THE Gilpin Hotel & Lake House near Windermere has won a special award from VisitEngland for its warm welcome.

The hotel is one of only 16 hotels nationally – and the only one in Cumbria – to be given an inaugural ROSE Award, following the National Tourist Board’s annual quality assessment visit and online customer reviews.

Barney Cunliffe, MD of Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, said: “We are honoured and delighted to win this new award, particularly as it celebrates the ‘warmest of welcomes’, which is at the heart of hospitality. Huge thanks to our fabulous Gilpin team, who go the extra mile every day.”

VisitEngland’s Chief Executive James Berresford said: “Our new ROSE awards focus on areas of excellence that all businesses can aspire to, aiming to provide inspiration to all. Celebrating those who go that extra mile by raising standards, they will no doubt encourage others to raise their game.”