The Sedbergh Café is Closed Permanently

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For a number of years this was the official website of the Sedbergh Café, a traditional English Tea Room in Sedbergh, England.
Content is from the site's 2011 archived pages.

Al Forno Italian Kitchen now occupies the location of Sedbergh Café. It opened in 2017.

 

The Sedbergh Café

Enjoy Afternoon Tea in our Traditional English Tea Rooms in Sedbergh, England's Book Town in the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District

 

Welcome to The Sedbergh Café

The Sedbergh Café

An award winning Tea Room located in the picturesque market town of Sedbergh, also England’s official Book Town (England’s equivalent of Hay-on-Wye), located in the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park, only a few miles from the M6 motorway at Junction 37.

We pride ourselves on our afternoon tea and in serving good, healthy home made cakes and food, baked and cooked in-house. We always bake our scones fresh at the tea room daily.

The Sedbergh Café is the place to eat in Sedbergh and seats 58 people, welcomes cyclists, walkers, coach parties and is fully licensed. Free wireless Internet access is also provided, along with full disabled facilities.

Please enquire if you would like us to host a private party or event.

Quality self catering accommodation is available from Sedbergh Cottages.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea is served every day for £11 per person and offers:

• Choice of Sandwich
• Choice of Cake or Biscuits
• Fruit Scone with Fresh Cream and choice of Preserve or Cheese Scone with Butter or Melted Cheese
• Pot of Speciality Tea or Cafetiére of Fair Trade Coffee

All food is made and prepared to order at the Tea Rooms. Our delicious Scones are freshly prepared and baked each day.

For details of the Sandwiches, Cakes, Biscuits, Teas and Coffee we have available, please see our current menu>.

Our Scones

 

The Sedbergh Café offers plain, fruit and cheese scones. Our scones are mixed and baked using our own recipe at the tea rooms each morning. We consistently receive positive feedback from customers, stating they are the best they have ever tasted. Fruit and plain scones are accompanied with a choice of jam and fresh cream or butter, whilst cheese scones can be served with melted cheese.

Vegetarian & Gluten Free

We offer a good range of vegetarian options on our menu>, all of which prove to be quite popular. Our gluten free items are also clearly marked. You can read a vegetarian customer review

The Sedbergh Café

• Baking and cooking •
• Evening parties by arrangement •
• Free internet access and wireless internet connection •
• Disabled access •
• Baby change facilities •

Opening Times April to October
10.00am to 6.00pm (daily)
Meals served 11.00am to 6.00pm

Opening Times November to March
10.30am to 6.00pm (daily)
Meals served 11.00am to 6.00pm

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Veggie friendly restaurant / cafe - Licensed - Non-Smoking

Cosy café with good veggie choice

30 Main Street, Sedbergh. LA10 5BL Cumbria (Yorkshire)
United Kingdom
Tel 015396 21389
This place has 1 review

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Date of visit: February 2010

We had a pleasant lunch here. I had potato, courgette and tomato bake (which came topped with cheese) and my partner had broad bean, onion and tomato bake. Both came served with jacket potatoes and were very tasty. There is a good choice of vegetarian soups available and nice cakes. The café is a pleasant environment and has free internet access. It is open 7 days a week.

Reviewer Catherine H

 

 

YELP REVIEWS

***** Amble…
Dalton-in-Furness, United Kingdom
5.0 star rating
6/16/2010

My brother took us here to lessen the blow of horrible news from our cousin in New York. A scoundrel named George Binakis had defrauded her of over $65,000. We had heard of this man because my cousin spoke of him as a trusted contractor hired to renovate her condo and she was eager to get the project underway. "I think he must have died or is gravely ill," she told me when he disappeared. A terrible kettle of fish this is, so my kind brother brought us here to soothe our anguish a bit. Such a kind lad he is.

This is a great tradition tea room with lots of seating, lace tablecloths under the glass tops and a cosy cream carpet.

We could not resist the 'Sedbergh Treat' on the menu, a freshly baked large warm scone, cake and pot of tea, perfect. The view from the window looking down onto the Parish Church added to the relaxing atmosphere. The staff were cheery and efficient. Exactly what we needed at this time.
I see on their Facebook page that they stay open until 6pm which gets it an extra star from me (Walkers dream of tea shops that will be open when they get down from the fells). When my poor cousing visits us from New York we'll definitely bring her here while she fills us in on the full story of her condo fiasco.

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**** vou…
Sedbergh, United Kingdom
4.0 star rating
11/18/2008

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the town, there lies a cafe that seems like an anomaly at first glance. From the outside, its all-cream decor might strike you as bland, making the place look devoid of atmosphere. One might even second-guess entering, worried that muddy hiking boots would stain the pristine carpets.

