Cosy Coffee Shops

Pickwicks Caffe, 25 – 27 Broad Street, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2DJ
From Simon: “It has a wonderful atmosphere and good coffee.”

Lucias Cafe, 36 Dyer Street, Cirencester, Glos, GL7 2PF.
From Mark: “Independant cafe with great coffee and friendly service.”

Same But Different, Bath.
From Tim: “Awesome staff, friendly atmosphere and good coffee. Can’t beat it.”

The Yellow Canary Cafe, 12 Fore Street in St Ives, Cornwall
From Ylenia: “Fabulous coffee. They really have a passion for great coffee and it shows!!”

Unnamed coffee shop in Bishops Cleeve, nr Cheltenham.
From Anna: “Hello! I would like to recommend a local coffee shop that has just opened in Bishops Cleeve, a large village just North of Cheltenham. It is fabulous! Light and airy, friendly staff and fabulous fair trade coffee. Give it a whirl!”

Mangos Coffee shop, Exmouth
From Simon: “friendly independant coffee shop in Exmouth town centre, serving fairtrade coffee, the best Latte in exmouth”

Also recommended by Tammie: “If ever you make it down to Devon there’s a lovely coffee shop in Exmouth called Mangos Coffee Shop (Church Street). It serves really delicious Fairtrade coffee and lots of yummy snacks and cakes, definitely worth a visit!”

Monks Yard coffee shops, close to Ilminister, Somerset
From David: “There is an excellent new business centre close to Ilminister on the A303. It is called The Monks’ Yard and you can see more about it on http://www.themonksyard.co.uk/ The coffee shop is very welcoming with pleasant ambiance.

Mipo coffee shop at the Old Potato Yard, Lydeway, Devizes.
From Juliette: “Woodburning stove, lovely lunches and naughty hot chocolates. Also contains a shop selling homewares etc made from recycled things.” http://www.mipo.co.uk/

Lashings, opposite St Augustines Parade, Bristol
From VL: “The coffee is nice and smooth in there (pet hate – bitter coffee!) and the staff are lovely..they do provide papers as far as I know”.

Barista, off Victoria Street, Bristol
From VL: “Is always very busy with a good mix of people.”

Coffee #1, a small independent chain based in South Wales and Bristol.
From Nancy: “Some small and cosy, some busy and bustling. Visit http://www.coffee1.co.uk/ for details of locations.”

Woodruffs, Stroud
From Suzi: “the first organic cafe in england“

Mills Cafe, Stroud
Recommended by Suzi.

Smiths Cafe, Larkhall, Bath
From Dee: “Serves excellent coffees and homemade meals. Very cosy, friendly staff and is used mainly by those who live around it or know about it. Would recommend a visit or more. Great place to meet up with friends!!”

The Bridge Coffee shop Bath
From Mark: “Great coffee fantastic cakes and the best view in Bath. Pulteney Bridge “

Cafe Irie, 38 Fore Street, Newquay, Cornwall, TR71LP
Recommended by Jon.

The Dancing Goat, Ashley Cross, Poole
From Andy: “Hi, love the website! If you are ever in Poole (near Bournemouth) drop
in to the Dancing Goat Ashley Cross Poole. I can give you the exact
address and opening times if you make it. Origin beans, cosy and top
flat whites.“

Cafe Boscanova, Boscombe
From Joe: “When back from your travels you must check out cafe boscanova in
Boscombe. There’s a great food menu but the coffee is absolutely top
notch and atmosphere and service that will transport you to another
place! Happy travels”

Cafe Boscanova is also recommended by Luke.

New England Coffee House, 1 Digbeth St, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1BN
A small coffee shop in a listed building roasting its own coffee and using proper local milk. Sounds great – can’t wait to visit!

Cafe Licious in Swindon
Recommended by Barry.

Pau Brasil is also recommended by Marc.

And Paul Brasil is also recommended by Jordan.

Badgers Tea House, 13 North Street, Alfriston, East Sussex BN26 5UG.
From Christopher: “They do real proper Italian coffee, haome made cakes to die for (!) and freshly made sandwiches etc for lunch. It is worth a visit.”

The High Street Cafe, 153, High St, Southampton, Hampshire, SO14 2BT
From Sam: “There’s a little cafe in Southampton called ‘The High Street Cafe’. While it may sound like the venue is in the thick of it, the part of town this cafe lies in is called ‘Below Bar’ (an area of town south of the city’s medieval Bargate). The cafe is normally quiet, cosy, well-priced and serves an excellent Americano.”

Caffe Macchiato, Union Street, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU11 1EG.
From Maria: “The owner, Jacob has created a great atmosphere with low lighting, comfy seating, great coffee (speaking as one who doesn’t usually like it!) and excellent food. You can get a takeaway but it is good to sit outside under the canopy and watch the world go by. They are also open early evenings.”

CJs, East Grinstead, West Sussex.
From Hana: “Situated on the old High Street, it’s in a very quaint English part of Sussex and has a wonderful atmosphere and a good selection of coffees, other drinks and food. It’s a favourite hang out for me and my friends (all in our late twenties – early thirties) but also attracts younger & older adults. I see families there too to a lesser extent. I live in a neighbouring town twenty minutes drive away but take visiting friends there because it’s so cosy and welcoming. They’ve got a website: www.cjs-coffeebar.com “

Huffkins in Burford and Witney, Oxfordshire.
From Richard: “Simply superb coffee and home baked everything!”

Huffkins has now been visited – read the entry here.

The Coffee Pot, Midhurst, West Sussex
From Jean: “Great coffees made from fairtrade organic coffee beans (I think the beans are Peruvian). Relexaing atmosphere.“

Georgina’s, Oxford
From Michelle: ”in the covered market (off the high street). in my opinion the best latte in town must also be said that there are a few cafe style places in the covered market but this one is definitely my favourite“

Combibos, Oxford
From Michelle: “on the square by the coach station (goerge street) they do milk steamers with syrup shots which are really scrummy“
Combibos has now been visited: read the entry here

The Grand Cafe, High Street, Oxford

The Magic Cafe off Cowley Road (Magdalen Road), Oxford

The Rose, High Street, Oxford
From Michelle: “always looks lovely but never actually been“

Picnic, Reading
Recommended by Marc.

