Three Lake District venues, plus a hotel operator in the area, have been named in a prestigious hospitality power list for the North.
The Kuits NRB Top Fifty Hospitality Power List, now in its 12th year, was unveiled this week at the opening of the annual Northern Restaurant and Bar (NRB) trade show in Manchester.
The esteemed list celebrates the top-performing and most influential hospitality operators across the North who have achieved exceptional commercial success and critical acclaim over the past year.
The Old Stamp House and The Schelly, in Ambleside, the Gilpin Hotel and Lake House at Windermere and the North East-based Inn Collection Group were featured on the list.
Each year the list is judged by a panel of hospitality experts from across the north of England, who undertake a rigorous research and selection process to ensure finalists represent the very best operators in the highly competitive northern hospitality scene.
The culmination of this process reveals a final list that recognises the hospitality operators who have each demonstrated growth and resilience in the last year.
Craig Blackburn, co-owner of The Old Stamp House and The Schelly, said: “Ryan and I are always surprised when we receive any form of acknowledgement.
“We both continually do the very best we can to improve what we do by developing and learning – there is always something new to explore, and we both actively look for the opportunities they invariably present.
“It’s undeniable that the industry has faced significant challenges and continues to do so. However, this award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who are on this journey with us. Congratulations to everyone featured in this year’s list- businesses that are doing things right and helping to firmly establish the north on the hospitality map.”
Siobhan Thompson, event manager for NRB25, said: “The 2025 edition highlights operators who have not only demonstrated resilience and creativity but have also driven innovation and excellence within the sector.
“From trailblazing independents to industry giants, each business on this list plays a vital role in shaping the North’s thriving hospitality scene. We look forward to seeing how they continue to evolve and inspire over the coming year.”
Gilpin Hotel and Lake House was recently named the best place to stay in the North West.
The Inn Collection Group operates The Wateredge Inn, the Temperance Inn, the Waterhead Inn and The Ambleside Inn in Ambleside, the Angel Inn in Bowness, The Coniston Inn, The Swan at Grasmere and is currently revamping the Wordsworth Hotel in Grasmere.
