For the true connoisseur in search of the best coffee shops in London, the journey is about more than a caffeine fix—it’s a pilgrimage for the perfect cup. Since its discovery in the 8th century BC, coffee has evolved into an essential part of modern urban life. In London, the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee drifts through cobbled streets and cosy corners, blending seamlessly with the city’s creative and cultural energy. A perfectly crafted cup of coffee not only awakens the senses but also offers a taste of London’s vibrant lifestyle. From charming independent cafés to stylish speciality coffee shops, the city is filled with affordable yet high-quality spots waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for a quiet corner to study, a welcoming place to work, or simply somewhere to unwind with friends, London’s coffee scene has something for everyone. Here are some of the best coffee shops in London, England, you won’t want to miss.
Best Speciality Coffee Shops in London
Nostos
Nostos Coffee is a highly regarded speciality coffee in London, centred around the core concept of “belonging”. The name derives from the Greek word “Nostos”, meaning “homecoming”. Nostos operates two outlets in London: the Battersea branch and the new St. James location. The Battersea venue offers a warm and cosy atmosphere, while the St. James establishment presents a stylish, contemporary aesthetic – each embodying distinct homely and urban styles respectively. Nostos is renowned for its high-quality, in-house roasted beans and innovative brewing techniques. Its signature Flat White, crafted using freeze-distilled milk, delivers a rich and refined flavour profile. Popular offerings include pour-over single-origin coffees, espresso, batch brews, and light bites such as chocolate banana bread. With its friendly staff and attentive service, it stands as an ideal destination for coffee enthusiasts exploring London’s coffee culture.
Address: Next to, Battersea Park Railway Station, 10a Battersea Park Rd, Nine Elms, London SW8 4FF, United Kingdom
6 Orchard Pl, London SW1H 0BF, United Kingdom
Monmouth Coffee
Monmouth Coffee was established in 1978 as a small independent coffee shop in Covent Garden. Named after its original location on Monmouth Street, the café quickly became known for its deep, rich coffee aroma that spills out onto the street. With a commitment to sourcing premium coffee beans and perfecting small-batch roasting, Monmouth Coffee has earned a reputation among locals and visitors alike as one of the best coffee shops in London. Over the years, it has grown steadily through word of mouth, thanks to its exceptional flavours and understated authenticity. The shop offers a carefully curated selection of espresso and filter coffees, alongside freshly baked pastries and its own line of coffee beans for home brewing. A visit to London wouldn’t be complete without stopping by for a cup. Unlike many trendy cafés, Monmouth avoids flashy décor or unnecessary extras. There are no plush sofas, no loud music, and no Wi-Fi — just a focus on the coffee itself. Despite its simplicity, it’s always bustling, especially on weekends. Many customers choose to enjoy their drinks standing at the counter or outside on the benches, leaving only after they’ve finished every last sip, often with a contented smile. Seating inside is limited, and sharing a table with fellow coffee lovers is all part of the charm.
Address: 2 Park St, London SE1 9AB, United Kingdom
27 Monmouth St, London WC2H 9EU, United Kingdom
Rosslyn Coffee
Rosslyn Coffee ranks among London’s most popular speciality coffee shops, having garnered a devoted following among coffee enthusiasts since its opening for its exceptional coffee quality and welcoming atmosphere. Situated at 78 Queen Victoria Street (EC4N 4SJ) in the heart of the City of London, its location is exceptionally convenient, easily accessible for both office workers and students studying or working nearby. The shop centres its philosophy around “speciality coffee”, eschewing ostentatious décor in favour of focusing entirely on the flavour and experience of the coffee itself. Rosslyn Coffee employs diverse roasting techniques, offering a wide selection of filter and espresso-based coffees. It also periodically introduces “off-menu” special or seasonal beans, ensuring regular patrons continually discover new flavours. Consistently delivering exceptional quality and complex flavour profiles, the coffee has earned an excellent reputation within London’s coffee community. Despite its compact footprint, the minimalist modern design, warm lighting, and friendly service create a uniquely cosy atmosphere. Recommended offerings include their pour-over coffee (selected from seasonal beans) or the classic flat white and cappuccino – the latter featuring velvety foam and rich aroma, making it an essential choice for first-time visitors.
