Two Cumbrian tourist attractions have taken top honours at a major awards ceremony.

Ullswater ‘Steamers’ and Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway won the accolades at the British Coach Tourism Awards, among the tourism sector’s most sought-after accolades.

Ullswater ‘Steamers’ won the River and Inland Cruise Operator category, while its sister attraction, Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, won the Heritage Railway category.

They are part of the Lake District Estates portfolio, a family owned organisation with heritage and preservation at the heart of the business.

Both attractions create experiences tailored for group travel and the firm said it was committed to welcoming coach groups.

Mark Horton, general manager of Ullswater ‘Steamers', said: "There was strong competition in this category so we are delighted that the investment we’ve put into improving our piers and facilities for groups at Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has been recognised with this award. Groups are an important part of our business and our team works hard to provide excellent service on a daily basis."

Rachel Bell, head of marketing and development at Lake District Estates, added: "We are thrilled that both our heritage visitor attractions, won.

"It is testament to the continued investment in our heritage attractions by the board, the dedication of our employees and focus to continually improve, enhance and update our product offering.”