Gather, a charming café nestled in the trendy suburb of Batheaston, is celebrating its tenth anniversary despite facing numerous challenges over the years. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and celebrity clientele, the family-owned café remains a beloved local gem.
Since opening its doors in 2015, Gather has attracted notable patrons including actress Jameela Jamil from The Good Place, Andrew Lincoln from The Walking Dead, comedian Josh Widdicombe, Grammy-winning singer James Blake, Mathew Horne of Gavin and Stacy, and Duran Duran bassist John Taylor. Co-owner Lucy Loran recalls the warmth and kindness of these visitors, highlighting the café’s unique appeal.
However, the journey hasn’t been without obstacles. Rising business rates, difficulty expanding their staff, and the café’s off-the-beaten-path location have all presented ongoing hurdles. While the secluded setting offers a quiet charm, it also limits exposure. “Many people in Bath still don’t know we’re here,” Lucy admits. “If we were better known, more customers would come.”
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Despite being constantly busy, the café’s operations are limited by staffing shortages. Lucy reveals that finding reliable chefs has become particularly challenging, noting that during the Covid period, none of the 30 interviewed candidates followed through. Presently, Gather operates Tuesday through Saturday, from 9am to 3pm, with the kitchen closing at 2:30pm, awaiting the day they can extend hours once new staff join.
Gather’s dedication and quality have earned it rave reviews, boasting a 4.6-star rating from over 170 Google reviews. The café also occasionally features live music and hopes to expand such events in the future as part of their tenth-anniversary plans.
As they mark a decade in business, Lucy and her team remain grateful for loyal customers and celebrity endorsements alike. Yet, the survival and growth of a beloved independent café in today’s retail environment continue to require resilience and passion.