Autumn is here! Leaves are falling crisp from the trees, you’re unearthing your winter wardrobe, but your weekends are probably as busy as ever. City break with friends? Running errands around town? retail therapy? Exploring the city? With plenty of huge events coming up in London this Autumn, the city will no doubt be buzzing. Whatever you have planned, here are some perfect autumn hideouts for you to sit back, warm yourself up and indulge in some top-notch hot drinks and replenishing nosh.
96A Leather Lane, London EC1N 7TX
In a UK where coffee steals the artisan limelight, the nation’s favourite brew, the humble tea, is left behind. Good & Proper Tea aim to change that, channelling all their efforts into well-sourced, great-tasting, lovingly-brewed tea. You’ll be well and truly spoilt for choice, with their extensive and ever-growing collection of loose leaf teas. Close to the Museum of London and St Paul’s Cathedral, it’s the perfect stop-over when you’re in need of a little break from exploring the city. They even have an online shop so you can take their ethos into your own home.
29-31 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath, SE3 0TJ
The beer that is served is brewed within the venue and they offer a range of different types – from stout to pale ale and mango beer. Set back from the road on the southern edge of lovely, leafy Blackheath, it doesn’t appear grand from the outside, but step inside and you’ll find that it opens up like the proverbial Aladdin’s cave to offer more than enough space for any sized group to enjoy themselves, while retaining a sense of intimacy missing from many larger venues.
Unit 29 The Piazza Covent Garden WC2E 8RE
Replenish your energy levels with a warming, delicious crepe. Step inside the inviting interior after a heavy shopping session, and you won’t be disappointed. Not got much of a sweet tooth? Never fear – this wittily named crepery have a whole host of savoury options on the menu, including plenty for vegetarians. Think savoury crepes are weird? The sweet crepes are predictably numerous and tempting. Try the Rumble in the Crumble, with stewed apple, cinnamon crumble, and extra thick double cream to give yourself that much-needed pit-stop.
83 Southwark Street, London, SE1 0HX
The Table Café is centrally-located in Southwark, a stone’s throw from the London Bridge and more. For a great coffee in a relaxed space, it’s a perfect respite from the buzzing streets. If you’re feeling hungry, you’re in safe hands. The aim here is simple food with flair. Brunch is served until 3:30pm on weekends, offering tempting classics, vegan and veggie options, and a whole host of waffle and pancake dishes for you to ponder over. The Table Café is a café with a difference. Recently, its owners have been in collaboration with homeless charity St Mungo’s, purchasing fresh herbs and vegetables grown in an allotment underneath the Shard.
33 D’Arblay St, Soho, London W1F 8EU
This American-inspired joint is full of personality and comfort food to die for. Though these quirky diners are dotted around London, the restaurant close to Oxford street is another perfect refueling station for your hardcore shopping session. Chilly days spent Christmas shopping call for warming, indulgent treats and hot drinks. Specialising in all the most feel-good food, the extensive menu might present you with a difficult choice, but it’ll be worth it!
80A Mortimer Street, Fitzrovia, W1W 7FE
One thing you can be sure of at Workshop is a fantastic coffee. Workshop staff are on a constant search for the best coffee, working directly with (and regularly visiting) farmers and producers overseas to source the best and most ethical coffee. The decor will have you soaking up London culture with its Victorian Bohemian yet minimal design. If you take your coffee seriously, this is the spot for you!
