At Lake District Hotels, our people are at the heart of everything we do — from creating unforgettable guest experiences to bringing warmth and personality to every corner of our hotels. That’s why the Employee Appreciation Awards are one of the most meaningful events in our annual calendar.
This year’s ceremony was a wonderfully uplifting occasion, bringing colleagues together at the beautiful Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa. Festivities began with a drinks reception, giving everyone the chance to catch up and celebrate the remarkable achievements of their peers. We then moved on to the main ceremony, where Director Daniella Hope, Operational Director Gwyn Jones, and HR Manager Maria Boyd proudly presented awards to team members in recognition of their outstanding efforts and dedication.
“Our Employee Appreciation Awards were a fantastic opportunity to celebrate 48 outstanding team members for their hard work and achievements. In the evening, everyone came back together for Music Bingo—a relaxed, fun-filled (with quite a bit of competitive spirit) night that rounded off the celebrations perfectly!” shares Maria, our HR Manager.
Educational Milestones
At Lake District Hotels, we believe continuous learning is essential to personal and professional development, especially in a fast-moving industry like hospitality, which is why we’re proud to celebrate team members who have gone above and beyond to expand their skills and knowledge.
These colleagues have not only excelled in their day-to-day roles but have also dedicated themselves to further training, qualifications, and personal growth. From earning new certifications to mastering advanced techniques, they truly embody our commitment to development across the business. Their achievements strengthen our team, elevate the service we provide, and inspire others to pursue their own learning journeys.
We are delighted to recognise those who have shown exceptional dedication to advancing their careers and enhancing their expertise:
- Andreas, Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa: WSET level 2 an intermediate Globally recognised wine qualification (Wines & Spirits Education Trust)
- Nicola, Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa: WSET level 2 an intermediate Globally recognised wine qualification (Wines & Spirits Education Trust)
- Lorna, Kings Arms: WSET level 2 an intermediate Globally recognised wine qualification (Wines & Spirits Education Trust)
Long Service Awards
We greatly appreciate the loyalty of our long-serving team members and are truly grateful for the dedication they’ve shown throughout their careers with us. Their commitment is never taken for granted, and we thank each of them for their hard work and passion. We are truly thankful for everything they bring to our hotels and wish each of them continued success and happiness in the years ahead.
- Gary, 25 years at Inn on the Lake.
- Joanne, 25 years at Head Office.
- Maria, 25 years with Lake District Hotels.
- Ference-Barna, 10 years at Inn on the Lake.
- Lorant, 10 years at Inn on the Lake.
- Beverly, 10 years at Head Office.
- Adrian, 10 years at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Glen, 10 years at Inn on the Lake.
Internal Promotions
We are proud not only to recognise but truly celebrate the outstanding talent and dedication within our team — and this year, there is so much to celebrate. These accomplishments highlight a culture where loyalty, hard work, and ambition are valued and rewarded. By promoting from within, we continue to create opportunities for those who play a vital role in our success. This year’s deserving winners are:
- Andre, promoted to Deputy General Manager at Borrowdale Hotel.
- Nicola, promoted to Trainee Duty Manager at Borrowdale Hotel.
- Emma, promoted to Sales Manager at Inn on the Lake.
- Tereza, promoted to Reception Supervisor at Inn on the Lake.
- Suzanne, promoted to HR & Duty Manager at Inn on the Lake.
- Bobby, promoted to Housekeeping Manager at Inn on the Lake.
- Maddie, promoted to Assistant Deputy General Manager at Inn on the Lake.
- Petr, promoted to Deputy General Manager Inn on the Lake.
- Maxford, promoted to Sous Chef at Inn on the Lake.
- Christopher was promoted to Bar Manager the Inn on the Square.
- Iain, promoted to Deputy General Manager Inn on the Square.
- Kimberlee, promoted to Housekeeping Supervisor at Inn on the Square.
- Samantha, promoted to Deputy General Manager at the Kings Arms.
- Krystiana, promoted to Duty Manager at the Kings Arms.
- George, promoted to Assistant Restaurant Manager at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Nora, promoted to Restaurant Manager at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Cerise, promoted to Restaurant Supervisor at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Ana, promoted to Duty Manager at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Andrea, promoted to Spa Bar Duty Manager at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Lauren, promoted to Spa Reception Manager Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Danny, promoted to Bar Supervisor at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Marc, promoted to Sous Chef at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Justin, promoted to Group Chef at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Susana, promoted to Assistant Reception Manager at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Florentin, promoted to Porter Supervisor at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa.
- Natasha, promoted to Trainee Duty Manager Skiddaw Hotel.
- Rhyan, promoted to Receptionist at Skiddaw Hotel.
'The Extra Mile' Award
We’d also like to extend a huge congratulations to James, our Head of Marketing, for winning this year’s ‘The Extra Mile Award’.
James has shown remarkable commitment since joining Lake District Hotels in 2011. He’s always happy to support colleagues — whether that means helping with IT or stepping in wherever he’s needed — consistently going above and beyond his role. His positivity and dependable support make a real difference across the business, and we’re so fortunate to have him as part of the Head Office team. Well deserved, James!
'Employee of the Year' Award
Jason, an invaluable member of our kitchen team at the Skiddaw Hotel, was named the winner of our ‘Employee of the Year Award‘.
Known for his exceptional reliability, Jason plays a key role in the smooth running of the kitchen. From managing stock to coordinating the team with care, he helps ensure every service runs seamlessly. His dedication contributes directly to delivering the best possible dining experience for our guests, and we are delighted to recognise the important part he plays in our team. Congratulations Jason!
Thank you for joining us in honouring this year’s winners and celebrating the spirit of hospitality that defines Lake District Hotels.
It has been a pleasure to recognise the individuals who go above and beyond to create exceptional experiences for our guests and support one another behind the scenes. Here’s to the year ahead — and all our fantastic colleagues.
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