The winter weather here is still taking me a bit to get used to. I’m used to freezing cold temps, car sliding in the street because of all the snow, falling to your doom on black ice, and winds so bitter cold that it feels like someone punched you in the chest when you step outside of your house.
However, here in the UK most of their cold weather comes in the form of rain. It’s been raining for months I feel like and I’m starting to feel torn as to which weather I’d rather have. While I do not miss eating it on the icy sidewalks or walking through snow that’s up to my chins, I am starting to get tired of the rain. Since the cold weather has hit, I’ve been spending more time inside coffee shops. So, I thought it would be fun to do a roundup of my favorite ones.
The Syon Café
The Syon Café was the first coffeehouse I visited in the UK. Just walking distance from our home, they offer coffee, teas, breakfast and lunch. It’s super cozy in there and I often spend my mornings reading in there over a mocha and order of French toast. I usually try something new from the menu when I go there, and I haven’t had anything that I didn’t like.
Coffee Republic
I’ve been to two different Coffee Republic locations and would say that my favorite location is the one in Bedford. You can get fun festive drinks with every edible favors on top. They also offer a full menu of sandwiches, soups and pastries.
Coffee with Art
If you’re looking to have a more solid flavor and decorative design on your latte, Coffee with Art is where you want to be. They create a snug and homely feeling that you won’t want to leave. They offer probably the largest food menu that I’ve seen from coffeeshops here so far and I’m always treated with some type of design in my latte.
Caffé Nero
In my opinion, is very similar to Coffee Republic. If you’re looking for fun and festive drinks, Caffee Nero is the place to go. The last time I was there, I had a Belgian truffle chocolate hot chocolate which I added espresso to. They topped the drink with whipped cream and chocolate drops which steadily melted into the already chocolatey drink, super tasty.
Starbucks
It’s so odd to me that Starbucks is more of an emerging brand here. Towns are still popping up with new Starbucks. We’ve been to several around town and all have been delicious. Whenever I’m starting to miss home, Starbucks is definitely a way to cheer me up.
Embrace the Journey 