An award-winning aparthotel in Carlisle has been recognised by the national tourist board with its highest accolade.
The Halston Aparthotel has received a 5-star rating from VisitEngland, making the city-centre venue Cumbria’s first Serviced Apartment provider of this standard.
VisitEngland’s five-star rating is given to accommodation providers which excel in all areas of hospitality and customer service.
The Halston has been open for only three years, but has already made a major impact on the hospitality and tourism industry in Carlisle. This year it was named Self-Catering Provider of the Year at the 2017 Cumbria Tourism awards and achieved Superior status by Quality Cumbria assessors.
2017 has also seen major investment into The Halston, with The Halston Townhouses opening in July. The six townhouse apartments are situated 50 yards from the aparthotel and offer one and two bed apartments. Autumn will also see the opening of a new restaurant and lounge, Penny Blue, in addition to Bartons Yard their already popular, on-site bistro.
There are also plans for an extension to the main, former post office building. On the site of the old Lonsdale Cinema, the team at The Halston have plans for 18 brand-new rooms, a new reception and an elevated glass walkway between the future and existing buildings.
Co-Owner of The Halston, Dominique Harrison says, “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 adds, “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.”