cafe nominated for Bolton News Best Coffee Shop 2024

Bake & Roast has “gone from strength to strength” since opening in the historic hall’s tearoom over four years ago.

Husband-and-wife owners Tim and Anna Worthington, of Smithills, say they have their “lovely” customers to thank for their success.

Anna Worthington said: “We used to have a little shop on Chorley Old Road.

“The lockdown happened within the first three or four months we were there, but we could stay open as a food business.

“At that time, our customers put us on the map. They would come in regularly for sandwiches, cake or coffee throughout the pandemic.

Anna and Tim Worthington (Image: Public)

“About two years ago, we had the opportunity to place a bid with the council to open in Smithills Hall tearoom.

“Our customers were so loyal and followed us after we moved here.”

But Tim and Anna’s passion also fueled their success.

And are known for their fresh, delicious menu.

Anna said: “We bake all our own cakes and sausage rolls.

“And roast the meat for sandwiches.

“90 per cent of our menu is handmade.

“I think that's what people really latch on to.

“We’re not just opening packets and reheating or buying ready-made products.

“Our afternoon tea is also made from scratch.

“It’s not everywhere that can say that.

Afternoon tea (Image: Public)

“Local suppliers like Hunters the Bakers, Pretzel & Spelt and Barrons of Beef provide the bread and ham.

“We take pride in what we do.

“My husband looks after the coffee. He takes great care over it.

“He’s self-taught and trains our staff to make sure they know how to make a really good brew.

“We've just made our 40,000th cup since we opened.”

And they are famous for their afternoon tea.

Anna said: “It is really popular.

“People are buying it as a gift voucher for Christmas because it's a real treat have afternoon tea in such a wonderful setting as Smithills Hall.

“We certainly feel lucky to be here.

“It’s such a historic Bolton landmark.

Tim Worthington (Image: Public)

“Because it’s so busy here, we provide a way for people to get our food as a takeaway from outside.

“We call it the Cake Hole.

“People can knock and grab a drink or a snack through a little hatch in our window.

“We also have doggy sausage rolls and pupaccinos for dog walkers that come by.

“There’s a huge amount of dog walkers and families on a weekend coming just for a walk because it's free.

“It's such a beautiful grounds for that.

“So we get lots of people coming down for a coffee or a piece of cake on their way for a walk.”

Bake & Roast has been a labour of love. And it started with sacrifice.

Anna had always dreamed of working in the food industry and decided to take the leap.

Before starting the shop, she accepted a voluntary redundancy at the Royal Mail after working in sales and marketing.

And Tim then left his job as a sixth form teacher.

Anna said: “We both had previous careers but have always been passionate about food and drink.

“And this has become our little family business.

“We try to take care of everything, and customers seem to love it.

“As long as they're enjoying what we make, we will continue to do it.”

To vote for Bake & Roast pick up a copy of today's paper.