One of Cumbria's landmark hotels has been given the highest accolade possible by England's tourist agency.

The Halston Aparthotel in Warwick Road, Carlisle, has been given a five star rating by VisitEngland.

It is the first serviced apartment business in the county to receive this accolade, given to accommodation operators judged to have provided excellent hospitality and customer service.

This is the latest in a series of achievements for the business, which was named self-catering provider of the year at the 2017 Cumbria Tourism awards and achieved 'superior' status by assessor from Quality Cumbria, which monitors accommodation standards for visitors in the count.

The Halston first opened its doors in 2014 and has become one of the city’s most popular venues.

Last year plans for a five-storey extension beside the building were approved by Carlisle City Council with the aim of construction this year.

Autumn will also see the opening of a new restaurant and lounge, Penny Blue, in addition to the existing bistro Bartons Yard.

Co-owner of The Halston, Dominique Harrison said: “Five-star status is a tremendous accolade for the The Halston and we are delighted to have been recognised by VisitEngland.

"This wouldn’t have been possible without the continued passion and dedication of our staff. In only three years it’s been amazing to see the business grow and evolve year on year.”

Managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Jim Walker added: “It is so good to see The Halston’s dedication and investment being rewarded with five-star status by VisitEngland. This is great news not only for The Halston as a business, but also for the city of Carlisle and the tourism industry in Cumbria as a whole.

“It is essential that businesses continue to innovate and raise standards to stay competitive and not only meet but exceed customer expectations; The Halston is a prime example of this.”

The Halston is also the venue of the inaugural in-cumbria Business Awards which will be presented by the BBC’s media editor - and former Independent editor - Amol Rajan. These take place on November 9.