Jackie Morris
The Lost Spells
Kate Rawles & Sophy Roberts
The Lost Pianos Of Siberia
Valerie Trouet
Tree Story
“A really wonderful writing
workshop with @anitasethi as
part of the @KendalMtnLitFes
lots of inspiration, ideas,
examples and exercises.
Glorious! What a way to start a
Saturday. THANK YOU”
El Rhodes
@kendalmountainfestival
Peter Goulding
Slatehead
Claire Carter & Sharon Blackie
Foxfire, Wolfskin and Other Stories
Stephen Fabes
Signs Of Life
Jessica J. Lee, Pema Monaghan & Dasom Yang
The Willowherb Review
NATURE WRITING
WORKSHOP
We were delighted to have award winning author
and journalist Anita Sethi deliver a nature writing
workshop exploring how to observe and describe
the natural world and the relationship between
people,landscape, wildlife, and climate change.
Kate Davis, Polly Atkin & Kim-Marie Walker Open Mountain
“A great event. Such interesting
ideas being discussed - particularly
around the complexity and
diversity of human relationships
with the outdoors.”
Clare Hickman
Ed Douglas & Ed Caesar
THE TWO EDS
Two books about the Himalayas from two
incredible writers – New York Times journalist Ed
Caesar and award-winning writer Ed Douglas.
‘The Moth And The Mountain’ by Ed Caesar – is
the untold story of Britain’s most mysterious
mountaineering legend - Maurice Wilson - and
his heroic attempt to climb Everest alone is
describe by The Times as a “bonkers ripping
yarn of derring-don’t is a hell of a ride”. Whilst
Ed Douglas’ book is a major history of the
Himalaya: an epic story of peoples, cultures
and adventures among the world’s highest
mountains. The authors interviewed each other
in these two brilliantly received talks.
“For anyone looking for a moment
of escape from the mayhem of our
world, this is tremendous tale of
adventure by @edcaesar.”
David Grann
KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
OPEN MOUNTAIN
This year was our 2nd Open Mountain event – a
panel discussion with performance prose and poetry,
showcasing people under-represented in the outdoors.
Open Mountain as a project is focused on inclusion
in and connection with wild places, and on redefining
mountain literatures and cultures to include voices and
experiences often excluded or invalidated. The event
was presented by Polly Atkin and Kate Davis. We were
delighted to invite to the screen; Kim-Marie Walker
shared her essay ‘Scrambling’ – the voice of a Black
American, a descendant of Africans enslaved & navigator
of systemic racism, who is indebted to nature’s kinship;
Andrew Wang described his fell running experiences;
Elspeth Wilson discussed how we live in a body; Nayeli
Urquiza-Haas shared a glimpse into climbing cultures
and spaces in Mexico City; and Aileen Mckay spoke
about the outside inside.
“Thank you so much to @KendalMtnLitFes “Incredibly
for having me as part of a wonderful, affirming honoured to
event - it was great to discuss and hear the readings add my voice to
of all the other authors, and so exciting to hear/ mountain and
think about nature (writing) becoming more open.” outdoor literature.”
Elspeth Wilson Kim-Marie Walker
RAYNOR WINN
THE WILD SILENCE
After wowing our audience with ‘The Salt
Path’ back in 2018, we were delighted to
welcome back Raynor Winn to our Festival.
Raynor continued her inspirational journey with
‘The Wild Silence’ - a luminous story of hope
triumphing over despair, a love letter to the
natural world in all it’s wondrous glory. Radio Polly Atkin & Jini Reddy
4 presenter Geoff Bird was in conversation
with Raynor who joined us from her home in
Cornwall. A spellbinding session!
JINI REDDY
WANDERLAND
“That was a delight. I’m close to Shortlisted for the Wainwright Prize Jini Reddy’s
the end of The Wild Silence and ‘Wanderland’ is a book in which the heart leads,
loved The Salt Path, so it has been all things are possible and the Other, both wild
great to listen to Raynor discuss and human, comes in from the cold. Jini was
inteviewed by Polly Atkin, in this delightful
both of them.”
session – a paean to the joy of roaming, both
Kerry Robinson figuratively and imaginatively, and to the joy of
finding your place in the world.
“A witty, gentle, original and very
modern quest for the magical
(not the mythical) in Britain’s
landscape, which both made me
laugh and moved me.”
Robert Macfarlane
Geoff Bird & Raynor Winn
@kendalmountainfestival 23
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
BOARDMAN TASKER AWARD
FOR MOUNTAIN LITERATURE
Patrick Baker
“Thank you for including me, someone who doesn’t fit
into the traditional bracket of ‘mountain writing’.”
Emily Chappell
On 17 May 1982 Peter Boardman and Joe Tasker were last seen on Mount
