Kendal Calling: Teenage girl dies after 'medical episode' at popular festival

A 17-year-old girl has died following a medical episode at a popular festival in the North.

The incident happened in the early hours of this morning (Aug 2) at Kendal Calling , which is held at Lowther Castle near Penrith, in Cumbria.

Police said they were called by the ambulance service, and the teen was pronounced dead at the scene despite the best efforts of paramedics.

A group of women also tried to help the girl after becoming concerned for her welfare.

A statement released by the festival organisers said: “The team at Kendal Calling are deeply saddened by the passing of a festival attendee in the early hours of Sunday morning following a medical episode.

“As soon as the individual became unwell, they were immediately attended to by our on-site security and medical teams. Paramedics and medical personnel provided emergency care at the scene and did everything they could to help.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the individual's family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. We are supporting the relevant authorities and will continue to assist them with their investigation.”

A statement from Cumbria Police said: “Emergency services were called to the Kendal Calling festival site at 2.13am this morning (Aug 2), following reports of a teenage girl suffering a medical episode.

“Officers and colleagues from the North West Ambulance Service attended. Despite the best efforts of emergency responders, including the administration of CPR, a 17-year-old girl was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.

“Her family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time. Enquiries into the circumstances surrounding her death are ongoing.

“Officers are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area of the ‘Calling Out’ tent and the ‘Big Wheel’ within the Kendal Calling site at around 2.00am (Aug 2) or anyone who has any information that may assist officers with their enquiries.

“Officers are particularly keen to speak with a group of women who alerted first responders to the girl after becoming concerned for her welfare.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police online here or by calling 101, quoting incident number 26 of Aug 2, 2026.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.