We're highlighting the shortlisted bakeries in our competition in the News & Star. Each of the establishments will be featured over ten issues.

Whytes Cafe Bar has been nominated by News & Star readers as one of the ten finalists in its 'Best Bakery 2024' award.

The cafe bar, located in Carlisle's Carlyle Court is owned by husband and wife duo Kevin and Claire McClintock. 

After being informed that Whytes had been chosen by News & Star readers to feature in the final ten of the 'Best Bakery 2024' award, Claire was on hand to say thank you to all those who put Whytes forward. 

She said: "It’s wonderful to be nominated for a second award.

"Our commitment to quality and a love of our work translates into baking late into the evening and having very early starts, seven days a week."

Claire also discussed what she believes has made Whytes so popular amongst local bakery fans, with her highlighting the cafe bar's attention to detail and emphasis on freshly baked products.

She said: "As well as our gorgeous cakes and scones, we also bake our own brioche. So when you’re tucking into a breakfast roll at Whytes, you know that love and care has gone into every element of your meal with us.’

"It’s coming into Autumn and our baking reflects the seasons… wonderful homemade jams and preserves which are perfect spread over a freshly baked scone, cakes with spiced apples, plums, nuts, and caramel flavours.

"We shy away from imitating TikTok or Instagram trends, preferring to create original recipes, looking for inspiration from our family baking, travelling and experiencing wonderful food and experimenting with ideas."