From longstanding family hospitality to pioneering wellness initiatives and innovation in funeral services and admin support, the 2025 Cumbria Business Awards have brought regional excellence into focus. This year’s winners reflect a deep commitment to their industries and local communities, representing the drive, creativity and resilience that define Cumbrian business.
Our 2025 Cumbria Business Award Winners
Crossbank Dental Care secured the award for Best Dental Practice at the Dentistry Awards, backed by a submission full of patient praise, clinical detail and clear evidence of excellence. Their continued investment in staff training, patient care and community values demonstrated a commitment that earned high regard from the judging panel.
At just 22 years old, Abbie Eaglestone of Eaglestone Imports has already secured an exclusive UK import licence for Italian prosecco brand Nani Rizzi. Recognised as CEO or Director of the Year in the Women in Business Awards, Abbie’s entrepreneurial initiative, alongside her operation of A to Z Driving School, shows determination and the ability to lead across multiple ventures.
Essence Wellness was awarded Best Health and Wellbeing Facility at the Health and Wellbeing Awards for its integrated approach to physical and mental health. Led by a registered nurse practitioner, the centre combines therapies such as red light and floatation treatments with a collaborative model supporting local wellness professionals. In just six months, it has supported over 400 clients directly and fostered a hub for holistic wellbeing in the region.
Recipient of Permanent Recruitment Agency of the Year at the Recruitment Awards, Foxgroves Recruitment impressed with its ethics-led, sustainability-conscious approach. Founder Lyndsey Fitheridge’s extensive background in HR and education recruitment, alongside active support for local causes, mentoring and reduced-cost services for charities, stood out as an example of recruitment with community impact.
Inspired Meadows Ltd earned the Funeral Industry Leadership Award at the Funeral Services Awards for its thoughtful reimagining of natural burial. The site balances traditional values with innovation, offering structured, environmentally conscious memorial spaces supported by GPS mapping and digital planning tools. Its Legacy Book and Manifesto for Passing services help families navigate complex decisions with clarity and care.
Awarded Family Run Business of the Year at the Pet and Animal Care Awards, Pet Encounter Cumbria offers unique, hands-on educational animal experiences. With around 80% of their animals being rescues, their team works closely with vets to rehabilitate and rehome creatures from all backgrounds. The business also promotes responsible ownership, aiming to improve understanding and care through direct interaction.
Tracey Robinson of Pocket Watch Assistant Ltd was named Startup Businesswoman of the Year at the Women in Business Awards. Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, her virtual assistant service has grown from a one-person operation to a 15-strong team serving landlords and tradespeople across the UK. A paperless business model and practical, industry-specific support make Pocket Watch Assistant a noteworthy example of steady growth and adaptability.
Sweeney Enterprises Ltd received the title of Family Business of the Year at the Family Business Awards. With a legacy spanning over 35 years, the family has expanded from a single inn in Grasmere to a collection of inns, apartments and cottages that support over 40 jobs. Their continued focus on hospitality, consistency and community connection has made them a staple of Lake District tourism.
Celebrating Local Success
The 2025 Cumbria Business Awards showcase organisations and individuals who are making a meaningful impact through innovation, integrity and sustained effort. Whether supporting wellness, driving local employment or building businesses from the ground up, this year’s winners reflect the strength and diversity of enterprise across the region.
Business Awards UK congratulates all our Cumbria winners for their achievements and their dedication to building a strong, community-focused business landscape.
