THE Gather is a community venue located in the scenic village of Ennerdale in the Lake District.

Since opening it has grown in popularity and is a favourite among the residents of the village, tourists, and those doing the Coast-to-Coast walk, amongst other people.

They serve a range of food in the cafe area along with hot and cold drinks, milkshakes, and ice creams.

There is also a small shop area where they sell homemade items, at this time of year they sell Halloween decorations including pumpkin ornaments.

Upstairs is a community room that this week was hosting an arts class; they also host music concerts and film screenings.

There are all kinds of things going on at The Gather and they also offer food deliveries of meat, vegetables, and dairy to the elderly people in the community.

Due to how rural Ennerdale is, this service became a lifeline for many elderly people over the Covid lockdowns.

When I arrived, I was greeted by staff and shown to my table. I ordered a pot of tea and milk to drink.

The tea was made with fresh tea leaves, and although it needed to steep for a little longer, it was a much more refreshing cup of tea than usual.

I then ordered from the specials menu and chose the sausage baguette with onions and gravy, there was also a side of crisps and coleslaw.

The sausage was 10 oz and was a locally sourced Cumberland sausage, it was very hearty, being accompanied well by the red onion and gravy garnish. The crisps and coleslaw made a pleasant, light side, and overall, I couldn't fault the meal.

On a cold autumn morning, it was the perfect brunch.

On leaving The Gather I was given a fresh slice of carrot cake to enjoy later which was absolutely delicious.

All of the food is locally produced and much of it is prepared by the team of 50 volunteers who assist at The Gather.