Everest attempting to traverse The Pinnacles on the unclimbed North
East Ridge at around 8250 metres. Their deaths marked the end of their
contribution to a remarkable era in British mountaineering.
The Boardman Tasker Award highlights afresh the memory of Pete and Joe,
but it also seeks to do more than just that. The Award recognises and rewards
outstanding literature concerned with the mountain environment: books which
will in turn challenge and inspire their readers, perhaps to climb or explore the
world of mountains, perhaps to write or perhaps to look at the world in a different
way. Perpetuating and refreshing the challenge and inspiration of mountains
through literature is one way in which we seek to remember them.
The winner of the Boardman Tasker Award is a book that Pete and Joe would be
proud of being associated with. This year there were 22 books submitted on a
broad range of topics. The Chair of Judges, Katie Ives along with David Canning
& Mike Kosterlitz had the difficult task of selecting the winner from the five
shortlisted books.
Peter Foster Patrick Baker
“What a privilege it has been to be shortlisted. For as long as I can
remember I have followed the award knowing that the short list
always delivers an eclectic range of writing that challenges and
deepens our perceptions of mountains and high places.”
Patrick Baker (shortlisted author)
24 @kendalmountainfestival
Emily Chappell (shortlisted author)
Filmmaker Henry Iddon
“Delighted to have a BT event at all
and hugely appreciative of everyone’s
efforts especially Henry Iddon.
An extremely enjoyable 2 hours online
on a Saturday evening.”
Steve Dean (BT Secretary)
The Boardman Tasker Award Shortlisted Authors
Event and Award Ceremony was filmed and edited
by filmmaker and Kendal Mountain Festival’s Arts
& Cultural Officer Henry Iddon. Host of the event,
Stephen Venables says, “I was deeply sceptical
about doing remote interviews on Zoom. But
techno-guru Henry Iddon did such a skilful job
of filming and editing, between Norfolk, London,
Bristol, Kendal and Spain. True, I missed the more
rapid fire back-and-forth that you get live on stage
– and of course I missed having the usual audience
of loyal Boardman Tasker friends and supporters
there in the room – but despite all that we got
some good conversations going.”
KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
THE SHORTLIST
THE WINNER “Frankly floored. I am
TWO TREES MAKE A FOREST enormously honoured
BY JESSICA J. LEE to receive this prize and
A poetic and deeply moving account so grateful for the close
of Taiwan’s mountains, waters and readings of the judges.
forests that interweaves the author’s For Two Trees to be seen as
experiences of hiking with recollections pushing the genre forward
of political, cultural and family histories, exceeds my greatest hopes.
creating portraits of landscapes haunted Thank you!”
by memory and longing. Jessica J. Lee
On winning the award, Jessica J. Lee says, “I was completely
overjoyed for Two Trees Make a Forest to be shortlisted—
and then go on to win—the Boardman Tasker Award for
Mountain Literature. When I set out to write the book, I
wasn’t entirely sure where the book would fit in terms of
genre: was it nature writing, biography, travel or something
else entirely? The term ‘mountain literature’ thus feels a
fitting umbrella for this strange book, and I am honoured
for it to be recognised in memory of Pete and Joe. The
attentive readings of the judges felt truly attuned to the
nuances of the book: as an author, I felt not only read but
seen, and for this I’m very grateful. For this story to now
find a wider readership among those who love mountain
environments and to allow more readers who have
historically felt underrepresented in such literature to see
themselves on the page… well, that is an author’s dream.” “Purist mountaineers might question the widening
parameters of ‘mountain literature’ represented on
“The Boardman Tasker Award is definitely getting the shortlist, but for me this was the huge scope and
more diverse... which is great for readers. Another variety of subject matter that made the reading – and
winner worth checking out.” the interviewing – so rewarding. It also helped, of course,
Mark Horrell (viewer) that each of the five books was beautifully written. So
congratulations to all of them, and to the organisers of
the Boardman Tasker Award, which after nearly forty years
continues to go from strength to strength.”
“Congratulations @jessicajlee and to all the
shortlisted authors for @BoardmanTasker 2020. Stephen Venables (presenter)
Such a pleasure to read your work.”
David Canning (judge)
@kendalmountainfestival 25