Also recommended by Lehnert: “In the city centre next to Starbucks on Broad street. It’s cosy, very small, and the people are very welcoming (fair trade tea and coffee, yummy homemade cakes aso)”

And also recommended by Renie, aka “Large Decaf Soya Mocha with 2 Sweetners to go girl”: “it’s just at the bottom of the high street. It is a tiny little coffee shop run by some great guys. It’s the kinda coffee shop where they know your face & your drink!!!!. Fairtrade/yummy homemade cakes and healthy salads. They are fairly new open about a year if not less and have managed to survive (due undoubtedly to there great customer service and community vibe) even surrounded quite literally next to Starbucks, opposite Costa and across the road from Cf Republic and Pret!”

Picnic has now been visited: read the entry here

Global Café, London Street, Reading
From Lehnert: “next to the Great expectations hotel. It’s part of the RISC organization, offers fair trade products, and the couches are very inviting!”

Global Café is also recommended by Jordan.

Moondogs, Oxford Road, Reading
From Marc: ”I’ve just found another coffee shop in Reading, it’s called MOONDOGS, it’s on the Oxford Road and it is brilliant. Original artwork on the walls, fantastic music and the service is next to none. That’s before I rave on about the homemade cakes and top coffee!”
Moondogs has now been visited: read the entry here

Hot Gossip, Friday Street, Henley on Thames
Recommended by Judi, who also recommends…

Bloc 2, Market Square, Henley on Thames

Carmel Square, Pond Approach, Holmer Green, High Wycombe, HP15 6RW
From David: “New coffee shop which is excellent. Good coffee, home made cakes, outstanding breakfasts and a very cosy atmosphere.”

Charlie’s Deli & Coffee House, Gatwick Road,  Manor Royal, Crawley
From Robert: “A great coffee shop in Crawley – really good strong coffee that tastes sharp and fresh not burnt like Starbucks. Looks good but also serves sandwiches, baguettes and even breakfast – and I recommend this on a Sunday morning after a few beers on Saturday night. mainly caters to the local business community for morning coffee and lunch. Good service and friendly. Privately owned by lady who works there every day – even got me my own espresso cup – hows that for service!!!”

Various in Brighton…
From Rich, lover of punctuation: “Hello! i noticed no posts in Brighton? ive just opened marwood studio’s.A tucked away place in the heart of Brighton,52 ship street to be exact.decorated from found and donated bits.mostly skip dipping.Doors are tables etc.100ft secret Garden.and 2 floors of startup buisness’s. plus if you make it to brighton there are lots of lovly coffeeshops to check out.33,taylor st,ground,the red roaster etc.please come and visit!  see what you think.”

Culinary Aspirations, Cookham, Berkshire
From Cath: ”A tiny and cosy coffee shop. Almost hidden, in a narrow arcade off the High Street, it has friendly service and filling food. We chose made-to-order sandwiches and followed up with chunky portions of home-baked cake – lots to choose from! A perfect pause in a Thames-side walk.”

Hot Gossip coffeehouse, 7 Friday Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

Greens Cafe, Bonn Square, Oxford
From Scott: “I’m living in Oxford and I’d like to reccomend Greens Cafe (the one on
Bonn Sq). There are two and they’re both really nice.  I find the
coffee ok and the staff friendly and attentive.  I’d like to seem them
represented here.“

Home Ground, Old High Street, Folkestone, Kent
From Casey: “It opened in 2009 and serves freshly ground Illy coffee.
It’s always relaxed and they’ve got free newspapers. There’s a
modern feel to the place but the building dates back to the 17th Century
with a lit-up well that you can look down in the main seating area.
Definitely worth a try. www.homegroundcb.co.uk“

Garden Coffee Shop, London (near Covent Garden)
From Tony: “Garden coffee shop in Bedford Street, London (near Covent Garden). Is an independent, small place that does great organic, fair trade coffee”

London’ Monmouth Coffee Company, London
From Grant: “No mention of London’ Monmouth Coffee Company??? easily the best coffee shop and roaster/retailer in the London, arguably the entire UK!”  (in Covent Garden and Borough).
Don’t worry Grant, this coffee shop has now been visited! Read the entry here

The Coffee House at Presence, 19-21 The Parade, Watford, WD17 1LQ
From Paul: “Watford’s finest coffee bar! Independent, set up and run by local people for local people. And we have lots of sofas!”

Flat White (Brewer St., Soho)

Flat White is also recommended by Rosie: “Check out Flat White in Soho, http://www.flat-white.co.uk/ . Great flat whites and general kiwi charm. Reminds me a lot of NZ”

Flat White is also recommended by Lou.

Flat White is also recommended by Reid and Lana: “They’re in Berwick Street and these guys and girls are dedicated to their coffee. This place is fantastic!  Casual and relaxed but usually busy and bustling.  You\’ll meet a lot of New Zealanders there, and we’re not all loud drunks as you might have expected!  The coffee is usually as good as my favourite coffee shops in NZ, and they have some Kiwi favourites on the menu too, like toasted banana bread. Make sure you check them out if you\’re ever in London again.”

Thanks everyone.  Flat White has now been visited.

Fernandez & Wells (Poland St., Soho)
Fernandez & Wells has now been visited: read the entry here

Chez’s Cafe & Trattoria, 48 Crown Road, St Margarets, TW1 3EH
From Sue: “Chez’s cafe is a classic greasy spoon cafe by day and a trattoria by night. Its run by Italians and it does the *best* coffee I’ve ever had, served by the most cheerful man in South West London!”

The Oval Lounge. 24 Clapham Road, London, SW9 0JG
From Matt: “Hi, don’t know if this counts or not as it’s actually a bar, but runs cafe style during the day. Several of our customers have commented to us on the quality of our coffee offering.“

Brioche, 238 West End Lane, West Hampstead, London NW6
From Roger: “the best coffee in north west london, lovely staff, great ambiance heaving at week-ends..fantastic place”

The Village Cafe, 92 Belsize Lane, London
From Cathy: “excellent value for Belsize Park!!! Steaming mug of tea only £1, home-made cakes, crumbly flapjacks & a cosy environment for reading the paper!!! Purrrrfect”

16mm, 19 d’arblay street, Soho, London
From Pimentel: “you guys must go to a place called 16mm in soho ,london ,19 d’arblay street ,the coffee is very good and the place cosy like a little oasis on the midle of soho.they web site is www.16mm-soho.co.uk i do recomend“

All About Coffee, Leather Lane, Holborn, London, EC1
From Sarah: “The service is less than perfect, and at times odd. That said, it does a wide variety of different types of the best coffees in the world, done however you like. There is also a sandwich deli and a few lonely looking pastries on a warming plate, but the cofee is definitely the main event. I would recommend a Blue Mountain or Papa New Guinea cappuccino if your ever around that area.”

