HERE are four of some of the best independent bakeries for pastries and cakes in Hexham and the Tyne Valley, according to our readers.

Among those mentioned were Made with Love and Plants and El Bakes.

The Pudding Parlour, Prudhoe was recommended by Rebecca Bewick, Carol Small, Tasmin Small, Kate Smith, Rach Quince, Karen Robinson and David Carter.

The bakery offers a range of American-inspired desserts, lucky dip boxes and custom-made birthday cakes.

A celebration cake made by The Pudding ParlourA celebration cake made by The Pudding Parlour (Image: Rosie Gregory)

One Facebook review said: "Absolutely beautifully decorated and flavoured cake, opted for the strawberry milkshake design and it tasted amazing, seriously one of the best cakes I’ve ever tasted."

A birthday cake made by The Pudding ParlourA birthday cake made by The Pudding Parlour (Image: Julie Slack)

El Bakes, based in Haydon Bridge, was another top recommendation by readers, including Haley Stokoe, Lara Dungworth and Anna Dodwell.

The business, which offers bespoke brownies, cupcakes, tray bakes and treat boxes, has a regular stall at Hexham Farmers' Market.

A happy customer posted on Facebook: "Would definitely recommend and will definitely be ordering more goodies."

Wilde Bakes, Haltwhistle was recommended by Elley Rayne and Greg Irwin.

The business creates bespoke cake orders, provides tray bakes to local coffee shops and retail spaces, and attends local markets.

"I had two bite-sized nibbles at late-night shopping in Haltwhistle and what a delight they were. One was a biscoff slice and the other was a cornflake brownie and they tasted amazing," one satisfied customer said.

Tracy Irwin commented: "Delicious. Gluten-free and Dairy-free too."

Hexham-based Made with Love and Plants was nominated by Janie French and Emma Sutcliffe.

"My vote goes to Made with Love and Plants Jen is a genius," Janie said.

Plant-based, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan goods are on offer at this bakery, which creates treat boxes and party platters plus celebration cakes.

"I bought myself a treat box with four yummy cakes in and wow they were all amazing. I couldn't stop eating them, I ate all of them myself within a day," one Facebook review said.

Also mentioned by readers were Grants Corbridge, Bake Me Happy Sweet Treats, Baked by ashley, Blossom Bakes, The Yellow Bird Cafe, Billy Bells, Bonnie’s and Dotty Buttercream.