A well-known coffee shop will be opening up a new concept cafe at the historic Pump House after a lease was agreed with the council.

Wayland's Yard will open Kyndfolk after agreeing on a lease with Worcester City Council to open a cafe at the 19th-century Pump House building in Gheluvelt Park.

The Pump House building has been empty since December 2023 when the Duckworth Trust left the building closing down its cafe.

Worcester City Council said Wayland's Yard was the preferred option following a "highly competitive contest."

Joe Phillips, director of Yard Coffee Group who operate Wayland's Yard, said: "We’re really excited to introduce our new concept Kyndfolk to the people of Worcester.

“Kyndfolk will bring a fresh, welcoming vibe to the local community by reimagining the traditional coffee shop experience.

“With a focus on creating a space that feels like an extension of your neighbourhood, we’re all about offering something truly special that is grounded in bringing the community together.

“Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, meeting friends or making use of the event space for a parent and toddler class, yoga and wellness studio, or community project, we can’t wait for you to experience what we’re planning.”

Wayland's Yard has operated on Foregate Street in Worcester city centre since 2016.

Lynn Denham, leader of Worcester City Council, said: "The Pump House has been much missed since it closed last year. It was always a very popular destination, sat at the edge of one of our city’s beautiful award-winning parks and next to the river.

“So I am delighted to be able to announce that the City Council has found a local partner to reopen the building for a new era, creating a refreshed family-friendly destination that I am sure will prove to be successful and popular.

“With the new Kepax Bridge due to open later this year, the Pump House will be perfectly positioned to welcome the many more people who will be using that new river crossing to arrive in Gheluvelt Park.”

The Pump House's most recent tenant was Duckworth Worcestershire Trust who ran the building as an environmental centre but decided to not renew its lease last year, closing in September.