Henry’s, 80 Piccadilly, W1J 8HX, London
Not independent; an upmarket chain of seven. Recommended by Chasandra.

Tomtom Coffee House, 114 Ebury St., Belgravia, London
From Ed: “We have just opened a fantastic specialist coffee shop in Belgravia, ‘Tomtom Coffee House’ 114 Ebury st. just down the road from the Victoria coach station. It would be a pleasure to have you visit.”

Also recommended by Tom: “please check out tomtom coffee house in belgravia, london, sw1. gorgeous little coffee shop serving their own roasted single estate beans from around the world – super fresh and altogether fantastic“

Soko Coffee, St Albans
From Sue: “I go there everyday before I commute into London. www.sokocoffee.co.uk Top notch coffee, best in the area by far! You must go!”

LJ Coffee House, Soho
From David: “100% independent coffee shop in the heart of Soho. They serve a fantastic coffee hand roasted in London. It’s not pretentious. Is cosy with some fantastic leather sofa’s and has amazing staff!! Plus they use real chocolate flakes on top of their cappuccinos!!“

LJ also recommended by Anthony: “LJ Coffee House on Winnett Street in Soho London does by far the best coffee in London! I’ve never had a cappucino that looked or tasted like the ones you get in Milan or Rome. Fantastic! I believe its from a small London based Roastery. Well worth a look/review.”

LJ Coffee House has now been visited.

BeanAboutTown.com, coffee cart found in and around London
From Olivier: “I would like to recommend BeanAboutTown.com mobile coffee base in and around London serving Monmouth Coffee and great Barista…”

Coffee Cubse in Colchester
Recommended by Debi.

The Corner House, Wivenhoe near Colchester, Essex
From Nigel: “serves Monmouth coffee and all staff recieve barista training, it has a wonderful relaxed ambiance in an beautiful old building and is open 7 days a week from 8am till 6pm weekdays and 9am till 6.30pm weekends.”

Javabean Coffee, 128 Gloucester Road, London, SW7 4SF
From Geoff: ”I’ve got a small coffee shop in gloucester arcade, 128 gloucester Road. We’ve been open over a year now, we roast our own coffee onsite and any time your around, let me know in advance and you can try our coffee on the house” http://www.java-bean.net/

The Market Coffee House off Spitalfields Market, London
From Jeremy: “Very good. Really, very good. I recommend it to you to add to your list after trying – I don’t think you’ll be disappointed“

The Coffee House at Presence, Watford
From Catherine: “It’s fantastic. The Hot Chocolates are the best in the UK, it’s relaxing, comfy and the staff are really friendly. The sofas are the best and i could spend endless days there with a good book and a hot choc with marshmeelows.”

Double Shot Coffee Company, Covent Garden, London
From Mark: “You should check out double shot coffee co in covent garden,london. Great coffee and a superb location for a pre-theatre visit. www.doubleshotcoffee.co.uk“

Vida e Caffe, Golden Square, London
Recommended by Grant.

Utopia, Southend on Sea
From Linda: “utopia in southend on sea is a must.they roast all there own coffee in the shop and it is amazing.”

Atticus Bar, 113 – 115 Three Shires Oak Road, Bearwood, Birmingham, B67 5BT
From the Atticus bar: “In the heart of Bearwood, Birmingham lies a contemporary, welcoming cafe bar serving alongside coffee – cakes and pastries, weekend hot organic home cooked food and delivering comedy nights, quiz nights and a roster of DJ’s with a chilled, funk and soul vibe.”

The Art Cafe, Bromsgrove
From Tim: “The Art Cafe in Bromsgrove serves a range of excellent coffees and is far preferable to the Costa (Costa fortune cafe on the high street). I am not connected in any way with the shop but value my town and high street.”

Dolphin Cafe, Towcester, Northamptonshire
From Sarah: “The coffee is great and the place is a little oasis.”

Dolphin Café has now been visited.

The Coffee Roaster, Stratford Road, Shirley Village Centre, Birmingham (recommended by “Brum Coffee Sipper”)

Sainte Caffe, St. Paul’s Square, Birmingham
From Brum Coffee Sipper: “Birmingham’s equivalent to Flat White / Monmouth“.

And from anonymous: “The best coffee shop i’ve been and even seen in Birmingham is a little indi place called Saint Caffe in St. Paul Square. Its own and run by a lovely couple; Lucy and Geoff and the service they offer is fantastically friendly and cool, its like a sharing of similar minds. It has all the standards of a corperately own coffee shop, bespoke decor, *the* best coffee in Birmingham however the service is very individualise and genuine which makes a refreshing change from what you get at starbucks and the “i just work here” offerings.”

Eastside Cafe, Digbeth Birmingham (corner of Coventry St and Merident St)
From Brum Coffee Sipper: “Serve Monmouth blend from a La Spaziale machine. Beautiful!” — big thanks to the anonymous Brum Coffee Sipper for all these excellent suggestions. I’m looking forward to going back to Brum one day and checking them out.

The Floating Coffee Company, Brindleyplace, Birmingham
From Miranda: “When you’re in beautuful Brum you can’t beat The Floating Coffee Company on board George (a canal boat) at Water’s Edge, Brindleyplace (walk through the Convention Centre/Symphony Hall concourse and it’s on the canal just outside.) Their coffee is some of the best I’ve tasted and, while it’s a little snug for room inside the canal boat, the menu is great, too. It’s a great place to get a completely different view of Birmingham - enjoying your coffee whilst ducks and swans float past your window at eye level! If you get the chance to go back to Birmingham it’s worth checking out “.  — Thanks Miranda. The Floating Coffee Co has now been visited — click here to read the entry.

Hudson’s, Colmore Row near Victoria Square, Birmingham
From Ed: “pleasantly upmarket“

Cafe Cabana opposite the Fighting Cocks, Mosely Village, Birmingham

Maison Mayci, Poplar Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham

Piccadilly Classics Coffee Shop, 7-8 Piccadilly Buildings, Sheep St, Kettering, Northants.
Opening soon (as of June 2008)
From Sharon: “Please visit piccadilly classics coffee shop.sheep street.kettering,…. it is the best!!!!!!!!”

