Barnard Castle cafe in running for national award

A Barnard Castle café owner who dreamed of running her own café from the age of eight is celebrating after an unexpected voicemail revealed her business had reached a national awards final.

Moments Café on Market Place, has been shortlisted for Café of the Year at The Food Awards England 2026, joining nine other cafés competing for the title.

Owner Carly Payne opened Moments in May 2018, fulfilling her childhood ambition.

Growing up baking for a large family with different dietary needs inspired her to create somewhere people could enjoy food without feeling left out.

Carly said: “I was getting on with my morning baking when I picked up a voicemail asking me to contact the awards organisers.

“At first I thought it could be a scam!

“I had no idea someone had nominated us, so discovering we’d been shortlisted was such a surprise.

“To whoever nominated us, thank you – it means the world to our team.

“Even if we don’t win, I cannot begin to express what this means to my eight-year-old self who dreamed of running a café.

“Now we’ve made it this far, we’d absolutely love to win!

“Every vote is appreciated, and we’re so grateful for everyone’s support.”

The family and dog friendly café serves homemade cakes, breakfasts, brunches, light lunches and afternoon teas, with many vegan and gluten-free options available.

Moments is a well loved place for locals and tourists alike, with strong ties to the community.

The café works with local suppliers, including McFarlane Butchers and Lonton Coffee, supports Storehouse foodbank and hosts a weekly Chatty Café session in a bid to tackle loneliness in the area.

The team is now asking customers and the wider community to support Moments by voting before the October 26 deadline.

Supporters can vote for Moments Café under category 15, Café of the Year, at surveymonkey.com/r/FoodAwardsEngland2026

The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony at the Grand Station, in Wolverhampton, on November 9.