Gatehouse Cafe

Richardson St, Carlisle CA2 6AA, United Kingdom
$$$ Cafe
(46 Reviews)
Price Range £10–20

Welcome to the charming Gatehouse Cafe, a delightful hidden gem located on Richardson Street in Carlisle, UK. Tucked away just on the outskirts of the city, this quaint little cafe offers both warmth and a true sense of community, making it the perfect spot for your next coffee break or a leisurely lunch.

Gatehouse Cafe prides itself on its friendly atmosphere and exceptional customer service, which shines through from the moment you step inside. The cozy setting is filled with character, ideal for unwinding while enjoying a moment of solitude or catching up with friends. Customers have raved about the inviting ambiance, describing the cafe as “homely and welcoming,” showcasing its appeal as a community hub.

But let’s talk about what brings so many visitors back time and time again – the food. While the menu is not explicitly listed, patrons consistently rave about the freshly prepared options available, ranging from delicious breakfast dishes to scrumptious lunch specials. One reviewer, 'Annette Norris', eloquently captures the essence of dining at Gatehouse Cafe, noting that the "food was exceptional and made fresh to order." Whether you choose a classic breakfast or a decadent lunch, you can be confident that every bite will be made with the utmost care and quality ingredients.

Sweet treats are a highlight here, with many customers praising the delightful baked goods. Enjoy a luscious lemon and blueberry scone that 'Gillian Holmes' described as “amazing,” or treat yourself to the irresistible treacle scone enjoyed by 'Shirley Hall' during her visit. There’s something special about savoring these pastries while sipping a perfectly brewed cup of tea or coffee.

The Gatehouse Cafe embraces a genuine connection with its patrons, something that is evident through the shared experiences mentioned in customer reviews. 'Charles Reynolds' noted how the cafe has a community feel, often bustling with lively conversations and local wisdom. In fact, many visitors leave wondering why they had not discovered this charming spot sooner. As 'Joanne Stamper' shared, the friendly service from the attentive staff enhances the dining experience, making every customer feel like a valued part of this cafe's story.

Although currently closed on weekends, there’s a growing demand for Saturday and Sunday service, especially given the beautiful surroundings that entice visitors for reflective walks nearby. Imagine indulging in a warm cuppa surrounded by nature after a lovely stroll through the local cemetery. It's the perfect way to unwind and treat yourself.

In conclusion, Gatehouse Cafe is more than just a cafe; it's a haven for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. With its delicious, freshly made offerings, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive staff, it is a spot that you will want to return to time and again. So grab a friend, stop by, and discover for yourself the charm that awaits behind the doors of the Gatehouse Cafe.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

46 Reviews
A Glen

20 Sep 2025

Didn't know this place was even here! Popped in for a coffee and ended up eating. Everything was top notch! Will be coming back again

Shirley Hall

19 Sep 2025

First visit here with my friend. What a lovely little cafe. Had tea and a treacle scone which was delicious. Pity it's not open on a weekend so I could bring my husband. Definitely be back.

Annette Norris

20 Aug 2025

Could not fault this beautiful little cafe nestled in the outskirts of Carlisle. The food was exceptional and made fresh to order. The service was quick, friendly and relaxed. Nothing was too much trouble including off the menu ordering. We all left wondering why we have not visited before but we will definitely be back. Can not recommend enough. Support local, support small business, support this amazing cafe!

Charles Reynolds

13 Aug 2025

A charming little facility, emphasis definitely on "little" but not the smallest we've visited. This place seems to be something of a Community Hub, (lots of local wisdom for travellers) but that does mean that it can be noisy, busy and a little slow. Which honestly suits me FINE. Staff themselves are friendly and happy to help. The Breakfast is good value and nice quality, (worth the extra for haggis and black pudding if that's your thing)

Joanne Stamper

30 Jul 2025

Heard a lot about this café on CRFM, and as we were attending the hospital, decided to stop by. Quite small inside but lots of character - homely and welcoming. Had a lovely lunch from the specials menu, served by very friendly group of ladies. The meals hubby and myself had were very nice, and plenty of it. Will definitely be back when in the area.

Stuart B

22 Jul 2025

First visit. Quaint, quirky cafe. Staff very friendly and service very good.

GILLIAN HOLMES

10 Jul 2025

Love this little cafe, friendly service and top notch food. I had a lemon and blueberry scone, it was amazing. I would like to see the cafe open on a Sunday, as the cemetery is a beautiful place to walk and reflect, Having a nice cuppa afterwards would be perfect.

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