Caffé Vergnano 1882, Warwick
From Simon: “An absolute must for any coffee lover or any website about coffee shops is the beautiful Caffé Vergnano 1882, in Warwick. Not only is the building and internal fit-out beautiful, but the actual coffee blend is exceptional. What on earth this absolute gem is doing tucked away in Warwick, I’ve no idea? Vergnano are coffee roasters in Italy and have espresso coffee bars throughout Europe (and two in London). I heard a rumour one is on its way to Birmingham? Can’t wait!!”

Nook Corner, Anstey, Leicestershire.
From Elizabeth: “The owner is passionate baout his coffee, experimenting with strength, and beans. He also does great \’Latte Art\’. Always a warm welcome for everyone.”

Pastelaria Portuguesa, Warwick
From Patricia: “In September we opened a traditional Portuguese coffee shop (Pastelaria Portuguesa)in Warwick.  Our pastries, bread, soups and pizza slices are all made daily by our Portuguese chef-manager Helder. We are already a big hit with the locals and Portuguese within travelling distance.  Its the kind of place where you really feel welcome and included. Lots of gossip and chat between customers who have never met before and that warm and respectful service style which is very typical of family owned Pastelarias.”

Bohemia, 23 Oaktree Lane, Selly Oak, Birmingham
From Sam: “Delicious fairtrade coffee, good smoothies and lots of scrummy food too. wifi. Friendly atmosphere. Open in the evening too.”

Cha Cha Cha, 3 Northwestern Arcade, Birmingham B25LH
From P: “There is now a cosy upmarket Tea Lounge called Cha Cha Cha in Birmingham city centre that is an exciting and refreshing alternative.”

Urban Coffee Company, 30 Church Street, Birmingham, B3 2NP
From Simon: “a nice place with great coffee“. http://www.urbancoffee.co.uk/

Ardens, Leamington Spa
From Brooke: “Hi there, a coffee shop called ardens has opened in Leamington spa they serve the best tea and coffee in Leamington and the make the best cappuccinos i have ever tasted. the best thing is it’s not part of any chain!”

Caffé Vergano 1882, Birmingham
From Darren: “You need to visit the new Caffe Vergnano 1882 coffee bar in Birmingham’s Mailbox!”

Plaza Coffee, near the Housman statue, Bromsgrove
From Anthony: “A very friendly
place with a nice selection of cakes too. It also serves Fairtrade.”

Bird on the Rock Tearooms, Clungunford, nr Craven Arms, SY7 0PX, Shropshire
From Many: “You must try Bird on the Rock Tearooms, http://www.restaurant-guide.com/bird-on-the-rock-tearoom.htm.  I was taken there earlier this year by a friend.  We had a splendid lunch, and the drive to it is beautiful.“

Coffee at 43 also recommended by Jacqui: “Absolutely delightful coffee shop with georgous home made cakes and lovely lovely staff”

Stray’s Coffee, 18 Middlegate, Newark, Notts, NG24 1AJ.
From Tom: “This café is attached to a small but extremely efficient book shop of the same name. My wife, who is Swiss and who is extremely demanding when it comes to coffee, says they serve the best expresso she’s ever tasted. Service: efficient and friendly. Cakes and biscuits: home-made. Background music: jazz. A must if you’re in Newark – and only two minutes’ walk from Starbuck’s.”

Strays has now been visited – read the entry here.

Northern Tea Merchants, Chesterfield.
From Mike: “It is a bit out of town on the Peak district side. The coffee is fine but the range of teas and coffees to buy is amazing. Nice people too.”

Lee Rosy’s Teas, Nottingham city centre (opposite the Broadway Cinema)
From Leslie: “Nice cozy shop with wonderful cakes and good coffee and other drinks. Very friendly people, nice decoration, and walls are often used to exhibit work by local artists.”

Philo’s Deli, 2a High Street, Ruddington, Nottingham, NG11 6EH

Malt Cross Café Bar, 16 St James Street, Nottingham, NG1 6FG
From Simon: “Fabulous!” (thanks Simon, I’ve just found their website and it looks great - http://www.maltcross.com/ )

The Delicatessen, Brackley Courtyard (on the left hand side, not the coffee shop)
Cathy: “What a little gem in the middle of Brackley. Gorgeous food, not a chip or microwave in sight, very reasonable, good selection of beers and soft drinks. Will definitely try their Tapas evening at the weekends.” (Not sure this sounds much like a coffee house Cathy!!!)

Bella’s, Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire
From Paul: “a great little coffee shop – they’re cakes are fantastic and the pretty blond girl behind the counter always has a smile on her face!”

Lee Rosy’s, Hockley Nottingham
From Fay: “technically a tea shop but is brilliant and definately worth a look http://www.lee-rosy.co.uk/ (not a proper site but the address is there).

Fade… and the Hard to Find Cafe, Mansfield Road, Nottingham
From Fay: “It’s a bar/cafe but does great coffe and needs to be seen. The food’s good too”

Forever Green Cafe, near Mansfield
From James: “Its a great place with huge glass windows looking out onto 70 acres of woodland. They do great coffee and tasty food using herbs from their own herb garden & apples from their own orchard. see www.myspace.com/theartcafe for more info.”

Godfreys, Duffield, Derbyshire.
From Gregory: “Godfreys serves great coffee and is a lovely atmosphere!!”

Belle & Jerome, Central Avenue, West Bridgford, Nottingham
From Rob: “Belle & Jerome is a very cosy coffee shop on Central Avenue in West Bridgford, Nottingham. It is a great place to sip fantastic coffee and eat homemade cake!”

Big Blue Coffee Shop, Derby
From Gill: “Check out the big blue coffee shop in Sadlergate Derby Just great”

Much Ado Café, Olney, nr Milton Keynes
From Jo: “Much Ado Cafe has been open about a year and is packed out particularly in the latter half of the week. Attached to a Delicatessen run by Brooklynite Matt Prosky, it genuinely digs deep to provide fresh food by people who know food.”

