A Penrith hotel has been named as Cumbria's Large Hotel of the Year.
The North Lakes Hotel and Spa, a four-star establishment, came out on top at the Cumbria Tourism Awards 2024, held as part of the 50th anniversary programme of Cumbria Tourism.
The awards are an annual gathering honouring the cream of the crop amongst the region's hoteliers, restaurants, visitor attractions, and businesses that draw tourists.
The ceremony, which had an Oscars theme, welcomed various businesses across Cumbria for a drinks reception and a three-course meal.
The North Lakes Hotel and Spa, a property under the umbrella of hospitality group Daniel Thwaites, emerged as the winner following a thorough entry process.
This included a surprise inspection from a mystery shopper, during which the hotel demonstrated skills and qualities that evidently impressed the judges.
With this victory, the hotel will now be Cumbria's representative for the national award at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence in 2025.
This award is a testament to the hotel's dedication to top-tier service and its distinction amongst the numerous hotels in the region.
Jose Gomez, general manager at North Lakes Hotel and Spa, expressed his delight over the award.
He said: "We are absolutely delighted to have been recognised as Cumbria Tourism’s Large Hotel of the Year, especially with the region boasting an abundance of exceptional hotels and we’d like to dedicate this award to our brilliant team and guests who have continued to support us over the years."
Mr Gomez also highlighted the importance of understanding guests’ needs and offering them extra touches.
Mr Gomez said: "Being in such a prime location, and with so many Cumbrian attractions on our doorstep, we take the time to understand our guests’ needs, which is why we’re always looking to add those extra touches to our range of amenities - whether they’re staying for a mid-week break or simply dining at Cumbria’s only open fire grill restaurant, FYR, we’re dedicated to going that extra mile for our customers." North Lakes Hotel and Spa, conveniently located near the motorway, boasts 84 modern bedrooms, a luxury spa, and the AA Rosette-awarded FYR restaurant.
The hotel's design mirrors the rugged beauty of the Cumbrian landscape, with local stone, natural wood, and open log fires creating a genuine 'away from it all' environment.
Guests can relax in the tranquil spa, which offers soothing treatment rooms, a sauna, and a full-sized swimming pool, before enjoying a home-cooked dinner made with fresh, local ingredients.
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