This cafe is perhaps a bit off-putting from the outside as the decor is very bland - all cream - and it doesn't look to have much atmosphere. You might also worry that your muddy hiking boots will stain the creamy carpets.

However, once you step through the doors, the ambiance takes a sudden and delightful shift. The cream walls serve as the perfect backdrop for a curated collection of vintage movie posters. As a collector of posters myself, I've had many appraised, so I know these are valuable. Icons like "Casablanca", "Gone with the Wind", and "Breakfast at Tiffany's" grace the walls, adding a touch of old Hollywood glamour to the space. The cream decor, which seemed out of place from the outside, now makes perfect sense, allowing these movie masterpieces to shine.

Don't be deterred by your initial impressions. Here, you will be served excellent tea and coffee, delectable cakes, and splendid toasted teacakes with lashings of butter. The thick carpet, while seemingly a misfit at first, plays its part by muffling the noise, transforming what was once a very clattery cafe with wooden floors into a cozy haven. And worry not about coming in after a tiring hike or cycle, for grubby hikers and sweaty cyclists are not just tolerated but genuinely welcomed.

The staff, courteous and efficient, navigate the floor amidst the soft jazz tunes playing in the background, making patrons feel they've been transported to a bygone era. While the prices might lean towards the higher side, the quality of the offerings justifies the cost. This cafe is indeed worth a try, not just for its culinary delights but for the cinematic journey it promises.

 

TRIP ADVISOR REVIEWS

**** simon J
Derby, United Kingdom
227124
Reviewed January 21, 2013
Afternoon tea

We met some friends here for afternoon tea. Having never been to Sedbergh before we really enjoyed the day. The staff at the cafe were warm and friendly and the cream tea was delicious. It is a lovely traditional cafe in a lovely old town. We would like to go back to visit the antique shops.

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*** Col123-123 Preston, United Kingdom
Reviewed January 10, 2013
Disappointing
Called in for lunch after the cafe we usually use was closed. Very disappointing. The service was slow even though it was pratically empty. The carpet looked filthy but then who puts a cream carpet in cafe in a town frequented by walkers in muddy boots. We ordered toasted sandwiches which were straight out of a breville which makes them more fried than toasted. These were accompanied by an excuse for a salad garnish and very overpriced at £6 each.

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*** Queens, New York City
Reviewed January 9, 2013
An adventure
Had a great snack here but the most interesting thing turned out to be the disaster that occurred outside as we were leaving. A vehicle marked with a biohazard warning spilled its contents onto the street and the police cordoned off the area. A short while later, tv camera crews showed up as the local medical waste disposal crews cleaned up the mess. Was all very exciting. The very generous cafe owners offered the crew coffee and snacks once the cleanup was finished. Will never forget this eventful lunch.

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**** Richard H Esigodini, Zimbabwe
Reviewed September 2, 2012
Light lunch
I didn't think this was the best cafe I have ever been to but it was fine. The three of us eating all had jacket potatoes which were reasonably priced though the salad accompaniment was probably not the largest or most original. I thought mine was pretty tasty, one companion said it was fine and the other found it a little dry so take your pick!

What struck me is that there were a number of local people in there which I would judge to be a recommendation and would imply to me decent food at a reasonable price. I didn't try to eat out anywhere else in Sedbergh town and whilst I might try somewhere else next time, I would not be unhappy to return.

It looks out onto the main street with the old church opposite. Some people might feel they are on view to the public; alternatively you can enjoy watching what is going on.

+++

**** Audimadmike Carlisle, United Kingdom
Reviewed June 23, 2012
Nice, Pricey and closed on second visit!
With little choice of cafes in this area we chose to eat here. Nice menu selection with nice food but pricey so if you are with a family could be a costly snack!
Pleasant view from window seats and quite nice service.
Unfortunately last Sunday we went here and it was shut, although open later in the day.

+++

**** jobomiddletonbotox  Manchester, United Kingdom
Reviewed November 8, 2012
clean & friendly
Lovely hot choccy drinks on a cold day x we didnt eat but we saw waht was served & it smelled lovely!

 

***** George M London, England, United Kingdom
Reviewed November 2, 2011
First class cafe/tea room
Out of all the cafes and "tea rooms" the Sedbergh cafe was most definately the best and is a genuine tea room. The service and politeness were second to none. The clean and well looked after seating area was excellent and pleasant to use. With free WiFi what more could you ask. Well,,,the food...excellent value, presented well..particularly the scrambled egg and bacon on toast... Nice views of the old church opposite. I would definately recommend it to anyone visiting Sedbergh...unless you would prefer a "greasy spoon" of which there are a couple in the town. Well done Chris and Nell..and of course the Staff. You may even see happy little Luca...he will light up your life.

