An outdoor enthusiast, Pete Sparks’ hospitality adventure began working in youth hostels where he picked up an assortment of useful skills and experience from front-of-house, cleaning and laundry through to DIY, maintenance, gardening and, of course, cooking.
The history
Widening his experience in the service sector, Pete went on to work as an F&B manager in hotels and managed various cafés before deciding that it was time to pursue his own Everest.
“It was always a dream at the back of my mind to one day open my own place and I knew I wanted it to be connected to the great outdoors,” says Pete. The café he eventually found is in a quiet corner on the eastern edge of the Peak District and perfectly placed for outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the local area, but unfortunately, the business was a slow burner initially. With the Tour de France visiting Yorkshire in 2014 and the route passing the café, innovative Pete painted the café in its standout King of the Mountain design for the big occasion.
“The previous café was only open a few days a week, as was the pub nearby, so if people were heading our way, they generally brought sandwiches and came prepared. It took a while to get the message out there but once word-of-mouth started spreading, we quickly became a key destination on the
map for cyclists and walkers,” enthuses Pete.
“We offer quality homemade breakfasts, pies, quiches, sandwiches, soups, toasties and plenty of cake and I can assure you, it’s all worth getting on your bike for. Our giant stuffed Yorkshire puddings are our latest hot seller, but we also have a fantastic offering for vegans, vegetarians, coeliacs and those with allergies.”
Keeping it local
When it comes to local suppliers, the business is blessed with an array on its doorstep. “Our menu has a very traditional feel, and our incredible local butchers, bakers, growers, dairy farmers and egg suppliers provide our food with a clear identity. It means visitors don’t just get to see, smell, hear and enjoy the beauty of the Peak District but they’re able to taste it as well through our menu,” he continues.
“However, it’s no good having stunning local produce without the quality seasonings, spices, sauces, tinned products, staples and sides. This is where Country Range come in as the portfolio provides outstanding choice, flavour, consistency and value. The Gourmet Fish Fingers and Baked Beans in particular are fantastic.
Nearly 20 years after I started properly in the kitchen, I still get a buzz, especially short order cooking during a busy breakfast rush, so I’m not ready to get on my bike just yet. The café is very much like a home and the guests have become family, but maybe a few weekends off would be nice in the next few years. The aim as always is to keep improving and moving with the trends without losing our personality and character.”
Find out more
Find out more information about Bank View Café here.