Jon Deegan & Dave Wynn Jones
Lakeland Ski Touring
Caroline Elliott
Fjord’s Mountain Mission
Tom Phillips & Alistair Shawcross
Packrafting Cumbria
John Wilson
Lake District Paddleboarding
26
KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
John Leadbetter & Skye The Recuse Dog
Lauren Munro-Bennett Harrison Ward
Frog Whitton Round Fell Foodie
YETI EVERYDAY ADVENTURE STAGE
Our mission is to share the adventure and to inspire more individuals to explore,
enjoy and represent the mountains. Our Yeti Everyday Adventure Stage gave us a
platform and voice for our local everyday explorers to reveal what adventure is out
there waiting for us!
The stage opened the conversation involving everything from packrafting across Cumbria to the
life of Mountain Rescue Dogs. We heard from the Lake District Divers keeping our lakes trash free
and unusual finds at the bottom of lakes bed! The Wonderful Wild Women communicated the
importance if the community (especially with the odd year we have all had) and how to safely
start open water swimming. Practical skills and tips were learnt from Adrain Nelhams from the
International School of Mountaineering on how to fund and action your own expedition.
Julie Carter Angus & Declan These motivating talks were free because we feel it is on our ongoing mission to make the
Running The Red Line Lake District Divers
outdoors accessible for all. If you have a story to tell, our everyday adventure is stage is calling
your name. Please get in touch via info@kendalmountainfest.co.uk
Yeti Stage host Becki Vale
“Great interview with Julie Carter, really enjoyed it,
compelling. What a role model, truly inspirational.”
Wyn Clayton
Mel Steventon Nadir Khan (+ Tom McNally not pictured) Gilly McArthur, Fay Preene & Winny Poaty Wonderful Wild Women
Run & Hike The Length Of Nepal Adventure Sport Photography
“Thanks for letting us be part of Kendal Mountain
Festival. We had a great morning. For us it was
great to see how vocal Skye got on her Yeti Dog
Bed with her toy!”
John Leadbetter
Harrison Ward Fell Foodie
“Brilliant talk Lauren!
It was lovely to hear you speak honestly and humbly
“Treating ourselves to an early morning #kendal20
about your mental and physical challenges.”
@YETICoolers film with the @FellFoodie
Nicky Woods
really interesting chat, such a grounded nice guy.”
Adrian Nelhams Eric Hope Dianne Draper
International School Of Mountaineering Cumbrian Angler & Environmentalist
@kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 27
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

