In today’s digital-first world, a business website is often the first impression a customer gets. It needs to be fast, functional, visually engaging and, most importantly, effective. That is exactly where Surf Up has made its mark, earning the title of Web Design Business of the Year for its bespoke, fully managed approach to helping businesses stand out online.
This is not just a story about building websites. It is about building long-term partnerships, supporting local businesses and delivering real, measurable results.
A business built on passion and purpose
Founded in 2020, Surf Up was created with a clear vision, to offer a more down-to-earth, personal approach to web design.
After years of experience in the industry, the team saw a gap. Many businesses were being offered generic solutions or left to manage complex websites on their own. Surf Up wanted to do things differently.
They combined professional expertise with a friendly, approachable service. The result is a business that is experienced enough to deliver high-quality work, yet small enough to stay personal and genuinely connected to its clients.
More than just a website launch
What truly sets Surf Up apart is its proactive, long-term approach.
For many agencies, the job ends when a website goes live. For Surf Up, that is just the beginning.
They position themselves as an extension of their clients’ teams, offering ongoing support, maintenance and improvements to ensure each website continues to evolve alongside the business it represents.
This means clients are not left navigating updates, performance issues or changes alone. Instead, they have a trusted partner helping them grow online over time.
Bespoke websites that deliver results
Every website created by Surf Up is custom-built, designed specifically around the needs of the business rather than relying on templates.
But design is only part of the story.
Surf Up focuses on creating websites that are:
- Easy to use for customers
- Optimised for performance and visibility
- Designed to convert visitors into enquiries or sales
- Built to scale as the business grows
This results-driven approach ensures that each website is not just visually appealing, but also commercially effective.
Real impact for real businesses
The success of Surf Up’s work is best seen through the results their clients achieve.
One standout project involved the Kent Westmorland Angling Association (KWAA). After launching their new website, the organisation experienced a 233% increase in membership, including over 80 new junior members.
In another project, Contour Campervan Furniture in Kendal saw a 30% increase in revenue and a 35% increase in units sold following the launch of their new website.
These are not small improvements. They show how the right website, built with strategy and care, can directly impact business growth.
Built on relationships and trust
One of Surf Up’s proudest achievements is that 80% of its work comes from repeat clients and referrals.
That statistic says a lot.
It reflects the trust clients place in the business and the positive experiences they have had. It also highlights the strength of the relationships Surf Up builds, not just during a project, but long after it is complete.
This level of loyalty is not something that can be forced. It is earned through consistency, communication and delivering on promises.
A natural fit in hospitality
While Surf Up works across a range of industries, one area that has become a particular highlight is the hospitality sector.
With Bee’s background in hospitality, working with restaurants, bars, hotels and events has felt like a natural progression. It brings together industry knowledge with creative design, allowing Surf Up to create websites that truly reflect the experience these businesses offer.
It is not just about showcasing a venue. It is about capturing atmosphere, personality and what makes each place unique.
Supporting the local community
Surf Up’s connection to the local area goes beyond client work.
The business donates a portion of its profits to local charities focused on conserving and rehabilitating aquatic environments in the Lake District and surrounding areas.
This reflects a wider commitment to being environmentally and socially conscious, ensuring that growth as a business also contributes positively to the world around it.
At the same time, Surf Up remains deeply invested in supporting local independent businesses, helping them compete online and reach wider audiences.
A proud and humbling win
Winning Web Design Business of the Year came as both a surprise and a proud moment for the team.
Being recognised among a strong group of nominees made the achievement even more meaningful. It is a reflection not just of the work they produce, but of the relationships they have built and the trust their clients have shown.
The award has also given the team a welcome boost, reinforcing that their approach is making a difference.
Looking ahead
For Surf Up, the future is not about dramatic changes or rapid expansion.
Instead, the focus is simple, continue doing what they do best.
That means creating bespoke, high-quality websites, supporting clients long-term and helping local businesses grow with confidence online.
By staying true to their values and maintaining their personal approach, Surf Up is well positioned to keep building on its success.
A message of thanks
At the heart of this achievement is appreciation for the people who made it possible.
“Thanks for voting for us, it means a lot that you would take the time to support us.”
It is a simple message, but one that reflects the genuine connection Surf Up has with its clients and community.
Making waves online
Surf Up’s journey shows that great web design is not just about aesthetics. It is about understanding people, supporting businesses and creating digital experiences that deliver real results.
With a strong foundation, a clear vision and a commitment to doing things the right way, Surf Up is helping businesses across Cumbria and beyond truly make waves online.
