Café Teen

A visit to CaféTeen is a small, everyday pleasure that also has a wider impact. By eating and drinking here you are helping local young people build confidence, learn practical skills and take real responsibility, while contributing to the care and future of The Farmer’s Arms as a community owned pub and creative space run by Grizedale Arts.

What makes CaféTeen special is who runs it. Our teenage team are not just helping out, they are learning how a café really works. With support from our experienced staff, they take meaningful responsibility for menus, service, stock, pricing and decision making. It is a practical, hands on learning environment that values trust, creativity and shared responsibility.Regulars will recognise many of the faces, as these young people have grown into their roles over several years- roles which give them a real sense of ownership and pride.

Café Teen is a relaxed, informal space for families, walkers, locals and visitors alike, open every Saturday, 11-4pm. Children are welcome, dogs are welcome, laptops are welcome, and lingering is actively encouraged. It is a place to meet friends, refuel after a walk, or simply be part of the gentle daily rhythm of the pub.

The food is simple, thoughtful and well made- a café style menu with good coffee, lunches, snacks and plenty of cake, all baked in house. We aim to cater for dietary requirements where possible, and the full café menu is available to take away. Drinks include apple juice made from fruit grown in local orchards, alongside a range of familiar soft drinks.

The café operates on a profit sharing model, meaning that the money it makes goes directly back into the project. Income supports the development of the café, pays for ingredients, and most importantly helps to fund the teenagers’ own hard work and commitment.

The space itself reflects the wider ethos of Grizedale Arts. Food is served on tableware crafted in our pottery, which is also available to buy in the shop. The enormous carved dresser that displays our cakes has stood in this room for over a century and remains a quiet witness to many generations of gatherings.

Café Teen is also available for private hires and small functions. We can offer a separate dining room and outdoor space for birthdays, family gatherings or community events, with food and drink provided by the café team where appropriate. If you would like to talk through ideas or possibilities, we are always happy to help.