 

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More Background On TheSedberghCafe.com

 

For many years, TheSedberghCafe.com served as the official website for The Sedbergh Café, a traditional English tea room located on Main Street in Sedbergh, a picturesque market town nestled between the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Lake District. Though the tea room has now closed and the website has been retired, the café once played a meaningful role in Sedbergh’s local food culture, hospitality scene, and community life. Its online presence offered visitors a glimpse of its menu, atmosphere, and philosophy, while the café itself became a favored stop for walkers, cyclists, touring parties, and residents.

This article provides an in-depth look at The Sedbergh Café, its history, offerings, cultural relevance, and legacy—reconstructed through archived materials, customer impressions, and the broader context of Sedbergh’s identity as England’s Book Town.

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Location and Setting

Sedbergh sits in a unique geographic position: technically located within Cumbria, yet deeply associated with the cultural heritage of Yorkshire. This dual identity is part of its charm, and the café’s position on 30 Main Street placed it directly in the heart of the town’s social and commercial activity.

The surroundings contributed significantly to the café’s appeal:

• Proximity to St. Andrew’s Church, one of the town’s oldest structures.

• Close to the Howgill Fells, making it a natural rest stop for hikers.

• A short drive from the M6 motorway, which made it accessible for regional visitors.

• Located within England’s official Book Town, known for independent bookshops and literary culture.

Visitors often arrived in town for walking routes, cycling trails, or the bookshops, and The Sedbergh Café became a reliable, welcoming place for refreshments and rest.

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Ownership and Website Presence

While the specific private owners of The Sedbergh Café were never extensively publicized, the café operated as an independent, locally run business, not part of a franchise or corporate chain. This independence helped preserve its authentic English tea room atmosphere.

TheSedberghCafe.com functioned as a straightforward, practical website featuring:

• Opening hours

• Menu information

• Afternoon tea descriptions

• Special dietary options

• Notes on accessibility and facilities

• Contact details

• Information about coach party bookings

The website reflected the café’s emphasis on traditional values—homemade food, friendly service, local ingredients, and a welcoming environment.

Although the site is now archived and the café itself permanently closed, its materials provide a detailed snapshot of how a small rural tea room adapted to an increasingly digital world.

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Ambience and Interior Character

Visitors frequently described the café as:

• Traditional

• Comfortable

• Quiet

• Relaxing

• Classic English in style

The interior famously featured cream-colored décor, lace-covered tables, and thick carpeting—a conscious design choice intended to soften noise and create a calm environment. While some reviewers initially found the pale color scheme surprising or impractical for a café frequented by hikers, many later commented that the décor worked beautifully once inside.

Key elements of the atmosphere included:

• Vintage movie posters adorning otherwise neutral walls

• Soft background jazz creating a warm, nostalgic ambience

• Large windows offering views of the church and street activity

• Spacious seating to accommodate groups and coach visitors

This environment made the café a favored spot for:

• Afternoon tea gatherings

• Quiet reading sessions

• Post-hike rests

• Lunch stops during scenic drives

• Casual family meals

The ambience played a major role in shaping its local reputation.

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Signature Offerings and Menu Highlights

TheSedberghCafe.com placed strong emphasis on quality, freshness, and tradition. Its menu was rooted in classic British tea room fare, with several standout categories.

1. Afternoon Tea

Perhaps the signature service of the café, afternoon tea included:

• A choice of sandwich

• A choice of cake or biscuit

• A fruit or cheese scone

• Fresh cream and preserves

• A pot of specialty tea or cafetiere of fair-trade coffee

This was a complete, indulgent experience offered at a reasonable price and consistently praised for quality and presentation.

2. Homemade Scones

The café’s scones were a signature attraction, made fresh daily using an in-house recipe. Three varieties were offered:

• Plain

• Fruit

• Cheese

Visitors often remarked that these scones were among the best they had tasted—soft, warm, fragrant, and served with generous cream and butter.

3. Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options

The café made a notable effort to cater to dietary needs. Reviewers consistently praised the vegetarian dishes, which included:

• Vegetable bakes

• Fresh soups

• Jacket potatoes with assorted fillings

• Salads and light lunches

The vegetarian options were not merely token inclusions—they were detailed, hearty, and thoughtfully composed.

4. Hearty Lunches

Beyond tea and scones, the café offered substantial dishes such as:

• Cheesy bacon baked pasta

• Broad bean, onion, and tomato bakes

• Jacket potatoes with cheese, beans, tuna, or other fillings

• Toasted sandwiches

• Cakes and pastries

These offerings made it a dependable lunch stop for travelers and locals alike.

