TWO tourism businesses are finalists in VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence 2016.

Castlerigg Hall Caravan and Camping Park in Keswick – a winner in last year’s Cumbria Tourism awards – has made the final five nationally in the holiday park/holiday village of the year category.

Fellow Cumbria Tourism member, the Sun Inn in Kirkby Lonsdale, has been shortlisted in the new dog friendly business of the year category.

Winners will be revealed on March 8 at a ceremony at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, during English Tourism Week.

As finalists, both Castlerigg Hall and the Sun Inn will be given either a Gold, Silver, Bronze or Highly Commended Award by the judging panel.

There will be further Cumbrian interest on the night, as Windermere Lake Cruises boatman Rob Beale is one of 11 holiday heroes bidding to become VisitEngland’s ‘Tourism Superstar’.

The special award is chosen by a public vote, with voting still open to #VoteCumbriaRob until the end of February.

David Jackson, owner of Castlerigg Hall Caravan and Camping Park, said: “We are delighted.

“The team at Castlerigg Hall works hard to offer the best experience possible for our visitors and it is fantastic to be recognised at this level.”