A historic gatehouse entrance to a Newcastle business centre has been transformed into a new cafe.
The Grade II listed gatehouse close to the Fleming building in Jesmond, has been redeveloped by owners Adderstone Group to create a base for new leisure company Burds.
Burds – named after its location on Burdon Terrace – is set to be a big hit with diners with its all-day brunch menu, created by local chef Ross Sinclair, formerly of Kith & Kin in Whitley Bay.
It is the brainchild of art graduate and former gallery curator Sarah Tod, who has reapplied her artistic flair to open the cafe and coffee shop, with a commitment to providing locally sourced food and drink.
The gatehouse property has undergone a sensitive refurbishment and extension, including restoration of the original brick walls, stone steps and exposed timber trusses. The café has seating within and also hosts an outside patio dining area.
Ms Tod, originally from Carlisle but now from Jesmond, said: “It has always been a passion of mine to set up a café like Burds. I loved my time with the gallery but when this opportunity arose, I knew I had to take it.
“We’ve made a point of using quality local suppliers including Pink Lane Coffee, Estate Tea Co, Charlotte’s Butchery and Block & Bottle, plus we are working with guest artisan patisseries and bakers including Pet Lamb Patisserie and Cake Stories to provide sweet treats.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the kind comments and positive feedback we’ve received so far and we look forward to welcoming lots of new customers in the coming weeks.”
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Adderstone Group’s commercial estates manager, Melanie Brown, said: “We’ve enjoyed being a part of the journey as we worked with Sarah to bring her vision for Burds to life. Our Projects team sensitively restored this Grade II listed building and added the patio terrace.
“We firmly believe Burds is an asset and, having sampled a few things on the menu already, I know it will go on to bring many new guests to this beautiful site.”