The Best Coffee Shops in Cornwall
*Please note that this information was correct as of March 2020 and due to COVID-19, some restaurants may be operating under new guidelines - for full information, we recommend you contact the establishment directly.*
Whenever visiting a new town or village in Cornwall, it’s always our favourite ritual to seek out a cosy café where you can enjoy a steaming hot coffee and a sweet treat, to really absorb the local atmosphere and take in your surroundings (Plus, who doesn’t love coffee?!) If you’re a real coffee connoisseur, you will know that visiting a national chain just isn’t an option and a staycation in Cornwall is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some delicious, locally-produced coffee from one of Cornwall’s speciality shops.
To make things easier, here are our favourite hidden gems to enjoy an energising, top-quality coffee:
BOX & BARBER Newquay
Best for Fistral Beach
After a salty, windswept walk across the blissful Fistral Beach, there is no better place for a ‘proper’ coffee than the award-winning Box & Barber. The hip coffee culture in Newquay is definitely on the up, and this one of our firm favourites to head to at any time of the day. The coffee itself is all sourced from Cornish coffee producers and there are lots of interesting options to choose from. Whether you opt for a creamy cappuccino, flat white or for the more health-conscious, there are delights such as a nutrient-packed almond and turmeric latte, superfood-loaded smoothie or coconut chai latte. If you’re feeling peckish, the menu boasts a range of wholesome and healthy options for all appetites and cravings. Try the Acai Bowls, which have gained a name for themselves amongst the locals or a more sumptuous bacon ciabatta – delicious!
GROUNDED Truro
Best for Trewhiddle
Truro is a vibrant, historical city with phenomenal architecture and is home to the iconic cathedral which soars above the rooftops. The city is also a shopper’s mecca; the best way to describe it is an Aladdin’s cave of little trinket and boutique shops – perfect for getting your hands on some lovely little stocking fillers. The city is also a hot spot for foodies and home to Grounded, which has earned itself an strong reputation in Cornwall for being a great hidden gem for some tasty coffee goodness. Serving Olfactory Coffee, this is the perfect spot to pop in for a refuel in-between exploring the compact streets of Truro. They also serve a truly wonderful Flat White and have an assortment of sweet and savoury pastries on display – think flaky pasties and indulgent portions of homemade quiche.
CHERRY TREES COFFEE HOUSE Padstow
Best for Fistral Beach
Whilst discovering the charming fishing village of Padstow, whether that be strolling along the golden sandy beaches, embarking on the iconic Camel Cycle Trail or wandering around with the hope of bumping into Poldark, a stop off at the Cherry Trees Coffee House must be scheduled into your visit. Take a seat inside and marvel at views of the whole harbour, watching the boats bob by periodically, while enjoying an artisan coffee in the heart of Padstow. As well as serving freshly ground coffee, the establishment also serves hearty Cornish food such as seafood chowder, open crab sandwiches and a selection of tempting sweet treats such as Coffee and Walnut Cake (said by many to be the best they have tasted!). This café is always bustling for good reason, so the colder months are a great time to visit to avoid waiting around.
CHAPEL CAFE Port Isaac
Best for Fistral Beach
Whether you are holidaying in North Cornwall or just visiting for the day, we thoroughly recommend visiting the traditional fishing village of Port Isaac. The white-washed settlement is nestled between rugged, rolling hills with narrow winding streets (the most famous being ‘Squeezy Belly Alley’), which leads down to the harbour. Chapel Café is an establishment which oozes the unique character of Port Issac; and comprises a thoughtfully restored 19th century chapel in the heart of the village. Not only have they been dubbed by Mr Birdseye himself as the makers of the ‘Best Fish Finger Sandwich’, they also boast their own signature blend of coffee, sourced from a roastery in Penryn and is roasted exclusively for them. Whether you’re craving a velvety latte or a strong americano, coffee lovers should prepare to schedule your return!
Whether you have your sights set on escaping to North or South Cornwall, we have a selection of holiday homes to suit all. Speak to our Concierge Team by calling 01625 416 430 for our latest offers and availability.