Cute Coffee Shops To Wait Out The End Of Winter In

Image Credit: @breakslow

If London was sunny and warm all-year long, it wouldn’t be fair to any other city. However, the winters definitely dull its appeal: harsh winds, unrelenting rain, and sparse sunlight will put a damper on anyone’s mood. Luckily, London also offers some of the cutest cafes—the perfect remedy to a lack of serotonin brought on by the long winters. Below are three cafes for you to visit while waiting out the gloomy season, with each spot boasting an atmosphere that will make you want to stay for hours. Whether you're after a quiet corner to read, a lively spot for people-watching, or a place to grind out uni coursework, these cafes have you covered. Here’s where to warm up this winter.

• The Observatory Coffee Shop

Tucked around the corner from UCL’s Pharmacy School lies this charming cafe. Doubling as a photography gallery, its upper level is adorned with photos and swathed in natural light, streaming in from the large floor-to-ceiling windows. Their wooden desks and light music further add to the contemporary ambience, making it the perfect place to enjoy a book with a delicious cup of coffee or matcha. By contrast, the lower level offers a more studious setting, with dim lighting and a quiet ambiance, making it a favoured workspace for students immersed in essays and projects. 

• Kasa Cafe

This hidden gem in the midst of Fitzrovia is a personal favourite and a must-try. Kasa offers an extensive selection of coffees, matchas, and juices to render each visit a new experience. Stepping inside this inviting space feels like entering an expertly curated home—lush greenery spills from shelves, warm lighting casts a welcoming glow, and eclectic artwork adds character to the space. Furthermore, the sleek marble tables provide the ideal setup for getting some work done, while the snug couch area invites relaxed conversations. Kasa’s atmosphere strikes a great balance between comfort and creativity, making it a great spot for both a solo coffee-date or a lively catch-up with friends.

• Attendant Coffee Roasters

Once a Victorian public toilet, Attendant Coffee Roasters underwent a remarkable transformation and emerged as one of London’s most distinctive cafés in 2013. Nestled underground, this coffee shop draws visitors not just for its wide-selection of drinks and diverse brunch menu, but also for its quirky, historic setting. The interior reflects its past, as the original Doulton & Co. urinals have been repurposed into tables—an eccentric yet charming touch that makes it a perfect spot for solo diners. Additionally, their food is generously proportioned, ensuring you're getting your money’s worth. This unique, history-inspired space offers a truly one-of-a-kind coffee experience in the heart of the city.

So, as the long days linger over London, step into one of these cafes to escape the cold and warm up over your favourite drink. Allow the caffeine and sweet treats to cheer you up during this season and bring you a sense of comfort. Once you smell the scent of freshly brewed coffee, surely a hint of spring will seem right around the corner.