Arriving on this island on the first day of September, meant that we still had four months to discover some of the best coffee shops in the UK. Living and working in a new country presents the most amazing opportunities to visit incredible new places, and we have started doing that in the south of England, sampling the local coffee and cuisine as we go. Our list is limited to the south-east, and we will surely add to this list in the new year.
1) The Collective Caversham – best coffee shop in Reading
Our definite favourite, and the first place I visited when I landed, was this small café and lifestyle store. Located in Church Road, Caversham, I could sense the vibe, and smell their great coffee as I crossed the Caversham Bridge from central Reading on that first day.
During my initial visit, I opted for a take-away cappuccino, savouring it at the beautiful Caversham Court Gardens nearby. The coffee shop features sheltered seating at the rear, a cosy indoor space, and tables spilling onto the bustling Church Road. Given its popularity, it’s advisable to arrive early for a dine-in experience. Hannah consistently chooses their refreshing iced coffee, while I indulge in a large cappuccino.
Our go-to treats are the delectable almond croissants, savoury croissants and cruffins. The establishment also offers a tempting array of artisanal breads and mouthwatering pastries – it’s amazing how great coffee and pastries go together so well!
In addition to coffee, they serve delicious brunches and lunches, making it a comprehensive culinary experience.
2) Pierreponts Café – Goring-on-Thames
On a chilly day in November, we stumbled upon Pierreponts in the High Street in Goring, a welcoming refuge from the icy weather. Seeking warmth, we found a table in this inviting and snug cafe, where a delightful assortment of cakes and brownies awaited us. Opting for an orange cake, I was treated to a burst of citrus flavour, while Gary indulged in the richness of almond and vanilla, and Hannah delighted in a decadent rocky road chocolate cake. The coffee was superb and we indulged in a few cups before we were ready to face the negative temperatures outside. We will definitely return to this, the best coffee shop in Goring.
3) Spoon – Henley-on-Thames
Henley-on-Thames was the fist town Hannah and I visited after her arrival in the UK, and what a beautiful little town it is!
After a leisurely stroll along the Thames, the need for a good coffee led us through the narrow streets until we came across Spoon in Duke Street. Opting for a pavement table, we were able to watch the passers by and enjoy the town’s lively atmosphere.
The owner’s friendliness and helpfulness added to the charm, and the home-made sausage rolls proved to be both fresh and flavourful. Without a doubt, the coffee at Spoon must be considered the best in town.
4) Anonymous Coffee Co – Peppard Common
Our go-to coffee shop at work, Anonymous Coffee Co supplies a large part of southern England with great coffee. While I have never sat at their facility in Peppard Common, I have had many a cup in take away form, that has brought both me, and my colleagues great joy!
Not only does this establishment stand out as one of the best coffee shops in the area, but it also takes pride in ethically sourcing its coffee beans, and its commitment to minimising environmental impact is truly commendable. Our admiration for these values underpins our decision to support this family-owned and operated business for years to come.
5) Alto Lounge – Caversham, Reading
Ah, the Alto Lounge! A culinary heaven in Church Street, where our taste buds revel in a diverse array of dishes, from the zing of spicy salads to the satisfaction of delectable chilli beef offerings and the irresistible crunch of halloumi chips served with sweet chilli sauce. Breakfast, lunch and supper, they have it all.
With such an impressive food menu, one might forgive if the focus shifted away from coffee, but that’s far from the case. The dark-roast cappuccinos here are an absolute delight—each sip a resounding “yum” that completes the dining experience.
And now 2024 awaits. We are excited to adventure further into this fascinating country, discovering more of the history as well as the best coffee shops on the island. We hope you will join us.
