STAFF at a historic hall are celebrating after scooping a tightly-fought title at Cumbria's swanky tourism awards.

Askham Hall, near Penrith, bagged the prestigious Taste Cumbria Award which goes to the best 'taste experience' combining creative use of local produce, first-class customer service and a commitment to having a positive effect on the environment.

Owned by the Lowther family since the 1800s, the 13th century hotel and eatery opened its doors last year.

The restaurant is headed up by Cumbrian-born head chef, Richard Swale, who has previously worked with the equally renowned John Burton Race and Anthony Demetre.

“It is fantastic to given this award, just over 12 months after we fully opened Askham Hall," said owner Charles Lowther. "Having grown up at Askham, it really is close to my heart and its restoration was the culmination of six years of hard work.

"The whole team is genuinely excited to have been recognised for our high-quality food, service and unpretentious style.”

The menus are prepared using an abundance of fresh produce from the hall’s extensive kitchen garden, vegetable gardens and orchards.

And with a passion for livestock, Mr Lowther even keeps a herd of pedigree beef shorthorn cattle, rare breed pigs, meat goats, sheep, ducks and chickens.

Head chef Richard Swale said: “We as a team at Askham Hall are thrilled to have won this prestigious award. The competition has been tough, reflecting the incredibly high standard of food and restaurants in Cumbria.”

The team also includes consultant chef Steven Doherty - the UK's first ever chef to head up a British three-starred Michelin restaurant – and ‘Maître de Maison’ Nico Chièze.