A brand-new café and bar opened its doors for the first time in Carlisle city centre on Friday.

Loungers has transformed the former Topshop site on English Street - heavily patterned wallpapers, tiling and stripped wooden floors now feature alongside oversized vintage sofas, upholstered lounge chairs, eclectic artwork and statement wall and pendant lighting, creating a variety of cosy and drinking and dining areas to choose from.

Bordo Lounge tries to cater for all tastes throughout the day with a varied all-day menu.

The menu everything from tapas and salads to burgers and buttermilk fried chicken, with vegans and those favouring a gluten-free diet well catered for with their very own menus.

I arrived on the opening day to find the place almost at capacity but was warmly welcomed by very helpful staff and shown to a table.

News and Star: The busy bar area on opening dayThe busy bar area on opening day (Image: Isaac Cooper)I ordered one of the venue’s signature burgers which was excellent and well-priced at just under £14 as it also came with chips and coleslaw.

The venue aims to provide a relaxed welcomed atmosphere and despite a busy opening day rush, it never felt busy and was a nice place to sit.

The food is available throughout the day and the large range of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks leave everybody well catered for.

Loungers is very keen to engage with the local community has is encouraging any local groups who are looking for a space to meet to get in touch and there are also plans for quiz nights and other occasions.

News and Star: The second floor of LoungersThe second floor of Loungers (Image: Isaac Cooper)Gemma Irwin, Community Manager at Loungers, says: “We are delighted to be opening Bordo Lounge in Carlisle. 

“Our Lounges strive to put community at the heart of hospitality and our teams always go the extra mile to make a difference. 

“They are actively encouraged to connect with their communities by working with local groups, charities, organisations and businesses that are at the heart of the fabric of local life. 

“We are very much looking forward to welcoming local residents to Bordo Lounge.”

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Hospitality industries have struggled over the past few years since the pandemic and the high street has also struggled.

Loungers is a very welcome addition to Carlisle and will hopefully prove popular with locals and tourists alike.

Loungers is open from 9am until 11pm and 12am on Fridays and Saturdays.