Interpreting Engine Lonning

The commission offers an exciting and unique opportunity for an experienced Lead Artist / Principal Contractor to design, develop and deliver a creative interpretation trail for the Engine Lonning Nature Reserve in Carlisle - working with schools, young people and local residents to co-create a number of eye-catching interpretive seating and art installations. 

The installations will form part of a new Accessible Trail, telling the story of Engine Lonning - helping people learn about the reserve’s Roman, industrial and natural history and will use locally reclaimed materials wherever possible – being sympathetic to the wild feeling nature of the site as it is today.  

You will be working alongside the community and landowner, Cumberland Council (who will be installing a new accessible path) to create rest places, signage and interpretation that will celebrate the natural, railway and Roman heritage of the site. 

There will also be a series of activities and celebratory events for families, young people and the local community to introduce, improve, enjoy and learn about the site with resources and information online too. Earlier this year we were delighted to meet so many people at our Engine Lonning drop in events with many stopping by to share their memories of the engine yard. 

Our Discovery Day in the summer celebrated the Lonning’s rich natural and cultural heritage from Romans to railways. A shout out to every mosaic maker, stone carver, train yard tour taker, balsam basher, wild woodland explorer and Roman rabble rouser who made the event such a success. 

We are now inviting tenders for this commission. Please read the supporting documents below and note deadline for submission 9am Monday 5th January 2026. 

More information about the Access to Eden: Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges Project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.