This September, John Watt & Son, Carlisle’s iconic coffee roaster and tea merchant, will celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 160 years in business. Established in 1865, the family-run firm has become a cornerstone of the city’s high street and a cherished part of its cultural fabric.

From its origins as a Victorian grocer to its present-day role as a specialist in ethically sourced coffee and fine teas, John Watt & Son has remained true to its founding values of quality, integrity, and community connection. The business continues to thrive thanks to its loyal customer base, its commitment to sustainability, and its passion for bringing people together – one cup at a time.

“This anniversary is not just about longevity,” says Managing Director Peter Johnston. “It’s about the generations of customers, staff, and suppliers who’ve helped shape our story. We’re proud to still be roasting coffee in Carlisle, serving our community, and evolving with the times while honouring our heritage.”

The brand’s 2017 expansion introduced a dedicated Roastery on Blackfriars Street, purpose-built for large-scale wholesale roasting and supply. Over time, the company has deepened its ties to local heritage and culture – operating the café at the Cumbria Museum of Military Life since 2017 and taking on the Cakes & Ale café from 2022.

Under the direction of Peter and Carol Johnston, John Watt & Son has embraced contract catering, including new operations at Penrith Golf Club launched in late 2024. Their partnership with Carlisle United Football Club has been especially impactful: from a bespoke coffee blend and on-site catering to the revival of the beloved “Brunton Pasty” and 2025 kit sponsorship. The business has also played a key role in expanding the Club’s hospitality offerings under the stewardship of the Piatak family.

Anniversary Celebrations

To mark the occasion, there will be a number of activities happening throughout September and two special anniversary blends – one coffee, one tea – have been launched.

Named after the original home of John Watt & Son, their coffee blend, Glovers Row, reaches back to 1865, when Carlisle’s Glovers Row bustled with craftspeople, merchants, and makers. It was here, in the heart of a community rooted in skill and tradition, that their first blends were born.

Their dark roast is a sensory tribute to those origins capturing the warmth of a small shop built on craftsmanship and connection. It’s more than a morning pick-me-up – it’s a journey back to where it all began.

The commemorative tea blend shares a tale that has crossed the Atlantic. While many remember the White Star Line’s most famous ship, the anniversary tea blend honours a lesser-known voyage.

The story goes: aboard a White Star Line steamer, a seasick passenger said that she would “be all right if I only had a cup of good tea”. A fellow traveller, travelling to New York with a half chest of John Watt’s finest, obliged – and the rest of the voyage was smooth sailing.

That moment of comfort inspired the name of this second anniversary blend: A Good Cup of Tea. Smooth, soothing, and steeped in tradition, it celebrates the restorative power of a well-made brew.

In addition to these celebratory blends, the team is also inviting customers to contribute to be part of the story by sharing photos, anecdotes, and reflections on social media using the hashtag #JW160Years.

A Family Affair

This year also marks a second, more personal anniversary: ten years since Peter and Carol Johnston, along with their daughter Naomi, took over the running of the business. Their stewardship has seen John Watt & Son flourish – blending tradition with innovation and deepening its ties to the community.

“Taking on a business with such history was both a privilege and a responsibility,” says Carol Johnston. “We’ve worked hard to honour its legacy while making sure it continues to thrive in a modern world. It’s been a decade of learning, laughter, and a lot of coffee!”

A Future Rooted in Values

As it looks ahead, John Watt & Son remains committed to ethical sourcing, environmental responsibility, and supporting local initiatives. The business continues to collaborate with community organisations and independent producers, ensuring its legacy is one of positive impact as well as great taste.

So, as we raise a cup to the past, John Watt is brewing a bright future – rooted in values, steeped in community, and always served with heart.