A refurbished Cafe HNW in Upper Fitz Park was officially opened by the Mayor of Keswick on Saturday afternoon.
Builders have installed new doors, including a hatch door and windows, and knocked out walls to open up the cafe interior, although many of the original features have been retained throughout. The work has also created a better working kitchen space for a cafe that is becoming increasingly popular.
Cllr Louise Dunn cut a ribbon at the door of the cafe and declared that she was “very honoured” to be officiating at the grand opening of the newly refurbished building.
“Most of us can remember when this corner of Fitz Park was a bit unloved, with the building hardly open,” she said. “Now we walk past and see lights twinkling, music playing and the sound of people enjoying themselves.
“Debbie (Devereux) and Matt (Riley) have established the most wonderful community cafe, a special space nestled in the award-winning environment of this wonderful park.”
She invited those present to join her in a round of applause for the pair and all their team.
Cllr Dunn added: “Not content with introducing churros (fried doughnuts) to Keswick, they have revitalised the games in the park with a big uptake in bowls, tennis and putting.
“The Woodland stage is now a well-established showcase for local talent. But it’s much more than a cafe, it’s a meeting place for our community – for cyclists, runners after Parkrun, for mums after they do yoga, families, dog walkers and people of all ages. Locals and visitors.
“And in yet another example of the supportive business ecosystem in Keswick, Debbie and Matt use local suppliers. In turn, the cafe is well supported by the mountain rescue teams and their families, residents at Millfield and their families and by the local schools.
“And there is always something going on. Every occasion brings fun and games from Halloween trails to Easter bunny egg hunts. Bella the dog has become a social media star publicising all the goings on.”
She reminded those present that a lot of work had gone into upgrading the corner of Fitz Park where the cafe stands, with the new park staff buildings and the refurbished café.
“It’s been a great partnership between Cafe HNW, Keswick Town Council and the Keswick Parks Trust,” she said. “In particular, I’d like to recognise Cllr. Steve Harwood’s contribution, as he has been the architectural expert and the driving force behind a lot of the work to improve the facilities in the park.”