Ripple Café Bar, Sherwood, Nottingham
Recommended by Debbie. Website: http://www.ripplecafebar.co.uk/

Wests in Market Street, Loughborough
From Kim: “A great cafe bar run by the delightful Deb West and her family. The food is fresh and home made, as are the great cakes. Deb always has a smile and a friendly chat and seems to know almost all of her customers by name. She even remebers how you like you coffee (which is excellent by the way!)”

The Coffeehouse @ Muse Studios, High Pavement, Nottingham
From Sprinkles: “Incorparated with a photography studio! Sounds bizarre but works well! It i lightly decorated with an atmosphere to lose yourself in. The staff were fab and I cannot get enough of their cakes! You must try a ginger tiffin…..”

Angel Coffee House, Freeschool Lane, Lincoln.
From James: “It’s a place where you can relax with a cup of great coffee served by extremely friendly and hospitable staff. They also sell delicious local cakes and freshly made panini’s.
There is a large outdoor space in a little spot of green in the centre of the city which is always packed in the warm summer months.
Definitely a contender for the best coffee shop in Lincoln. It’s becoming busier each year I’ve noticed, bearing in mind it hasn’t been around for long.”

Espresso Coffee Bar in Chilwell, Nottingham
From Kevin: “The shop has recently opened it serves fantastic coffee and the atmosphere is great“

Clowns, King Street, Cambridge

Utopia (next to the Royals Centre), Southend-on-Sea

Babaco Coffee Shop, High Street, Watton, Norfolk
Recommended by Jo.

Black Cat Cafe, 2 The Broadway, Mill Rd, Cambridge CB1 3AH.
From Nathan: “Great coffee and excellent food.”

The Window, Norwich
From Simon: “I can definitely recommend The Window in Norwich. 25 Wensum Street, Norwich – just down from the Cathedral. Apparently the smallest coffee shop in the world. So it fits the cosy bit. Coffee is supplied by Hasbean – Steve has an video and has written about it on his blog here – http://www.hasblog.co.uk/the-window-norwich. Hasn’t been open that long, but it’s become a firm favourite of mine.” Website: www.thewindowcoffee.co.uk (see site for Facebook and Twitter links)

Nameless kiosk in Ely, Cambridgeshire
From Dean: “I have stumbled across a little kiosk in Ely, Cambridgeshire called
coffeespeed it sells the best lavazza coffee I have had for ages, lovely
and fresh and served with a smile, worth checking out if your in the
area”.

Coffee Union, Liverpool
From Ian: “I’d like reccommend Coffee Union in Liverpool. It has 5 branches in the city centre and is a Liverpool based company. The quality of the coffee is by far the best I have experienced. Check their webite out coffeeunion.co.uk”

Little Frog Coffee Company, Ramsbottom, Lancashire
From Rebekah: “I own an independent ethically run coffee shop in Ramsbottom, Lancashire. Little Frog Coffee Company specialises in Fairtrade and Organic Produce and we pride ourselves on our beautiful capuccino.”

The Mousetrap, Ainsdale, Southport.
From Carina: “A fantastic little cafe & deli where Stuart & Gus have perfected the art of the strong but smooth coffee. The food is good too and they’re lovely guys who deserve a mention.”

Jubilee 1-2-1 Coffee Shop, 121 Royden Road, Overchurch, Upton, Wirral
From Nicki: “Child-friendly coffee shop. Run by volunteers, all part of Jubilee Church. Newly opened – fully refurbished. Excellent bean-to-cup machine (using fresh milk).”

Café Porto, 14 Rodney Street, Liverpool, L1 2TE.
From Rob: “Opened by trained pastry chef Pedro Carlos Almeida at the end of 2007, Cafe Porto aims to provide Liverpool with outstanding real coffee and Portuguese/ Mediterranean style snacks and food. It’s a small cafe tucked away on Rodney Street off Hardman Street, just a short distance from the city centre and the bustle of the Bold Street area. I really like the chocolate cake, and they serve excellent coffee!”

Loves Saves the Day, Thomas Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 1NA
From Clive: “Not mega salubrious surroundings, but dreamy coffee and brilliant staff”

Juicafe, Lancaster
From Gareth: “it is fantastic with a wonderful atmosphere. Watch out though, these guys have their own blend of coffee that is roasted about 200 yards away. For more info please visit http://www.juicafe.co.uk/ “

The Whaletail, Lancaster

Oklahoma, Manchester

VFresh, Blackburn

Funky Monkey Coffee Co, Bramhall Lane, Davenport, Stockport.
From “The Coffee Man”: “It’s just opened recently by a girl who spent six months working in Caffe Nero to hone her skills. Great, well made coffee, with a nice atmosphere, some comfy leather sofas and nice food. Well worth a try.”

Kencos Coffee Shop and Diner, Leigh, Lancashire
From Ian: “lovely coffee shop clean and friendly the coffee is second to none located in leigh lancashire”

The Chocolate Cafe, 2 Bolton Street, Ramsbottom, Bury BL0 9HX
Recommended by Emma.

J Atkinson & Co, Lancaster
Thanks to Ian: “We’re the local independent coffee roasters here and have just six covers in the shop for folk who don’t mind being sandwiched between the 1945 UNO Roaster (often roasting away) and the old Whitmee grinder (often grinding kilos of coffee for the local cafe scene). So if you are passing do call in and say hi.”

Espress Plus, Mossley Hill, Liverpool
Thanks to Tim: “You should visit Liverpool, city of culture (well last year!) with lots of cosy coffee shops. I have one in the Mossley Hill area, called Espresso Plus come and see us!!!!”

The Cultured Bean, Bridge Street, Ramsbottom
From Sharon: “The Cultured Bean award winning licensed coffee bar can be found on Bridge Street in Ramsbottom. Home of the award winning bitter chocolate torte aq wonderful, relaxed place to dine with friends“

Rocco, Liverpool
From Picku Piku: “It’s called Rocco and it’s in Liverpool, gorgeous little place that made me wish I lived in Liverpool just so I could go there everyday!! Now there’s a miracle! Sorry Liverpudlians! It’s in the city centre, but I don’t know the name of the road, close to Debenhams and opposite a big Costa on a corner. It’s on the first floor so just look out for a doorway with 2 cute shrubs on either side! Enjoy!”

Gorge’us, 7 Church Road, Bebington, Wirral, CH63 7PG
From Ceri: “Rainforest Alliance Coffee, and a large selection of homemade cakes, scones, afternoon tea, made to order sandwiches, home cooked meats and soups.”

