Customers bid fond farewell to Cumbrian ice cream shop after 94 years trading

Egremont: It’s a sad day for ice cream lovers. Hartley’s Ice Cream, a staple in the community for 94 years, has closed its doors. Customers from near and far are sharing their favorite memories of this iconic shop.

Hartley’s had shops in Egremont and St Bees, and they were known for supplying delicious ice cream across Cumbria and the Lake District. The owners announced the closure this week, citing unseasonal summer weather and rising costs as the main reasons.

People are really feeling the loss. Many have shared how Hartley’s was a part of their lives, with some even coming from Canada just to enjoy their ice cream. It’s clear that this shop held a special place in the hearts of many.

One customer, Kim, talked about how she always had Hartley’s ice cream ready for her family and friends when they visited. She said it was a favorite, especially the rich vanilla flavor. It’s heartbreaking for her to see it go.

Another fan, Gemma, reminisced about her childhood summers, enjoying a large 99 with red sauce. She wishes she had known that her last visit would be the final one.

People are sharing stories of how Hartley’s was part of their family traditions. Annie mentioned how her family often bought ice cream at the St Bees beach cafe, creating lasting memories there.

Jayne, whose kids worked at Hartley’s, praised the owners for being kind and generous. The Richardson family has been a big part of the community, and their absence will be felt deeply.

Even Lena, a former deputy mayor, reflected on how Hartley’s has been a part of Egremont’s history for as long as she can remember. It’s a significant loss for the town.

Hartley’s Ice Cream started back in 1931 when Grayson Hartley decided to make ice cream instead of running a sawmill. It’s amazing how this little shop grew to become a beloved local treasure.

As the community bids farewell, it’s clear that Hartley’s Ice Cream will always be remembered for the joy it brought to so many.