A FARM'S barn that has been converted into a café is opening today (Wednesday) in the Lake District.

Grove Barn in Stockghyll Lane, on the outskirts of Ambleside, is opening its doors to the public at 9am after being in development for the past three years.

The café is part of Grove Cottages, a four-stone holiday cottage owned by farmer Max Howard and managed by Sarah Moss for the last 12 years.

Sarah said the views from Grove Barn are 'second to none.'

She said: "It is surrounded by fields, farmland and you can just see the fells.

"We have a nice patio area at the front with seating that captures the sun all day when it is out.

"It is quite a rustic barn. We didn't make it modern inside as we have kept some of the stone walls and the natural features inside."

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The café is split into three levels; the ground floor contains the counter and the bar serving draught beer, wine and various alcoholic drinks, the middle floor provides more seating and the top floor offers space for a private dinner or other special occasions. 

Grove Barn will offer homemade food, such as breakfasts, lunches, cakes and cold meals, with options for those with dietary requirements, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan.

Food options will range from full English breakfast to sandwiches and sharing platters.

Sarah said there had been a lot of interest from locals in launching the business.

The manager said: "It has taken quite a while to get to this point so I'm very happy with the outcome.

"It is a fantastic building, and as we are located on a walker's route from Ambleside, locals are excited and waiting for us to open the doors."

Grove Barn will open every day from 9am until 5pm.

No parking is available.