The Orchid Room, 200 Wigan Lane, Marylebone, Wigan, Lancashire,  WN1 2LA
From Justine:  “I have a coffee cake and flowers shop in a place called marylebone near wigan. it is an independent coffee shop and i have built it up over the last 4 years sourcing good homemade cakes and locally produced sandwiches and hot food. it has taken me 4 years to find the right coffee and i think i am getting there. it is a lovely shop in beautiful surroundings and i think if you visited you would be pleasantly surprised for a coffee shop basically in wigan”.

Cafe Santos, Wigan.
From Claire: “I spend hours sitting in there, reading and watching the world go by. The coffee isn’t the best I’ve had but is by no means bad. The place itself makes up for it. Very friendly and noone minds if you sit there for hours!”

Paprika in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport
Recommended by Priti.

Silk Coffee Shop, 17 Market Place, Longridge, Lancs., PR3 3RR
From Jill: “Please come and try my fab new coffee shop! It has amazing coffees and teas by Atkinson’s of Lancaster (which is also a must see) and scrummy cakes by Lathom’s of Broughton. Also light lunches and a range of snacks. We also have a gorgeous shop with country-style accessories for home and garden.”

The Coffee Mill, Lytham, Lancs
From Mr Johnson: “The coffee mill in Lytham, Lancs,the columbian blend served in a cafetiere is very good, strong but smooth. no other coffee ever tastes as nice after having this ,the food is all made freash to order as well.Recomended“

Rhode Island Coffee, Burnley
From Luke: “I would suggest you go to the one in Burnley because thats my favourite.“

Coffee Evolution, 8 Church Street, Huddersfield, HD1 1DD
From Jon: “good coffee and food and nice big windows to watch the world go by!”

Tarpins Coffee Shop, Harrogate Road, Rawdon Leeds
From Paul: “I can highly recomend tarpins coffee shop for great food and fair trade hot drinks.”

Cello Coffee House, Sheffield, S8 7BP
From Youri: “Absolutely lovely people and great food!

From Michael: “Cello Coffee house in Sheffield has a great atmosphere and sell great food and coffees I\’d recommend it to others“

Cello Coffee House has now been visited! Read the entry here

Opposite Cafe, Leeds
Thanks to Lou for letting me know about Opposite Cafe, near the University (http://www.oppositeleedsuniversity.co.uk/ ): ”We’re an arty student hang out focussed on amazing coffee, fairtrade, organic, etc. We’ve won the northern barista championship twice“. Thanks Lou, I look forward to visiting.

Opposite is also recommended by Matthew: “May i suggest reviewing ‘opposite cafe’ in leeds–this multi award winning cafe is constantly over looked and has a thriving music,social and art scene as well as competition level coffee service with a smile+banter! and wonderful seating area both inside and out situated literally opposite the great hall steps of leeds university.”

Opposite Café has now been visited! Read the entry here

Opposite have recently (as of summer 2009) opened a stall in Victoria Quarter, Leeds, near Harvey Nicols. Recommended by Lester who says it’s “coffee of the highest standard”.

Mini Mocha, Leeds

Cocoa, 462 Ecclesall Rd, Sheffield, S11 8PX
Recommended by my sister Flo: “You HAVE to visit Cocoa in Sheffield. Join the facebook group.
It is actually my favourite place to be. (Cocoa, not the facebook group).”

Lempicka, Beverley, HU17 0DH
From Youri: “I am sure that you will love it. Please ask the owner called Aletia to make you a drink. She is wonderful!”

Also recommended by Heather: “My favourite is Lempika in Beverly – but it’s a bit expensive!”

Lempicka has now been visited: Read the entry here.

Chance Cafe, Chantlands Ave, Hull

McCoys, City Centre, Hull

Also recommended by Wayne: “mc coys, hull city centre is one of the best i know so check it out“

Sun Cafe, Cottingham Road, Hull

Lockwoods, 83 North Street, Ripon, North Yorkshire.
From Lockwoods: “Lockwoods is a cafe & restaurant open from 10am serving fantastic coffees with homemade cakes throughout the day along with brunch and lunch menus.  Matthew Lockwood is the owner and very passionate about the quality of the coffee Lockwoods produces. He trains all his staff to make coffee to a quality that he is happy to drink. Many people come and enjoy a long coffee in the relaxing and cosy atmosphere. Lockwoods also does take out coffee now due to demand because it has been commented as the best coffee around.”

The Big Coffee, Anlaby, East Yorkshire
Recommended by Heather.

The Coffee Bean, Pocklington, East Yorkshire
From Melissa: “There is a new coffee shop in Pocklington, East Yorkshire. It has a great atmosphere and the best coffee in town. Try The Coffee Bean.”

Also from Melissa… “The Coffee Bean in Pocklington, East Yorkshire opened it\’s doors in September 2008. we are totally independent and opened the shop becuase we could not get a decent coffee in the town where we live. The coffee is roasted on a Monday and delivered to us on the Tuesday and is freshly ground during the day for each cup to maximise freshness. Nearly all of our cakes are homemade (except muffins), as is our soup. Please come and give us a try if you are in the area I am sure you won\’t be disapointed with the quality of our coffee.”

The Coffee Bean is also recommended by Steven: “The coffee bean in Pocklington does a lovely cappuccino with terrific modern cups that you can buy.”

And it’s also recommended by Andrew: “excellent coffee houses and the cakes, etc all homemade/yummy”

Andrew says the same thing about TeeHee, the Market Place, Easingwold.

Brown sugar, Harrogate, north yorks,
From Megan: “a great place to chill out, have a coffee and a panini for lunch”.

Caffe Latino, Harrogate.
From Youri: “It’s located on the high street right next to WH Smith and opposite Cafe Nero. Great coffee! That’s all I need to say.”

