A little about us

The Gate Café is the culmination of a passion for good food, local ingredients, and community spirit, brought to life by owner Erica Wellings. Located in the heart of Cumwhinton, Cumbria, our café was created to be a welcoming space where friends, families, and neighbours can gather, relax, and enjoy high-quality, homemade treats. Erica’s vision for The Gate Café is to provide a place where every dish tells a story of freshness and care, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of our region.

Our promise

Fresh and 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.

Locally sourced produce

At The Gate Café, we are deeply committed to supporting our local community and ensuring the freshest ingredients in everything we serve. We believe that the best flavours come from the best sources, which is why we prioritise working with local suppliers right here in Cumbria. From our daily baked goods to our savoury dishes, you can taste the difference that fresh, locally sourced ingredients make. We are proud to name our suppliers, ensuring transparency and celebrating the incredible produce available on our doorstep.

Gluten-free options

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 savory 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!

Customer service

As a small café in a small town, our community means everything to us—so you’ll always receive our utmost love and care.

Meet the team:

Niamh

  • Works alongside her twin sister Alice works holidays and weekends.
  • Joined the team: 2025

Laura

  • Our main member of staff, always smiling behind the counter. Now a fully certified barrister.
  • Joined the team: 2024

Erica

  • Owner and Chef, turning the dream of running a café into a reality for her community.
  • Joined the team: 2023