Charles Graves, Director of Lake District Hotels has recently been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the University of Cumbria for his outstanding services to leisure, tourism and hospitality.

Charles left accountancy when he was 23 to join the leisure business back in the 1970’s, running bingo halls and cinemas in West Cumbria alongside his late father, Robert. In 1977 they purchased Armathwaite Hall Country House Hotel in Bassenthwaite, and after meeting his wife Kit in the early 80’s they continued to expand the business, having just bought the 8th hotel in April this year.

The University of Cumbria recognised Charles’ contribution to the industry by inviting him to accept the Honorary Fellowship award on Wednesday 26th November at a graduation ceremony which took place at Carlisle Cathedral. Sitting alongside the Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu, Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Strike and University Executive Dr Steve Curl, Charles addressed the audience of graduating students and their friends and family with a motivating speech about life in business.

Charles said of the occasion, “I am very flattered to have been awarded the title of honorary fellowship and hope that I can inspire others to join the hospitality and leisure industry in Cumbria. We are always encouraging local Cumbrian’s to remain in the county and use their skills within our industry, so it is great to see so many talented people graduating from the University of Cumbria who will be looking to take their careers to the next level.”

Photo: Charles Graves (Centre) with Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu (left) and Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Strike (right)