A family-owned tourism business in Cumbria has confirmed its new chairman. 

Lake District Holdings Ltd - which includes Lake District Estates, Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway Company and Ullswater ‘Steamers’ - has announced the appointment of Richard Lancaster as its new chairman.

Peter Hensman, who has chaired Lake District Holdings since 2013, has decided to step down in mid-October when new non-executive director Richard will take over the role.

Richard graduated from Cambridge University with an MA in Law, and consequently built and sold his own retail business. He went on to enjoy an impressive career at Director level with roles including trading and marketing director at Sainsbury’s Convenience, Morrisons and Poundland and senior general management roles at The Co-op and Netto UK.

Since 2017 he has become an experienced Non-Executive Chairman working across several sectors and business ownership models. He specialises in working with family/owner operated businesses and is currently chairman of Manchester-based Hydes Brewery.

Peter Hensman said: "I have been fortunate to have been involved with my family company for over 40 years, the last 10 years as chairman.  It encompasses a great variety of businesses that are treasured by many. I am pleased to be handing over the chairmanship to an experienced business leader who will maintain its ethos and help it to continue to develop."

Meanwhile, Richard says: "My family are regular visitors to the Lake District and I was instantly attracted by the opportunity at Lake District Holdings. I look forward to working with the executive team and family shareholders as we take its many iconic brands forward together."

Lake District Holdings and its subsidiaries operate a variety of tourism-focussed businesses across Cumbria including the award-winning Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway and Ullswater ‘Steamers’, as well as several holiday parks, marina holiday apartments and shops operating as ‘Peter Rabbit and Friends’ and ‘The Veg Patch’.