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One of the perks of being a freelancer is the freedom to work from anywhere! At times I can find myself developing cabin fever from long hours in my office, on these occasions, there is nothing I love more than venturing out for a coffee or some lunch! Whether it is a break from the screen or a remote working session, a change of scenery can work wonders!
I am lucky enough to be surrounded by independent coffee shops, and I have tried and tested a range of them! Whilst there are plenty to choose from, I have my favourites when it comes to the best coffee and cake! Here is a rundown of five of the best coffee shops in Wakefield, perfect for a brew and to blow away the cobwebs.
#1 FortyThree Boutique Coffee Shop
Situated in Sandal, and conveniently placed within walking distance from my home – FortyThree is my favourite place to go for a freshly brewed coffee.
There are many things that rank FortyThree at the top of my list, the location being just a bonus, this rustic café offers homemade cakes unlike anything you’ve ever tasted! If you have a sweet tooth, you have to try this place, not only do they do a range of in-house delicacies but they also do occasion cakes and cupcakes that look and taste incredible!
If cake isn’t your thing, then there is also a wide range of savoury options that will have you covered. Whether it is breakfast, lunch or just a snack you are after, everything here is homemade and delicious.
Winners of ‘Café of the Year’ in 2017, managers Nicole and Wendy Bolger along with Mark Etherington have developed this coffee shop from its opening in 2011 into a rustic and peaceful place to go if you are looking for a warm atmosphere, a hot drink and a bit of time to yourself.
#2 Cobblers Fine Sandwiches and Coffees
I didn’t find Cobblers until recently, but the ethos of the place really stood out to me from the moment I stepped through the door. They are all about local business and ethical food, which is made evident both in-house and on their website.
This shabby-chic coffee shop offers a quaint interior that lends itself to some time away from a computer screen. They offer a wide range of organic, locally sourced foods, which are all homemade and look incredible! (I would personally recommend the New Yorker from their specialities menu!)
Cobblers is a world away from your average chain coffee shop, with a fairly recent addition of the book exchange giving you the opportunity to get your teeth into a novel and then leave it for someone else to enjoy! It is features like this that make this spot the perfect place to go for a few hours of uninterrupted bliss (I don’t bring my laptop with me when I come here, it is time I can spend to myself without thinking about work).
Cobblers only open during the week, but I would definitely recommend giving it a go especially if you interested in knowing where your ingredients come from! The friendly and laid back atmosphere will not disappoint.
#3 Mocca Moocho
Established in 2010, Mocca Moocho is one of my favourite coffee shops to have a working lunch. They do the best coffee and hot chocolates and the setup lends itself to a productive afternoon of work!
If you are into your afternoon tea then this coffee shop will not disappoint! Whilst the shop itself has a slight more laid back and homely interior than some of the others on my list, the afternoon tea remains traditional, and always goes down a storm (just check out their reviews on Facebook and Trip Advisor)!
Like the other establishments in my top 5, all the food here is homemade (they do some incredible pastries)! One of my favourite things about this coffee shop is that they open every day of the week, meaning I can go any day of the week to sample some coffee and cake!
# 4 Marmalade On The Square
Marmalade on the Square is a quaint vintage coffee shop offering a cozy throwback to the past. They do a range of homemade foods both sweet and savoury as well as a traditional afternoon tea!
I love the drive behind this place as they are strong advocates for local businesses in and around Yorkshire, which I can wholeheartedly get behind. Not to mention they do a bloody good cup of tea that comes served in a dainty china teacup.
Marmalade on the Square has only been open since 2013 but they have quickly become one of the go-to places in Wakefield. Situated in the heart of the city, there is always something going on.
If tea and cake aren’t enough to make you pay them a visit, they also run regular workshops with a lady called Annie Sloan who specialises in all things vintage!
#5 Lakeside Café
Last but by no means least, Lakeside Café is perhaps the most idyllically placed establishment on my list. Perfect to unwind with a coffee, or finish some last minute work off by the beautiful Newmillerdam lake.
Situated in Newmillerdam, Lakeside Café offers organic, fresh ingredients across a range of cuisine from breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and homemade desserts!
Originally established by John and Joanne Coxon Lakeside Café is absolutely my go-to place if I really want to unwind after a long day at work. It is surrounded with natural beauty, the food is delicious, and the service even better!
Whether you are enjoying your breakfast on the outdoor eating area or coming in the evening for a sit-down meal with friends, Lakeside Café will not disappoint. They do a great cup of coffee (or glass of wine depending on how hard your day has been!)