An iconic cafe is getting back to what it does best – with fans even flying in to pay them a visit.

Hartside Cafe on Hartside summit has been a hugely popular destination for years and the original building was destroyed by a devastating fire last year.

Since the heartbreaking news of its closure, a buyer came forward with the hope of resurrecting the much-loved beauty spot, popular with motorcyclists, supercar owners and cyclists.

Last year the blaze ripped through the cafe, which sits at one of Cumbria’s highest points.

Images show the walls were all that remained of the Hartside Cafe, at the top of the A686 Hartside Pass, near Alston.

Firefighters from Alston, Brampton and Penrith spent several hours at the scene tackling the blaze.

The site was bought by Penrith-based property developer Dawn Dixon who hopes to redevelop in time for early next year.

With the stunning views that give the feeling of being on top of the world, it is a magnet for daytrippers and the new owner could not believe how beautiful the views are. “It’s magical here," she said. "I can’t wait to get things started and get put the plans into the council.

“Since I purchased Hartside me and my children have got to work demolishing what was left after the fire and tried to get back to ground zero.

“When the pandemic hit we had to stop what we were doing, which was hard, but we posted on our social media that we were going to open a catering van and it was viewed by more than 70,000 people. The love for this place is unreal.

“The first time we opened we were so busy we had supercars, motorbikes and even three Atoms, the fastest cars in the world. The day just went by in a blink of an eye.

“While we were busy the last thing we expected to arrive was a helicopter. The chap flew in and got a sausage sandwich.

“To think this place means so much he would fly in for one" It was very dramatic and theatrical."

The cafe has been a focal point for generations and the Hartside community was heartbroken at the thought of losing it. But the new owner is in talks with Eden District Council to submit plans for the re-development. “We’re hoping to take advantage of the views as much as we can with lots of glass," she said. "No matter what the weather is like, you have a beautiful view. When you’re here you get an overwhelming feeling of welcome – I’m so pleased with how well we have been received.”

The developer also plans to install a helipad to help the air ambulance, a charity they have raised funds with past auctions.