“I’ve been hugely impressed at

BRAND
the ability of the Kendal team
to pivot again and again and

ENGAGEMENT
remain positive in the face of such
uncertainty this year. You and the
whole team should give yourselves a
huge pat on the back.” ‘Kendal’ represents the UK’s premier opportunity for brands to
Elle Whitelegg YETI engage with thousands of like-minded souls; savvy people who
are passionate about all things outdoors-related.
This year’s Festival was unable to deliver its usual on-the-ground experience,
but this was more than compensated for by the hugely increased online
audience, giving brand partners extended visibility both across UK
consumers and internationally; the Festival was viewed in over 80 countries
worldwide. The ultra-popular Basecamp was replaced by the creation
of a new virtual space where our partners were able to curate their own
“Well done for the Women In digital experience for Festival-goers with film, interviews, product news and
competitions. With nearly 50,000 hours of films and events viewed, brands
Adventure evening, the session
partnering with us on film categories or specialist sessions gained prime
seemed to be really well received, visibility in front of a committed audience that were able to access content
so thank you so much for your hard for six weeks, rather than the usual four days of the Festival.
work to deliver this.”
Cathy Sandelands Berghaus

“I think the Kendal team “Please accept my

have done a remarkable gratitude for this year’s
job of retaining the spirit festival – brilliant, easy
of the festival whilst to view, grand diversity,
broadening the event’s genuinely involving.”
footprint!” Frank Bennett
Matt Hickman Lyon Equipment
Montane

“It’s been
impressive
what you’ve
managed to pull
off in these tricky
circumstances.
I’ve managed to
catch quite a few “A huge success! Great
of the films and to hear how the
some of the live platform has created
sessions and I’ve new audiences across a
been seeing lots number of countries.”
of chatter online “Congratulations on this year’s KMF! Quite a different Elena Fletcher
about the event.” experience but also enlightening” Merrell
Andy Laycock Lisa Patagonia
Pertex

28 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 29
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

10K TRAIL RUN

Despite not being able to hold our annual 10K run in the heart of
Kendal as normal, this didn’t stop us. We teamed up with adidas
Terrex, Maverick Race and Results Base to create a global virtual
10K run, for anyone, anywhere, for free.
We exceeded previous registrations with 1,259 runners all across the
UK, Europe, South Africa, Singapore, Japan and New Zealand. We
welcomed novice runners and training athletes together, in the same
virtual space. The online engagement from individuals supporting each
other was overwhelmingly positive and we can safely say this year has
shown us an alternative and exciting route for the Kendal 10K.

30 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 31
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

“This is my 20th Festival and I have to say that

@kendalmountain
the selection of films this year is the best ever!”
we’re ready!
Jim Tattersall
Trying to
decide what to
watch tonight?
#Kendal20.”
@Kerrysr1

“I enjoyed every minute of your so

expertly curated content and all
the wonderful filmmakers, speakers,
adventurers and nature-lovers
telling their stories. I feel well and
truly nurtured, especially in this
craziest of years!.”
“Many thanks for such a brilliant
Katrin Blake
online festival. Your films filled
the dark evenings of November
and December with such an
excellent programme. I think I
experienced every emotion : awe,
astonishment, fear, laughter... ”
Derran Sewell

“The inclusion topics on

Kendal across the board
has been great this year.
Lots of voices have been “I’ve enjoyed being in Kendal in previous
given the platform to get years but actually via my full pass I’ve seen
their struggles across.” much more. The films books and talks have
Andrew Dobb lifted my spirits and inspired me. I think you
have really made a step change re: diversity
- the debate taught me a lot - thank you.”
Anon
KENDAL INSPIRES
This year more than ever, people needed
inspiration and the chance to connect with
others. With our widest-ever programme of
films and events, plus the opportunity to view
them anytime, anywhere over a six-week
period, we were able to deliver an extended
dose of psyche!