Address: 78 Queen Victoria St, London EC4N 4SJ, United Kingdom
118 London Wall, London EC2Y 5JA, United Kingdom
25 Old Broad St, London EC2N 1HQ, United Kingdom
116 Cannon St, London EC4N 6AS, United Kingdom
Leadenhall Market, 15-18 Lime St, London EC3M 7AN, United Kingdom
21 Royal Exchange, London EC2R 8AY, United Kingdom
Square Mile Coffee Roasters
Square Mile Coffee Roasters stands as one of the best speciality coffee roasters in London, renowned for its exceptional roasting techniques and uncompromising pursuit of coffee quality. Established in Walthamstow, East London (E17 5QJ), its main roastery is situated within the Blackhorse Lane industrial estate, serving as the brand’s operational and innovation hub. Unlike typical coffee shops, Square Mile primarily functions as a roastery and wholesale supplier, providing premium beans to numerous renowned cafés across London and globally. Its website offers online bean purchases, subscription services, and coffee equipment selection. The site also features a ‘Where to Drink Our Coffee’ map, enabling customers to locate partner cafés using Square Mile beans. The brand adheres to rigorous bean selection and precise roasting standards, frequently launching seasonal speciality blends that are highly regarded by both coffee professionals and home pour-over enthusiasts. Though the facility itself is not a traditional café, Square Mile’s influence extends far beyond its physical space, establishing it as a defining presence within London’s speciality coffee culture. We recommend trying their single-origin pour-over (Filter) or classic Italian-style milk-based drinks (such as the Flat White). Should you encounter beans processed using special methods (like Natural or Anaerobic), you’ll experience particularly distinctive flavour profiles.
Address: Uplands Business Park, 13 Blackhorse Ln, London E17 5QJ, United Kingdom
18Grams Coffee
18Grams Coffee is an independent coffee shop renowned for its speciality coffee and minimalist aesthetic. Though compact in size, the space is exquisitely appointed, clean and bright, fostering a tranquil and comfortable atmosphere ideal for studying, working or meeting friends. Conveniently located near Greenwich DLR station, 18Grams Coffee is easily accessible. The café specialises in hand-brewed and espresso-based coffees, using premium beans to deliver rich, layered flavours. Paired with intricate latte art and friendly service, it has become a favourite among locals and students. Beyond classics like espresso, flat white, and cappuccino, it offers various single-origin pour-overs and cold brews, alongside plant-based milks such as oat and soy. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout, and some seating areas are pet-friendly – a thoughtful touch.
Address: 23 Lovibond Ln, London SE10 9FY, United Kingdom
Best Independent Coffee Shops in London
WatchHouse
WatchHouse Coffee is renowned for its premium hand-brewed coffee and is recognised as the best independent coffee in London. Each cup is meticulously hand-brewed on-site by experienced baristas, with precise control over grind size, water temperature and brewing time to fully showcase the unique flavour profile of the coffee beans’ origin. The interior design centres on a “Modern Coffee” ethos, blending industrial and natural elements to create a tranquil, comfortable atmosphere ideal for relaxation, socialising or working. WatchHouse operates multiple branches across central London, including Bermondsey, Spitalfields and Marylebone, each embodying both individual character and the brand’s unified aesthetic. Beyond the physical experience, WatchHouse operates an online store where customers can purchase its own selection of roasted coffee beans, professional brewing equipment, and coffee-related books and lifestyle products from around the world. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or a novice, here you can experience London’s unique modern coffee ethos.
Address: Tower Bridge: 37 Shad Thames, London SE1 2NJ
Bermondsey: 199 Bermondsey St, London SE1 3UW
Fetter Lane: 92 Fetter Ln, London EC4A 1EP
St Mary Axe: 70 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8BG
Café Kitsune
Among the best independent coffee shops in London, Café Kitsuné stands out for its perfect blend of fashion, art, and coffee culture. Founded by the French fashion brand Maison Kitsuné, this stylish café first opened in Paris and expanded to London two years ago, bringing its signature Parisian-Japanese charm to the city. The café uses premium coffee beans sourced from Brazil and Manila, known for their rich aroma and smooth flavour. True to its name—”Kitsuné” meaning “fox” in Japanese—the café features a distinctive fox motif throughout its design, from minimalist interiors to its adorable fox-shaped cookies that have become a customer favourite. The relaxed yet chic atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely coffee break, whether you’re enjoying a creamy flat white or pairing your drink with one of their iconic cookies.
Address: 19 Motcomb St, London SW1X 8LB, United Kingdom
Abuelo
Abuelo Coffee is a popular independent coffee shop in London, England, offering the city a distinctive coffee experience. The name ‘Abuelo’, meaning ‘grandfather’ in Spanish, symbolises the warmth of family, the continuity of tradition, and a slower pace of life. The coffee shop sources premium beans from renowned regions worldwide, including Colombia, Brazil, Guatemala, and Ethiopia. Combined with meticulous roasting techniques, this ensures each cup delivers rich aromas and complex flavour layers. The cosy, welcoming interior creates a homely atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends or savouring a moment of quiet solitude.
