There’s nothing better than sitting in a cosy cafe with a cappuccino, and Clarendon Park, a popular area for students to live close to the uni and Vicky Park, has no shortage of lovely independent coffee shops. From artisan bakeries to family-friendly cafes, you will always find somewhere to treat yourself to coffee and a pastry after an early morning lecture or tea and cake on a lazy afternoon. Here is a round-up of my faves:
This is a local business selling amazing freshly made pastries, cakes, toasted sandwiches etc. as well as great coffee. The chocolate twist and pain au raison were both delicious. The atmosphere is inviting and the owner is very friendly. It is small inside (as the name suggests) but there’s room to sit by the window and watch the world go by.
A quirky deli serving fresh food and drinks with a slightly Spanish feel and funky decorations. The coffee was nice and the deli counter looked amazing with a range of cheeses, wines and olives.
Decor and food counter inside Salvador Deli
A family run bakery specialising in delicious home-made cupcakes (including Banoffee and Snickers – yum!). It has an arty, family-friendly atmosphere – they even have boardgames and books for customers to use.
Don’t be put off by the fact that it’s also a shoe shop – inside is a cosy cafe with good quality coffee, relaxed vibes and cheerful service. It had a lovely looking selection of cakes and pastries and I’m definitely tempted to come back again for breakfast or lunch.
Although more of a restaurant than a coffee shop, they have an impressive breakfast menu with the bonus of a free tea or coffee before 12pm. My friend and I went here for brunch (the smoked salmon was delicious) which was surprisingly good value as they give a generous 25% student discount.
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I hope you enjoy exploring the numerous independent cafes that Clarendon Park has to offer! Now I’m off to drink some coffee…