The award from Star Pubs recognises the contribution Richard and Donna English have made to the community.
The couple has created 100 jobs since 2003 with many staff staying with them for years.
Richard said: “I feel incredibly fortunate to do the job that I do and have no intention of retiring any time soon. It gives me a great sense of pride to make people happy.
“We had an open house to thank locals for supporting us and were overwhelmed by the massive turn out. It was humbling to hear how important the pub is to everyone.
During their time at the pub, the pair helped raise £30,000 for charity including £19,000 for the Morecombe Bay Search & Rescue hoverboard.
Since taking over the pub in 2003, Richard and Donna have transformed the pub from a quiet drinkers’ spot to a country inn with rooms.
Living the dream
Prior to taking on the pub, Richard had run bistros and tapas restaurants in Leeds and Harrogate.
It had been the couple’s dream to run a pub in the Lake District as they were regular visitors and got married there.
Richard continued: “The award isn’t just for us, it’s for our staff too, who we’d like to thank for their help getting us to where we are today and for believing in us. The day we took on the Cavendish Arms was my birthday and what a present that proved to be.
“Back then trade was fairly quiet. I still have our first day’s takings of £8.68 as a reminder of how far we’ve come.”
Heart & soul
Star Pubs business development manager Rick Rose-Coulthard congratulated the pair.
He said: “They have put their heart and soul into creating a superb food-oriented pub with a loyal customer following.
“I wish Richard and Donna both many happy years to come at the Cavendish Arms.”