Seasalt And Passion, situated in Bridlington, East Yorkshire.
Recommended by Gail.
(Note: I think this is more of a deli/café than a coffee shop)

Williams Coffee House, Richmond North Yorks
From Jeremy: “Trendy, Stylish, Comfy Chairs, Wonderful staff, and fantastic coffee with the biggest handmade cakes i have ever seen“

Sedburgh (various)
From Dorothe: “There are a few new coffee shops / cafes here in Sedbergh, which you might want to give a test drive. As your other entries include Kendal, Kirkby Stephen and Ambleside you must like it up here so why not pay Sedbergh a visit as we have a number of independent coffee shops. http://www.sedbergh.org.uk/ . Don’t forget Farfield Mill Arts & Heritage Centre just outside Sedbergh, well wort a visit including their much visited coffee shop”

Green’s in Grasmere, Cumbria
From Claire: “The coffee was all Fairtrade and delicious. The sandwiches (I had a baguette) are all freshly made to order, with a wonderful menu from which you can choose your main fillings and a condiment from a massive range. Many vegetarian options. The staff and service were brilliant and there is outdoor seating at the back, where I was able to sit with my dog. Wonderful.”

Anne Clayton’s Fusion Cafe, Brougham Hall, Brougham nr Penrith, Cumbria
From Lucy: “I love her coffee,Panninis and delicious homemade soup.The cafe is the beautiful surroundings at Brougham Hall which is a ?16C (very old anyway) fortified house.Enjoy!“

Coco Deli, Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire
From Emma: “A lovely cafe/coffee shop. Serves fairtrade coffee and homemade
cakes to die for. Freashly made food and a pleasing atmosphere.  Worth a visit.”

Tea and Tipple, 18 Market Place, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE54 5AQ

Salsa Café, 89 Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4AE
Thanks to anonymous poster for this message… “I love to go to the Salsa Cafe on Westgate road! Nice and dark and cosy and if you buy something from the bookshop opposite they give you a voucher for a free coffee!!!”

Side Cinema Café, near Quaside, Newcastle upon Tyne. Open until 10pm weekdays.

Belles & Herbes, Heaton, Newcastle.
According to Ken… “It has nice coffee and great milkshakes. Nice teas and juices too. It also does proper food and has a lovely atmosphere: perfect for us, the middle-class, to enjoy and feel as though we are participating in something holistic and somehow authentic. Check it out!”

Vennels, Durham
From Hannah: “it’s a little hard to find if you don’t know where it is, but the cakes are well worth it when you do and the food is also excellent.” (note from Cosy Coffee Shops…. I’ve seen Vennels and it’s less of a coffee house and more of a place for getting lunch, but it looks great if that’s what you’re after)

Cafe De Vie, Saville Row, off Northumberland Street, Newcastle
From Tom: - “they do excellent tea, coffee and snacks. A high personal recommendation goes to the scones!”

Well House Coffee Shop, Belford
Recommendations from two different readers no less. The web site is www.wellhousehayloft.co.uk

Pilgrims Coffee House, Holy Island
From Lisa: “I went to Pilgrims Coffee House on Holy Island with my Church group. What a find! real coffee made by a young team who make all their own food as well, try the crab sandwiches with home-made bread. My coffee came with a heart in the foam and lasted until the cup was emptied. The walled garden is beautiful, full of flowers and birds. You must go and try this place out, not only can you have ANY coffee you like/how you like it, but they seem to have a choice of at least 30 teas!”

And from Ken: “This is a wonderful place – tucked away in a corner behind a stone wall enclosing a beautiful garden area with further tables inside. The coffee and hot chocolate are simply wonderful – not just the taste, but every cup is a work of art – see the video in the gallery section of their website to see what I mean! www.pilgrimscoffee.com Well woth the effortof checking the times of the safe crossing to the island! Go there! you won’t be disappointed – Trust me!”

Also recommended by Chris: “Can I quickly recommend Pilgrim’s Coffee Shop on Holy Island – I notice you’ve been to Stables but we went in Pilgrim’s yesterday when we visited and it was really nice. Homely inside, good selection of coffees, biscuits, cakes, etc, and a nice seating area outside when the weather is good. Very friendly staff and latte art on the cappuccinos / mochas!”

Crossroads Coffee Shop, Mrytle Street, Ashington, Northumberland
Recommended by Danny

Rothbury Deli, Rothbury, Northumberland
Recommended by Sue & Rich

The Settle Down Cafe, Newcastle upon Tyne.
From Neil: “a tiny coffee shop which shares its space with a very obscure record shop and a gallery (the sort that does installations, rather than paintings). this is a really beautiful place- very cosy… eclectic furniture, little nicknacks spread about around the place. really nice friendly staff who make a mean capuccino. although i recommend the hazelnut mocha!! cakes are great too- all homemade. all prices very modest. also great toasted ciabatta sarnies. free internet. the drinks are fairtrade and organic.“

Coffee Quarter, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead
From Amanda: ”Hi, love visiting new coffee shops and although in a rather strange place for a coffee shop, the Coffee Quarter in Team Valley Trading Estate , Gateshead is one of the best Ive been in. I have visited your site a few times for recommendations when I travel out of Tyneside and this coffee shop should definitely be added to your list, you should give itr a visit.“

Kelly Ann’s, Bishop Auckland, County Durham
Recommended by John.

Shot in the Dark, City Road, Cardiff
From Valerie: “Have frequented here since it opened and the atmosphere is lovely and cosy unlike the chain coffee houses”

Garlands Coffee House and Eatery, 4 Duke Street Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AZ
From Michelle: “All tea and coffee is fair trade and organic; food is freshly prepared on the premises.”

The Big Rock Cafe, Porthmadog, Wales
From Miranda: “It has everything you want in a coffee shop – excellent menu, friendly staff and a real atmosphere that you just don’t get in places like Nero’s or Starbucks. They have lots of quirky little extras, like numbered rubber ducks for your food orders and cartoony, hand-drawn notices everywhere advertising their specials. Everything is Fair Trade and organic and it’s the kind of place that’s difficult to leave!”

Harrison’s, Sycamore St., Newcastle Emlyn, Carmarthenshire, SA38 9AJ, Wales
Recommended by Nicolas.

Cemlyn Tea Shop, Harlech, Wales
From Geoff and Jan: “yes I know, but we also serve very good coffee both in espresso style and also for cafetieres. Have just got in some Sumatra \’Zero Fault\’. We are currently closed but re-open in mid march for the season. We\’d be very happy to see you if you made a visit to North Wales. www.cemlynrestaurant.co.uk “ (I’m still not convinced this is a coffee shop!)

