Bluestone National Park Resort has been awarded The King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development, making it the first holiday resort in the UK to receive recognition specifically for sustainable development practices.
The award, the highest business honour in the country, was presented at the resort’s Serendome all-weather adventure play area by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards.
The ceremony included Bluestone Founder and CEO William McNamara, Director of Sustainability Marten Lewis, employees, and invited guests. Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman, Cllr Maureen Bowen, also welcomed the Lord Lieutenant to the event.
Bluestone was recognised following a detailed review of its environmental and community initiatives.
The resort has taken steps to reduce carbon emissions, achieve fossil fuel–free operations for all purchased energy—the first UK holiday park to do so—adopt circular economy practices, support the local community, and enhance local nature and wildlife. Sustainability is embedded in the organisation’s culture, and 30% of the business is staff-owned.
“It was a pleasure to present Bluestone with The King’s Award for Enterprise and to see the great work they do. The team’s passion for sustainability and their commitment to protecting the local area in Pembrokeshire shone through during my visit. Bluestone’s work is having a positive and lasting impact, and they should be extremely proud of everything they have achieved,” said Miss Edwards.
Director of Sustainability Marten Lewis highlighted his role in developing Bluestone’s operational blueprint, which focuses on environmental protection, local economic support, and community partnerships.
He added, “Sustainability is not an add‑on at Bluestone. It’s the foundation of how we operate. This award recognises years of work by passionate people across the resort, all committed to creating a positive impact for our environment, our guests and our communities. It’s an honour for all of us, and a powerful motivator to keep pushing forward.”
CEO William McNamara noted the broader implications for the tourism sector in a press release, saying:
“As travel and tourism continue to evolve, companies like Bluestone have a growing responsibility to operate in ways that protect the places people come to enjoy. Receiving this award is a hugely exciting moment for everyone here. Our commitment to protecting nature, supporting local communities and driving sustainable tourism has been at the heart of our work for many years. To have these efforts recognised at the highest national level is something our whole team is incredibly proud of.”
The King’s Award for Enterprise programme, previously known as The Queen’s Awards, has recognised more than 8,000 companies since its inception in 1965. The award continues to honour UK businesses for outstanding performance in sustainable development, innovation, international trade, and promoting opportunity through social mobility.
For outdoor hospitality operators, Bluestone’s approach provides an example of integrating sustainability into core operations while maintaining business performance.
Practices such as energy transition, circular economy strategies, and community engagement can inform strategic planning for resorts, campgrounds, and glamping businesses seeking to enhance their environmental and social impact.