Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities

We aim to meet the needs of all of our residents and to ensure fair and equal treatment for all Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people who visit the city.

Our Unauthorised Encampment Policy outlines the council's acceptance approach to unauthorised encampment, which respects and protects the traditional and nomadic way of life of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, while balancing this with the interests of settled communities. The policy highlights how our approach of acceptance supports those of a nomadic lifestyle to stay on an Unauthorised Encampment for a period of time, providing that the location is suitable.

Our Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Welcome Pack provides information, advice and guidance to travelling communities who visit and stay in the city.

There are currently no permanent Gypsy, Roma and Traveller sites or temporary stop over areas in the city.

If you'd like to report a traveller encampment, you can do this by completing the report a traveller encampment online form.

June is Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month

Every June since 2008, people from across the UK have celebrated Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month (GRTHM).

Through celebration, education and raising awareness, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month helps to tackle prejudice, change the story, and amplify the voices of Gypsies, Roma and Travellers in wider society.

The theme for 2025 is 'Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Heroes' Month: Who inspires you?'

Appleby Horse Fair 2025

Appleby Horse Fair is taking place this year from Thursday 5 June to Wednesday 11 June (with the main days being Thursday 5, Friday 6, Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 June).

The Fair is an annual gathering of Gypsies and Travellers in the town of Appleby in Westmorland. It is unique in Europe and, as well as attracting around 10,000 Gypsies and Travellers, over 30,000 other visitors attend the Fair.