Ullswater Steamers has been declared officially the best attraction of its kind in the world.
The family-run company beat off competition from cruise companies from around the globe, to claim a World Responsible Tourism Award.
Professor Harold Goodwin, Chair of the judging panel, said: ‘’Since 2011 Ullswater Steamers have been monitoring their performance in reducing water and carbon emissions, working with other local public transport providers and the Lake District National Park, to encourage people out of cars.
‘’They excel at work in the local community and have become an important local employer. Ullswater Steamers were highly commended in these Awards in 2008 and 2011, and with their Gold win today the judges recognise how much progress it is possible to make by adopting a strategy of continuous improvement in sustainability and keeping at it – and the judges feel they provide a real example which other cruise operators need to follow.’’
Rachel Bell from Ullswater Steamers added: ‘’All of us at Ullswater Steamers are dedicated to maintaining the beauty of what we believe is the most stunning lake in the region. As a company we do our utmost to minimise the impact of our business on the lake and its surroundings. We are proud to be involved in a huge range of environmental projects, transport initiatives and green business initiatives.
"Over the years we have put in a huge range of measures to ensure we maintain this landscape both for the present and way into the future. We are immensely proud of what we do and of the place in which we work - it really is the place to be."