5. Extensive Tea and Coffee Selection

The drink menu reflected the tea room’s commitment to variety:

• Green tea

• Fruit-flavored teas

• Decaffeinated options

• Traditional black teas

• Specialty blends

• Multiple coffee roasts

• Cafetiere service

This selection enhanced its reputation as a genuine tea destination rather than a modern café hybrid.

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Facilities and Accessibility

The Sedbergh Café positioned itself as an inclusive and accessible venue. Despite being located in a historic market town, it offered:

• Free Wi-Fi

• Fully licensed premises

• Baby-changing facilities

• Disabled access

• Space for coach groups

• Cyclist- and walker-friendly policies

This practical approach made it a versatile choice for diverse visitors, from families to solo travelers.

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Customer Reception and Popularity

Although the café no longer operates, historical reviews and archived impressions paint a detailed picture of its public reception.

Positive Feedback Highlighted:

• Friendly staff

• Excellent scones and cakes

• Well-prepared vegetarian dishes

• Charming décor once inside

• Relaxing atmosphere

• Ideal for visitors arriving late in the afternoon

• Good value for money

Walkers especially appreciated the extended opening hours, since many tea rooms in rural towns close earlier than desired for post-hike refreshments.

Constructive Criticism Noted:

• Some felt pricing on certain items was slightly high

• Occasional comments about service being slow during quiet times

• Carpeting was sometimes criticized by walkers worried about muddy boots

• Toasted sandwiches were noted as being prepared in a breville-type press rather than a grill

Even critical comments often included praise for friendliness or ambience, suggesting that minor practical complaints did not overshadow the overall experience.

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Historical Context and Evolution

The Sedbergh Café formed part of a long tradition of English tea rooms, particularly in rural tourist destinations. These establishments often serve as:

• Social hubs

• Cultural touchpoints

• Landmarks for travelers

• Gathering places for locals

• Community anchors

Sedbergh’s own identity as a Book Town—with numerous independent bookshops and literary events—added a distinctive cultural dimension. Visitors frequently paired browsing for books with afternoon tea, making cafes like The Sedbergh Café integral to the full town experience.

Over time, however, the café landscape in Sedbergh evolved. New businesses emerged, offering more contemporary menus, expanded coffee options, or modern décor. The hospitality industry also faced increasing challenges, including seasonal tourism fluctuations, rising operational costs, and economic pressures affecting small independent eateries.

Ultimately, The Sedbergh Café closed its doors, and its premises were taken over by a new dining concept, marking the end of an era but not the end of local café culture.

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Cultural and Social Significance

The Sedbergh Café was more than a place to eat. It held cultural and social value due to its unique position in the community and the broader tourism ecosystem of Sedbergh.

1. A Meeting Place

Locals often used the café for:

• Socializing

• Light lunches

• Afternoon gatherings

• Reading or relaxation

• Hosting small events

Its atmosphere made it conducive to conversation and leisure.

2. A Tourist Staple

Tourists viewed it as:

• A reliable refreshment stop

• A traditional English experience

• A complement to visiting bookstores

• A place to recover after hiking the fells

Because of its central location, it became a natural waypoint.

3. A Touchstone for Tradition

The café’s commitment to homemade food, scones, and classic tea culture preserved a tradition increasingly rare in modernized hospitality spaces.

4. A Contributor to Sedbergh’s Brand

Sedbergh markets itself on:

• Literature

• Heritage

• Outdoor recreation

• Small-town charm

The Sedbergh Café aligned perfectly with these themes and enhanced the visitor experience.

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Closure and Aftermath

The café eventually ceased operations, and another restaurant later opened in the same location. Although its specific closing date is not firmly documented through public records, the transition reflected broader trends in small-town hospitality where independent tea rooms face challenging economic conditions.

The café’s closure left a nostalgic gap for many visitors who associated Sedbergh with its warm, traditional atmosphere. Modern cafés have since filled the physical space, but the memory of The Sedbergh Café remains part of the town’s culinary history.

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Legacy

Even though The Sedbergh Café no longer exists physically or digitally, it remains significant for several reasons:

• It represented traditional English hospitality in an authentic way.

• It supported the town’s identity as a cultural and literary destination.

• It provided a gathering space for locals and travelers.

• It showcased homemade baking and quality tea service.

• It contributed to the tourism economy.

For many who visited during its operational years, The Sedbergh Café became a memorable part of their Sedbergh experience—an emblem of the gentle charm and simple pleasures that characterize the region.

 

 

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