The Coffee House, Pencoed, mid Glamorgan, Wales
From Nicola: “Hi recently been visiting “The Coffee House” in Pencoed Mid glamorgan what a fab coffee shop. Really comfy leather sofas and chairs warm red walls and cosy atmosphere. The staff are friendly and nothing is too much trouble. Great coffee in fantasic creamy china mugs and cups. Well what can I say about the cakes….all homebaked by the owner chocolate and cream sponge that is as tall as mt everest. well worth a visit.”

Refresh Coffee, Tredegar, South Wales
From Roger: ”I’ve just visited a brand new coffee shop in Tredegar, South wales, it is a breath of fresh air, friendly staff, superb coffee and  ‘city’ style decor and furniture, nothing like it outside of Cardiff. Its called Refresh Coffee, 29-30 commercial st, tredegar, the outside hasnt been finished yet due to the weather.”

Number 18,
High Street,
Crickhowell,
Powys
Recommended by Michael.

Black Medicine, Nicolson Street, Edinbugh
From Louise: “I would like to recommend Black Medicine on Nicolson Street in Edinburgh….it really has it all…fantastic atmosphere, great coffee, driendly staff, good food and mixed clientele!”

Black Medicine has now been visited! Read the entry here.

Skyreburn Tea Pot, Skyreburn (A75 in Dumfries and Galloway)
From Jon: “Ok so it’s at the side of the A75 and it’s a small wooden cafe but it sells gorgeous coffee and the it’s right on the shoreline so you can look out across Skyreburn Bay at the Water of Fleet and forget about things for a while.”

The Cocoa Tree, 9 High Street, Pittenweem, Fife KY10 3TL
From Chris: “a chocolate shop, but with a fantastic coffe shop as well – great coffee, well served and with friendly and attentive staff. The hot chocolate is someting to die for.”
From Felicity: “I can endorse the recommendation for the Cocoa Tree cafe in Pittenweem“

Indulge, Auchterarder
The Birnam Institute, Birnam
From Felicity: “In Perth & Kinross, we have some excellent independent cafes – especially Indulge in Auchterarder (fine coffee and super homemade cakes and veggie savouries); The Birnam Institute (a community run arts venue with good cafe and Beatrix Potter exhibition – she spent her childhood holidays here) in Birnam (adjacent to Dunkeld); Gloagburn Farm Shop at Tibbermore (one of Perthshire’s first and best farm shops with tasty coffee and food – family run, they only serve what they like themselves); Loch Leven’s Larder Farm Shop, near Milnathort (again family run on own farm, using own produce, with fantastic views and walks).”  — it sounds like not all of these are coffee shops but thanks anyway Felicity!

D’nisi Coffee Company, Kirkintilloch and Hamilton (two branches, with 2 more opening in near future).
From Ronnie: “Best coffee i’ve tasted.”

Zulu Lounge, Edinburgh
Recommended by George.

The Riverbank restaurant, Newton Stewart, Wigtownshire, DG8 6EH
From Kenny: “Without doubt the best coffee shop in South West Scotland, excellent service, gorgeous views, and top coffee.”

Ralia Cafe, on the A9 at Newtonmore, Scotland
Recommended by Robert: ”Excellent coffee and food, very friendly staff, a good place to stop”. http://www.ralia.co.uk

Watermill, Aberfeldy
From Stuart: “You have just got to try the watermill in Aberfeldy, coffee, books and art and its in aberfeldy”

Carrubbers Cafe, Royal Mile, Edinburgh
From Anna: “Carrubbers Cafe is a popular cafe with locals. Situated on the Royal Mile, it is tucked away, but is a real gem! They serve tea, coffee, freshly made scones, a variety of cakes and tray bakes each day, as well as soups and rolls. They are extremely well priced, the service is friendly and the atmosphere is great.
Because everything is made fresh each morning, the opening hours are quite short (11.30 – 2.30 Monday – Friday) but it is often difficult to find a seat because people who know about it go so often!”

Trenabie’s Bistro in Kirkwall, Orkney.
From Claire: “Absolutely wonderful atmosphere, delicious coffee (all Fairtrade) and a great range of very well-presented food. The only downside is that it’s so good, it’s hard to get a table!!”

Jammy Coo, Lilliesleaf, Melrose
From Holly: “There is an amazing coffee shop and gallery in the Scottish Borders called the Jammy Coo. It is gorgeous and cosy and very friendly. The food they serve there is amazing!!! It should definately feature on this site!”

The Burgh Coffeehouse, Stirling
From David: “I would like to recommend The Burgh Coffeehouse in Stirling, its located
right in the middle of the town center and serves a great cup of coffee
at a good price too.”

The Velvet Lobster, Douglas, Isle of Man
From Allan: “You should try the Velvet Lobster. Its the newest cosy cafe/bar, really tasty food, coffee and good service. www.thevelvetlobster.com“

The Original Roast Coffee co, 407 Lisburn rd, Belfast BT9 7EW
Recommended by Ruth. http://www.originalroast.com/

Caffe Fresco in Strabane, Northern Ireland
Recommended by Kate.

Crusoe’s in Castlerock, Northern Ireland
Recommended by Kate.

Nordaggio’s, Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A
From Drew: “I wanted to suggest to you a great coffee shop in the most unlikely location. Originally from Seattle, the owner, Tor Nordstrom, has two locations and a previous employee spawned her own shop called Shades of Brown. Nordaggio’s specializes in high-quality Northern Italian roast espresso, all roasted on location, great latte art, macchiatos, and gelato too! One of the best coffee shops in the heart of America.”

Coffee Break, Bilbao, Spain
From Patricia: “I would like to recommend “Coffee Break”, the first Coffee Shop in Bilbao (Spain). www.cofeebreakworld.es“ (the first coffee shop in Bilbao?! Surely not)

…..after adding my doubtful last line, I received the following (brilliant) response…. “Coffee Break, the first coffee shop in Bilbao: SURELY YES!!!You can find many cafes or bars but until Coffee Break opened there were no Coffee Shops in Bilbao.” Patricia, I’m sorry – I stand corrected!

Cafe Louvre
Recommended by Astrid: “Recently returned from Prague and the favourite on our coffee shop crawl was Cafe Louvre, fab coffee, wonderful first floor room, very arty and superb cakes. Try the poppyseed and plum strudel”

The Kiwi Cafe, 19 Pleasant Street, Chester, Nova Scotia, Canada
Recommended by Lynda.

Cornelia Bean on Academy in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Recommended by Sharon