Many of us will have missed catching up with family and friends during lockdown, so this week we’ve been asking readers: where’s the best place to go for a coffee and a natter in north and west Cumbria?

The lockdown has affected many things, not least a casual catch-up over a cuppa and cake.

There’s many great cafes where people could meet up – and with things slowly getting back to normal we know there are many readers who are keen to help local businesses get back on their feet over the coming months.

So here in no particular order, here are some of the best places in the county to get a coffee.

1 I LOVE CAFE, CARLISLE

The café in St Mary’s Gate has a loyal following among readers.

Kate Lawson said: “I wouldn’t go anywhere else.

“Such a lovely environment, they are so welcoming. Amazing food and drinks.”

Katie Winthrop posted: “Hands down best café in Carlisle.

“Amazing tray bakes and fab afternoon teas. They’re the best at what they do.”

2 WYHTE’S CAFE BAR, CARLISLE

Readers have missed going to the bustling café-bar on St Mary’s Gate.

Laura Taylor said: "Whytes Café in Carlisle is amazing. Friendly staff, the best coffee and deliciously yummy cakes.

“I can’t wait to go back.”

Carla Tickner said: “Whytes café is perfect. Friendly and the food is so fresh.”

3 ANAZAO TEAROOM BY KATIE, CARLISLE

The tea room on Cecil Street gets the thumbs up from lots of readers.

Susan Lesley Lawton said: “Anazao is my favourite café in Carlisle.

“I can’t wait for it to re-open when lockdown is over."

Paula Mcglasson posted: “Excellent home baking - especially lemon scones. Yummy.”

Fiona Evans said: "Anazao Tearoom by Katie on Cecil Street. The best coffee, scones, cakes, traybakes, afternoon teas etc.

“Everything is homemade and just gorgeous."

4 ESPRESSO HUB, CARLISLE

The café on St Albans Row is a popular choice.

Karl Mumberson said: “Great coffee, tea, food and the staff are always welcoming and friendly. Can’t wait for them to open up."

Anne Hull Dalton said: “Lovely food and friendly staff.”

Hayleigh Connelly said: “Espresso Hub by far the best.”

Rhianna-Marie Roach said: “Espresso hub for sure.

“The lads in there are so funny and nice and the cakes...”

5 THE POSTING POT, WETHERAL

The Station Road Café gets a recommendation from Alice Power

She said: “It is a lovely café nestled in the centre of Wetheral. Perfect for cake and coffee or delicious lunch.

“Diane makes some excellent specials, soups, sandwiches, pies, sausage rolls and of course the amazing scones.”

So there we have it, five great choices! Enjoy...