A family-owned business has won a prestigious award.

The Longlands Inn & Restaurant at Tewitfield is one of a three businesses in North Lancashire to receive this year's esteemed ROSE Award from national tourism organisation, VisitEngland.

The other two businesses were QSF in Lancaster and The Pele Tower in Carnforth.

Over the past two years, owners of Longlands Inn & Restaurant, Barry Robinson and his daughter Fiona, have invested over £500,000 in the popular canalside venue.

Fiona said: “The extensive redesign and renovation of The Longlands has exceeded all our expectations and led to a whole new audience of visitors discovering our special inn, rooms, and cottages.

The Westmorland Gazette:

"We’ve upped our number of covers, which during our busiest periods this year has even seen the kitchen team deliver as many as 150 meals every night.

"There are so many great achievements to acknowledge over the last two years, however, we’re always most proud of the fact that our personal touch, attention to detail, and consistently high levels of service have continued to flourish.

“We’ve said it before, but The Longlands is the vibrant hub of the marina and canal complex and our relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service attracts customers and keeps them coming back time and time again.

"To also then have that underpinned by this fantastic national award really is very special and a credit to every single member of our hard-working team.”

The Westmorland Gazette: Longlands new bespoke bar websize

Created to champion the country's top-tier customer service providers, the ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards are granted annually to a select number of accommodation establishments.

Winners are nominated by VisitEngland’s quality scheme assessors, chosen from positive feedback received by overseas and domestic visitors.

A final judging panel hunts for innovative elements that differentiate the business, including special facilities or services offered to make customers' stay remarkable.

Nadine Thomson, VisitEngland Advisory Board Member, added: “The ROSE Awards celebrate and champion the accommodation businesses across England who go above and beyond in their customer service.

“There truly is a place to stay to suit all tastes and budgets in England and these awards also highlight the exceptional variety on offer.

"From our wonderful English inns and pubs with rooms to glamping, camping, and farm-stays in beautiful countryside and coastal locations."