THIS week we've asked readers: where the best place to go for a coffee and a natter in the Whitehaven area?

The lockdown has affected many things not least a casual cuppa, cake for a friendly catch-up.

There's many great cafe's in the vicinity where people could meet up - and with things slowly getting back to normal we know there are many readers who are keen to help local businesses get back on their feet when they re-open.

So here in no particular order, here are some of the best places in the county to get a coffee.

1 LA VENUE, LOWTHER STREET. WHITEHAVEN

The cafe is well missed by readers.

Bethany Curwen posted: "Comfortable and friendly environment, a home from home.

"Can't wait to try the new milkshakes."

Andrea Bell said: "Love it, gorgeous decor, friendly staff, value for money, dog friendly, delicious cakes and I recommend the hot chocolate with toasted marshmallow syrup."

2 THE STRAND, LOWTHER STREET. WHITEHAVEN

Joanne Eaves said: "I miss their caramel macchiato."

Karen Scott said: "Spotlessly clean.beautiful decor friendly staff.. Lovely coffee."

Scarlett Todhunter posted: "The strand 100 per cent.

"Gorgeous coffee and cakes, nice and chilled. Perfect for revising/studying or if u need some quiet time."

Martin Pattinson said: "Amazing modern clean space to chill with coffee a cake and a catch-up through the day and brilliant entertainment, music and mixture of alcoholic beverages for the evening, plus brilliant staff."

3 CROSS'S CAFE ,ROPER STREET, WHITEHAVEN

The cafe has been recommended for its warm welcome.

Andrea Wilkinson said: "Definitely Crosse's cafe, best coffee in town."

Christine Crewdson said: "Cross’s Cafe,its a brilliant cup of coffee and great food as well, it’s more like meeting your family when you go in."

4 CAFE WEST ,KING STREET, WHITEHAVEN

The cafe is popular with readers Jane Parker, Beryl Tremble and Jennifer Andrews.

Candice Regan said: "A fabulous cafe. My children always love a trip there."

5 ROOFTOP CAFE, DIXONS DEPARTMENT STORE, LOWTHER STREET, WHITEHAVEN

A popular and much missed choice among readers.

Pauline Bellini said: "For me it’s not so much the coffee/tea cafe but I can’t wait for the Dixon’s rooftop cafe opening again so I can meet up with my friends and family as we usually have a catch up whilst in town shopping."

Donna Simpson posted: "Dixons rooftop cafe the best with a lovely atmosphere.

"Plenty of space and lovely food. Staff are always welcoming and accommodating especially with my friends big double pram."

David Benjamin said: "Lomax Got to be Dixons for coffee and a bacon sandwich."

Gemma Turner said: "Dixons cafe has to be the best for food and friendliness. Myself and my friends. They can even accommodate all our kids and prams."