Tourism businesses from across the county are once again stepping into the spotlight, as the finalists for the Cumbria Tourism Awards 2025 are officially revealed.
This year’s prestigious awards shine a light on the trailblazing tourism and hospitality operators who continue to go above and beyond to deliver world-class visitor experiences, and make Cumbria one of the most admired destinations in the UK.
Spanning 16 categories, the awards recognise the full diversity of the visitor economy, from accommodation and attractions to food, drink, transport and individual achievement. This year’s shortlist showcases the exceptional talent, creativity and dedication driving Cumbria’s tourism sector forward.
Congratulations to our 2025 finalists:
Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award
Sponsored by Cumberland Council
- The Dock Museum, Barrow-in-Furness
- Bendrigg, Kendal
- Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
B&B and Guest House of the Year
Sponsored by Harrison Drury
- Lindeth Fell Country House, Bowness-on-Windermere
- Sunnyside Guest House, Keswick
- Wheatlands Lodge – Windermere
Camping, Glamping & Holiday Park of the Year
Sponsored by Burnetts
- Solway Holiday Park, Silloth
- Park Cliffe, Windermere
- The Quiet Site, Ullswater
- Ullswater Heights Holiday Home and Lodge Park, Penrith
Experience of the Year
Sponsored by Reeds
- Shed One Distillery, Ulverston – Make Your Own Distilled Spirit
- Cliffhanger Escape Rooms, Backbarrow – Bank Diamond Heist
- Pure Lakes Skincare, Far Sawrey – Soap Making Masterclass
- Honister Slate Mine – Guided Mine Tours
Regenerative Tourism Award
Sponsored by Westmorland and Furness Council
- Castlerigg Hall Caravan Camping Glamping, Keswick
- The Cottage in the Wood, Whinlatter
- Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire
Large Hotel of the Year
Sponsored by Christie & Co
- The Swan Hotel & Spa, Newby Bridge
- Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, Windermere
- Another Place, The Lake, Ullswater
Large Visitor Attraction of the Year
Sponsored by Dodd & Co
- Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway
- Muncaster Castle, Gardens and Hawk & Owl Centre
- Honister Slate Mine
Pub of the Year
Sponsored by Napthens
- Queens Head Troutbeck
- The Brackenrigg Inn, Ullswater
- The Royal at Dockray
Makers and Producers Award
Sponsored by The Cumberland
- Pennington’s Tea and Coffee Ltd, Kendal
- CoolCrafting, Kendal
- Pure Lakes Skincare, Far Sawrey
New Tourism Business Award
Sponsored by Thomson Hayton Winkley
- Grange Bridge Cottage, Borrowdale
- E-Bike Safaris Ltd, Kendal
Small Hotel of the Year
Sponsored by Colliers
- Langdale Chase, Windermere
- Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant, Carlisle
- Willowbeck Lodge, Carlisle
Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year
Sponsorship opportunity available
- Dufton Barn Holidays, Appleby-in-Westmorland
- Fair Rigg by Cradel Haus, Windermere
- Netherby Hall, Carlisle
Small Visitor Attraction of the Year
Sponsored by Lake District National Park
- The Ruskin Museum, Coniston
- Mirehouse and Gardens, Keswick
- Quaker Tapestry Museum, Kendal
Taste of Cumbria – Fine Dining Award
Sponsored by Lamont Pridmore
- SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel, Windermere
- Storrs Hall Hotel, Bowness-on-Windermere
- Pentonbridge Inn, Carlisle
- The Cottage In The Wood, Whinlatter
Taste of Cumbria – Casual Dining Award
Sponsorship opportunity available
- Sunset Café Silecroft Beach
- Bassenthwaite Lake Station
- Force Walkers Café & Terrace, Ambleside
The Sheila Hensman Unsung Hero Award
- Peter Hill, Cumbrian Heavy Horses, Nr Millom
- Claire Winter-Moore, Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway
- Margaret Craig, Embleton Spa Hotel
- Judith Talbot, The Melbreak Hotel
Wedding Venue of the Year
Sponsored by H&H Insurance Brokers
- Askham Hall and Bank Barn, Nr Penrith
- Hidden River Barn, Longtown
- Storrs Hall Hotel, Bowness-on-Windermere
- Eden Barn Ltd, Kirkby Stephen
Each finalist will now take part in the next stage of judging, which includes a detailed review process and, in many cases, a series of mystery shopping visits. The winners will be crowned during a VIP celebration evening on Tuesday 8 July 2025 at the Castle Green Hotel, Kendal, held in association with headline sponsor Electricity North West.
Eligible winners will also go on to represent Cumbria at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, offering a unique platform to gain recognition on the national stage.
Gill Haigh, Managing Director of Cumbria Tourism, says:
“The calibre of this year’s finalists is truly exceptional. These businesses and individuals represent the very best of Cumbria’s world-renowned visitor economy, with each one showcasing excellence, dedication and a deep commitment to delivering amazing experiences.
“We’re delighted to be able to champion their achievements and give them the recognition they deserve. The judging panel has some tough decisions ahead, and we can’t wait to bring everyone together in July for what promises to be a fantastic celebration.”
The Cumbria Tourism Awards 2025 are organised by Cumbria Tourism and made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, including headline sponsor Electricity North West, category sponsors, and partners supporting the event itself, including Lawson Design, the Castle Green Hotel and drinks reception sponsor, Virgin Experience Days.
For more information visit: www.cumbriatourism.org/awards