32
32 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 33
 KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

KENDAL MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL TOUR KENDAL‘S 40TH ANNIVERSARY 1980 – 2020

THE 2020 TOUR
The year started well with packed audiences at venues
all around the UK. Before the pandemic placed a hold on
proceedings we managed to visit Whitley Bay, Harrogate,
Caernarfon, Llanelli, Cardiff, London, Maidenhead,
Southampton and Manchester.
The wonderful mix of engaging guest speakers and a uniquely
curated film programme enables us to carry the spirit of Kendal to
new audiences as well as to our growing group of Festival friends.
We did continue the Tour to several venues in the digital medium
with a sun-filled filmed introduction from presenters Steve Scott
and Claire Carter. They skilfully set the scene in front of their
favourite backdrop of Blea Tarn from our home in the Lake District.
Ironic, isn’t it. In our 40th year, just when we should
have been celebrating our major anniversary, Kendal
Mountain Festival faced its biggest challenge yet.
However, like the founders of the event – seasoned
expedition climbers one and all – we decided to ride out
the storm and choose a different route.
‘Kendal’ has become the world’s biggest Mountain Festival by
programme and participation, and we are determined to see
it continue to build, bringing together like-minded souls and
providing a source of inspiration. Maybe in 40 years’ time, 2020
will be seen as the year when Kendal pivoted into a new, wider
world – and you can say you were part of it.

THE 2021 TOUR

They say out of hardship comes opportunity and with the
Tour abruptly stalled in 2020 we have adapted quickly to
create a superb working option of the best films (four different

KENDAL’S DIGITAL PLATFORM

programmes) and guest speakers, all lined up for our big return
in 2021.
Our Tour model will be flexible enough to adapt to the
progressive opening of venues and will feature a creative and The events of 2020 have accelerated the trend towards people
diverse programme, super prizes to win from our brand partners consuming more content online; in fact for many people it’s provided
and films you will adore from the largest collection of any
a lifeline, both for distraction and inspiration. With the proliferation
adventure film festival in the world.
of content available, it’s become clear that quality is key, with
audiences valuing original well-curated material.

2021 TOUR DATES
BRISTOL 21 APRIL
BIRMINGHAM 7 MAY
GLASGOW 12 MAY
BANCHORY 13 MAY
INVERNESS 14 MAY
EXETER 20 MAY
SHEFFIELD 21 MAY
WHITLEY BAY 29 MAY
COVENTRY 2 JUNE
LINCOLN 3 JUNE
KINGS LYNN 4 JUNE
We have been working for some months now on the concept of a year-round
Kendal Mountain Festival digital platform; with lockdown impacting on both our
audience and the outdoor and cultural sectors, we feel it is appropriate to our
KENDAL 18 JUNE
values of nurturing community, and ‘sharing the adventure’ to now accelerate
MANCHESTER 1 JULY this project. In the coming weeks we will be sharing more detail, however for now
CHESTER 2 JULY we want to highlight two objectives in particular; we are committed to building
a platform that supports adventure filmmakers, and one that offers unique
CAERNARFON 3 JULY opportunities for partner organisations. Watch this space!
OXFORD 8 JULY
LONDON, DALTON 9 JULY
“I enjoyed every minute of your so expertly curated content
MAIDENHEAD 14 JULY and all the wonderful filmmakers, speakers, adventurers
LONDON,HACKNEY 15 JULY and nature-lovers telling their stories. may I ask if you are
CANTERBURY 16 JULY planning on offering more online content during the year? I
LLANELLI TBC am sure your fans, me included, would be up for it… ;-)”
CARDIFF TBC Katrin Blake

BATH 16 JUNE NOTTINGHAM TBC

Our Irish Tour dates to be announced soon

34 @kendalmountainfestival @kendalmountainfestival 35
 WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR
2020 FESTIVAL PARTNERS

MAJOR PARTNERS

PARTNERS

SUPPORT PARTNERS

SUPPORTERS

FUNDERS MEDIA PARTNERS

CHARITY PARTNERSHIPS

For new partnership opportunities with Kendal Mountain Events,

please contact:
Steve Scott: steve@mountainfest.co.uk Clive Allen: clive@mountainfest.co.uk