Let’s talk coffee shops! Who doesn’t love a good old creamy latte or a hot chocolate with squirty cream and marshmallows?
Sometimes it’s hard to find a great independent spot in your local area. Travelling into London where there is a buzzing coffee scene and there is pretty much an independent coffee shop almost everywhere you turn. Although sometimes, the greatest coffee shops are right on your doorstep.
I live in Watford and there are a few amazing coffee shops near by that have little quirks and charms to them. These are the ones I would highly recommend visiting if your in the area, perhaps your visiting the Harry Potter Studios or you live in Hertfordshire and are seeking delicious coffee.
So, without further ado, here’s my top four – the crème de la crème of coffee shops on the outskirts of London:
Ocean Bells.
Ocean Bells is located on the high street in Watford. It has a cosy atmosphere and funky decor. I love the little touches here such as the vintage cans for sugar and a cute hourglass timer that comes with your pot of tea.
The coffee is really great too! It goes perfectly with their incredible chocolate orange cake (mmmm – still dreaming of that slice).
Ocean bells, 133 High St, Watford, WD17 2ER
Fred & Ginger Coffee.
My favourite. The lattes, hot chocolates and food are incredible at Fred & Ginger.
The decor is modern and I adore the quaint touches, like the vintage tea spoons (how cute). It’s also dog friendly!
It’s usually jam-packed at weekends, so it’s pretty hard to get a table. I would recommend popping by super early, or if you don’t mind waiting tables usually free up in ten minutes or so. Alternatively, you can visit during the week when it’s much quieter.
Fred & Ginger Coffee, 38 High St, Kings Langley, WD4 9HT
Viento Coffee Company.
So close to home and AMAZING hand crafted roasted coffee. They have a variety of coffee beans to choose from. Oh, and the almond croissants are out of this world too – seriously seriously so good.
The only downside is its pretty small inside, though they do have a couple of tables outside which is nice for when the weather is warmer. Anyway, my husband and I usually take our coffee to go as it’s more convenient for us.
Harris + Hoole.
Since Tesco acquired it, Harris + Hoole has become much more accessible in recent years which is amazing. Hands down one of the best coffee chains out there today.
I always get a chai latte with soya – so creamy and delicious – and if I pop by early-ish I treat myself to a jam scone with clotted cream. They usually sell out by 4pm and my heart breaks a little bit every time they tell me they have sold out of those delicious scones.
The hot chocolates and regular lattes are lovely too!
Harris + Hoole (inside Tesco Extra), 239-241 Lower High St, High St, Watford, WD17 2BD
Whats your favourite coffee shop? If you are a Hertfordshire local and your favourite coffee shops haven’t made the list, let me know – I’d love to try them out!
I don’t go to many coffee shops, especially independent chains, but you’ve found some good ones here! The fred and ginger coffee place looks so good x
Velvet Blush