The best 10 cafes in London, United Kingdom
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Welcome to the caffeinated wonderland that is London! If you're in dire need of a pick-me-up after navigating the city's bustling streets, fear not, for we have compiled a tantalizing list of the top 10 best cafes to fuel your caffeine cravings. From the charmingly quirky Bean There, Done That, serving up the finest brews with a side of whimsical decor, to Buzzed & Confused where baristas boast of their ability to extract espresso with their eyes closed, London's cafe scene has something for every coffee aficionado. So gather your caffeine-loving comrades and embark on a voyage through these java gems to satisfy your tastebuds and explore London's caffeinated treasures!
Save destination1. Dalloway Terrace
16-22 Great Russell St, London WC1B 3NN, UK
As you waltz through the streets of London, seeking respite from the bustling city chaos, you stumble upon the whimsical wonderland of Dalloway Terrace. Nestled within the limbs of Fitzrovia, this enchanting garden retreat flirts with your senses, inviting you to indulge in an utterly charming alfresco dining experience. With lush greenery embracing the flickering candlelight, Dalloway Terrace sends you on an enchanted journey, where your taste buds are thrilled and your Instagram followers are tantalized.
Learn more2. The Wolsely
160 Piccadilly, St. James's, London W1J 9EB, UK
Welcome to The Wolseley in London, the place where glamour, elegance, and eggs benedict collide! This iconic eatery is like the city's very own time-travel machine, whisking you away to 1920s Vienna, complete with Art Deco interiors and more chandeliers than your aunt's dimly lit Christmas tree. Whether you're craving a celebratory afternoon tea or simply want to rub shoulders with London's posh and somewhat posh-ish, The Wolseley offers a dining experience that will leave you feeling both pampered and slightly confused about your table manners.
Learn more3. Farm Girl Café
59A Portobello Rd, London W11 3DB, UK
Welcome to Farm Girl Café, where the concrete jungle meets chickens! Nestled in the heart of London, this quirky café offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle while providing you with as many Instagram-worthy moments as a unicorn petting zoo. From their heavenly matcha lattes served in adorable mini wheelbarrows to their fluffy pancakes that could double as cloud pillows, this farm-themed eatery is the perfect spot for herbivores, carnivores, and even tofu-enjoying dinosaurs!
Learn more4. Sketch
9 Conduit St, London W1S 2XG, UK
Welcome to Sketch, a whimsical haven in London's posh Mayfair district that's as peculiar as it is fabulous. Step into this Alice in Wonderland-esque world and brace yourself for a truly enchanting experience. With its diverse dining rooms and funky art exhibitions, Sketch is the place to unleash your passion for visual and culinary delights, all while feeling just a tad like you've stumbled into an Instagrammer's dream. Prepare to be blown away by the mesmerizing interiors of Sketch that could easily double as a Wes Anderson movie set. The Gallery, with its cotton-candy pink walls, is where you'll feast your eyes on mind-bending artwork while nibbling on dainty finger sandwiches. And don't be surprised if you find yourself whispering "Louis XIV" in the Powder Room, where you can relieve yourself in egg-shaped futuristic toilets cocooned by neon lights. Trust us, it's more fascinating than it sounds. Now, let's talk food. Indulge in a gastronomic adventure at the Michelin-starred Lecture Room & Library, where culinary marvels are plated with the precision of a surgeon. Alternatively, head to the enchanting Glade room and surround yourself with woodland-inspired decor while tucking into heartwarming British classics with a twist. Just be warned: you might find it hard to resist taking dozens of pictures, as Sketch's aesthetic is so photogenic, you'll question if you've magically stepped into a surreal art installation.
Learn more5. Biscuiteers Boutique & Icing Café
194 Kensington Park Rd, London W11 2ES, UK
Welcome to the land of sugar-induced happiness, where Biscuiteers Boutique & Icing Café reigns supreme! Nestled in the vibrant heart of London, this whimsical haven is not just your ordinary bakery. Prepare to have your taste buds tickled and your creativity fired up, as you marvel at the artistry that goes into these hand-iced biscuits, which are almost too beautiful to eat (almost, but not quite – let's be honest, resisting the temptation is futile). Grab your apron and unleash your inner Picasso at their icing masterclasses, all while indulging in delectable treats that will leave you grinning like a Cheshire cat. This is one place where dreams come true, and the only regret you'll have is not bringing a larger stomach to fit in all the sugary delights!
Learn more6. Origin Coffee Roasters
The British Library, 96 Euston Rd., London NW1 2DB, UK
Origin Coffee Roasters in London is the caffeine haven that will make your taste buds jump up and down like caffeinated kangaroos. Step into this cozy oasis of roasted goodness and be prepared to take a sip down coffee lane, where beans are treated with utmost respect and brewed with wizard-like precision. If you have ever wondered what magic feels like in a cup, Origin Coffee Roasters will make your taste buds boogie with every sip you take.
Learn more7. L'ETO Caffè
155 Wardour St, London W1F 8WG, UK
Welcome to L'ETO Caffè in the heart of London, known as the caffeinated haven where sugar and dreams collide! This whimsical establishment is a delightful marriage between a bakery, a café, and Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. Prepare to be seduced by their delectable pastries, tantalizing cakes, and a menu that shamelessly whispers, "Go ahead, indulge in your cravings, we won't judge!" Whether you're seeking a fairy-tale setting to woo your taste buds or simply longing for a sugar rush that rivals a rollercoaster ride, L'ETO Caffè is the place to be.
Learn more8. The Attendant
27A Foley St, London W1W 6DY, UK
Nestled in the heart of London, The Attendant is a charming café that hilariously defies its previous life as a Victorian public toilet. Step into this peculiar space and marvel at the witty juxtaposition of sparkling white subway tiles with modern comfort. Sip on expertly crafted espressos or enjoy a scrumptious sandwich while you contemplate the strange but wonderful concept of finding solace in a place that was once intended for, well, relieving oneself.
Learn more9. Monocle Café
18 Chiltern St, London W1U 7QA, UK
Nestled in the heart of London, Monocle Café is a delightful spot where hipsters and coffee aficionados gather to discuss their latest mustache waxing techniques. With its sleek design, this caffeine haven is the perfect hideout for those seeking a refuge from the grim reality of subpar lattes. Be prepared to dive into an experience where the baristas skillfully craft your coffee with a precision that would make even the most seasoned surgeon envious!
Learn more10. Peggy Porschen Cakes
116 Ebury St, London SW1W 9QQ, UK
Welcome to Peggy Porschen Cakes, a charming little paradise tucked away in the heart of London. Prepare to have your sweet tooth indulged and your taste buds tickled by an array of delectable delights. With its dainty pink façade and picture-perfect floral decorations, this enchanting bakery is practically begging to be Instagrammed; just make sure to savor each bite before posting, or you might provoke an online bakery riot!
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to London by plane is to fly into London Heathrow Airport, which is one of the major airports in the city. Other good options include London Gatwick Airport and London City Airport.
Car
Driving to London is possible too, but you will need to consider the heavy traffic and parking issues in the city. The best way to get there by car is to take the M25 motorway, which circles around the city, and follow directions to the city center.
Train
If you prefer to travel by train, the best option is to take the Eurostar from Paris to London, which arrives at London St. Pancras International Station.
Boat
There are no direct boat services to London, but you can take a ferry or cruise to a nearby port and then take a train or bus to the city. Southampton port is the closest port to London that has good transport links.
Bus
To reach London by bus, you can take the National Express coach service, which operates from various cities throughout the UK and arrives at Victoria Coach Station in London.
