Nestled right on the picturesque harbour side of Whitehaven, The Harbour Master Coffee House and Bar is a charming blend of cafe comfort and lively bar atmosphere that invites locals and visitors alike to unwind and indulge. This spacious and welcoming venue is perfectly positioned to offer stunning views as you enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu and a warm, inclusive environment.
The Harbour Master delights with an appealing selection of both classic and inventive dishes that pair beautifully with their licensed drinks. Picture biting into a golden, crispy Ham and Cheese Toastie or savoring the irresistible savoriness of a Bacon Sarnie, both perfectly complemented by a smooth, velvety Vanilla Latte or a robust cappuccino. For those seeking something a little different, the crisp Pizza Toast and the delightfully tangy Patatas Bravas bring a playful twist to traditional cafe fare. Sweet tooths will find themselves enchanted by the rich, creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake or the indulgent Caramel Shortbread, while the Coffee Cake offers a perfect indulgence alongside a freshly brewed tea.
As one customer enthusiastically shared, “Where else could you get a crisp sandwich?!” showcasing the unique and thoughtful comfort food you'll enjoy here. Fans of classic British pub favourites will appreciate a refreshing Pint of Guinness perfectly paired with spicy Chilli Peanuts, creating a flavor harmony that keeps patrons coming back.
The atmosphere at The Harbour Master is as inviting as its menu. Regulars like Lianne C describe the venue as a “little gem” with “friendly staff, great prices, excellent views and dog friendly,” capturing the heartfelt warmth and community spirit that permeates the space. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee and cake or settling in for an evening drink, the attentive and friendly service guarantees that every guest feels right at home. Christopher Foster’s praise for the owner’s hospitality echoes the overall sentiment: a place where you’re genuinely welcomed.
Safety and comfort have also been thoughtfully considered, with ample room for Covid-safe social distancing without compromising the sociable buzz that makes this cafe-bar special. It’s clear that whether you’re meeting friends after a harbor stroll, grabbing a bite before or after shopping like Doreen’s partner, or simply seeking a peaceful moment with a hot chocolate topped with fluffy marshmallows, The Harbour Master Coffee House and Bar offers a memorable experience steeped in genuine charm and local flavour.
Lovely little bar with good beer and an owner who makes you feel very welcome.
This is my partner's favourite place for a drink whilst I go shopping. I usually join him later before we return home. Always feel welcome, great atmosphere and good service.
Quite a spacious cafe that serves licensed drinks as well. Situated on the harbour side and well prepared for the Covid social spacing. The coffee and cake was nice with pleasant service. Prices are reasonable as well.
A little gem that we stumbled on by accident. Dog friendly. Lovely food. Staff were wonderful.... so friendly. And where else could you get a crisp sandwich ?!
Love this place. Friendly staff, great prices, excellent views and dog friendly. We love to stop here for a bite to eat and a few drinks after a walk around the harbour. Always a lovely atmosphere here, giving a nice family feeling.
A quaint and chic cafe/pub with awesome decor and a nice atmosphere. I only stopped for a coffee, but I could have sat here for hours and watched the boats in the harbour and the world go by. You can sit inside or outside with plenty of tables and chairs. The coffee was also very nice.
Lovely local caffe with nice choice of delicious cakes, very reasonable prices. Vegan options available.
Edit: Thursday 9th November 2023: Still excellent. AND their toilet paper is QUALITY! Edit: Tuesday 8pm (20:00) Guinness and bacon butty, ideal. Lovely staff and great service, level access and outdoor seating may well suit wheelchair users. Dog friendly, and with fitting and interesting decor (pointing towards some of the history of Whitehaven / it's harbour with it's links to Ireland), Excellent views across the harbour, level access, nice food, selection of beers (Guinness, Stella, others), better hot chocolate than Greggs or McDonalds, also their lemonade on tap and cordial are both ok for those like me who cannot stand the taste of Aspartame, a snacks menu for people and a snacks menu for dogs (waterbowl for dogs outside near the entrance). Has tables and seating inside and out front on the harbour most of the day / early evening. A lovely place to watch the sunset. And they have a pub quiz 3rd Wednesday of the month. And they sell bacon butties. And their own-branded Spirit (available in bottles) is quite a tasty warmer-upper... And they stock XL Cheese crisps, locally very popular and with good reason. Photos are from five different visits.