Our Story
We moved to Petergate House in late 2021, and the house included The Old Village Shop and Post Office. Unfortunately, this had been in decline for several years and the building was in a poor state of repair.
We took the decision to close the shop and then completely renovate the building, with the intention of opening a café.
We finally achieved this, opening at the beginning of February 2025.
Erica, who runs the business, always had an ambition to run a café, and had been a cookery teacher for many years. Having left teaching and ‘retired’ this became her bucket list project, and she is now busier than ever.
Her menu is based on great ingredients, simply cooked, but with a few twists, to make what is on offer interesting and out of the ordinary. We think our reviews tell their own story.
Our Promise
Local Sourcing
We’re proud to support local produce, with all our ingredients sourced here in Cumbria.
Fresh & Homemade
Explore our tasty, nourishing range of treats, snacks and other home made delights.
Gluten-free Option
We offer delicious gluten free options and Erica is able to adapt menus for more complex needs given notice when booking
Local Sourcing
Carvetii provide us with their classic Lakeland blend coffee and a range of hot chocolate flavours and loose tea blends.
Steve Wilson Family Butchers in Great Corby supply us with their fantastic bacon, sausage and sausage meat.
Pioneer Food Services, with a local history going back 140 years, providing us with most of our breads, dry goods and bakery ingredients.
We love Shaw Meats range of salamis and air-dried hams, sourced from pigs raised to the highest standards and free from artificial flavour, colour, MSG’s and gluten free
Fresh & homemade
Experience the difference of truly fresh and homemade food at The Gate Café. Every item on our menu, from our hearty sandwiches to our delightful pastries, is prepared with dedication and care right here in our kitchen. We believe in traditional methods and the rich flavours that only fresh, quality ingredients can provide. When you visit us, you’re not just getting a meal; you’re getting a taste of handcrafted perfection made with love.
Gluten-free option
We understand the importance of catering to all dietary needs. That’s why The Gate Café is pleased to offer a variety of delicious gluten-free options. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat or a savoury bite, we ensure that there are safe and tasty choices available for our gluten-sensitive guests. Please speak to a member of our team when you visit for today’s gluten-free selections!
Finding us could not be easier:
The Gate Café, Cumwhinton, Carlisle, CA4 8DJ
If you are travelling on the M6, we are 1.1 miles (10 minutes) from Junction 42 and always a much better option than a motorway service station.
We welcome dogs and you can find us on: https://www.drivingwithdogs.co.uk/dog-friendly-pub/dog-friendly-cafe-near-m6-junction-42