Address: 26 Southampton St, London WC2E 7RS
The Service
The Service is a unique coffee establishment blending speciality coffee with lifestyle design. Situated on London’s renowned Savile Row, this café offers views of Mayfair through its windows. Its interior exudes refined elegance with a distinct 1950s retro aesthetic. Though compact, the space is thoughtfully arranged, embodying the quintessential sophistication of Britain’s tailoring district. The coffee quality is consistently excellent, with the Flat White widely regarded as the signature drink – smooth in texture, with a perfectly balanced ratio of milk and espresso. Baristas also offer various alternative milk options, such as oat milk, to cater to different taste preferences. Beyond coffee, The Service is equally celebrated for its freshly baked pastries and desserts (including croissants and lemon berry cake), making it an ideal spot for brunch or afternoon tea. Benefiting from its prime location and comfortable ambience, The Service has become a haven for professionals in London’s financial district and fashion circles. Whether you seek to experience British elegance, capture Instagram-worthy moments, or simply savour a cup of premium coffee, The Service stands as an unmissable hidden gem on London’s coffee map.
Address: Savile Row, London W1S 3PP
Grind
Grind is a renowned coffee chain in England, celebrated for its unique positioning as ‘a café by day, a cocktail bar by night’. It seamlessly blends the multifaceted roles of coffee, dining, and social space, infusing urban life with vitality. Grind is a prime destination for Instagram-worthy photo shoots, with locations across London. Each branch features distinct design elements, though all retain the signature neon lighting, making them ideal spots for capturing memorable snaps. The chain uses its own high-quality, house-roasted coffee beans, delivering a smooth, richly aromatic brew. Its signature ‘Grind House Blend’ espresso and flat white are particularly favoured by coffee connoisseurs. Beyond coffee, Grind offers an extensive selection of brunch dishes, desserts, and cocktails—particularly its Espresso Martini, one of the most popular evening drinks. With its premium beverages, prime locations, and distinctive brand atmosphere, Grind has become one of London’s most sought-after coffee and social spaces.
Address: 2 London Brg, London SE1 9RA, United Kingdom
42 Maiden Ln, London WC2E 7LJ, United Kingdom
19 Beak St, Carnaby, London W1F 9RP, United Kingdom
38 Broadgate, London EC2M 2QS, United Kingdom
38 Broadgate, London EC2M 2QS, United Kingdom
34 Royal Exchange, London EC3V 3LT, United Kingdom
Best Instagrammable Cafes in London
Wesley’s Cafe
Wesley’s Café is a fashionable coffee establishment in central London. Situated within Central Hall Westminster, it features a clean, contemporary design with bright, airy interiors, complemented by outdoor seating and a terrace offering views of Westminster Abbey. The menu, curated by Green & Fortune, retains classic coffee beverages while introducing diverse options, including sandwiches, hot dishes, pastries, and afternoon tea sets, to cater to varying needs throughout the day. Pricing remains reasonably accessible, earning favour with both locals and visitors. The refurbishment proved highly successful, elevating the premises to street level with a terrace that enhances natural light and visibility, creating an ideal backdrop for photographs. The murals and terrace views have become particularly popular subjects for snapping pictures.
Address: Central Hall Westminster, Storey’s Gate, London SW1H 9NH, United Kingdom
Aubaine-Selfridges
Aubaine Selfridges, situated on the second floor of London’s iconic luxury department store Selfridges, serves as the perfect mid-shopping respite. Its central location offers direct access to the mall interior, meaning weary shoppers need only take a few steps to settle in for a coffee or exquisite pastry. Renowned for its French flair, Aubaine Selfridges is a popular Instagrammable restaurant in London, boasting refined and elegant interior décor. The most eye-catching feature is the wisteria-themed decoration in the main hall, featuring soft hues and rich layers, creating an excellent backdrop for photos. Wooden tables and chairs paired with beige walls and warm lighting cultivate an atmosphere that is both stylish and cosy. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, enhancing its airy feel and allowing guests to relax while enjoying the street views. Aubaine Selfridges is favoured by both tourists and locals not merely for its prime location, but for its unique blend of shopping, leisure, and dining. It serves as a perfect respite after a tiring shopping trip; a picturesque spot for photographs with its wisteria backdrop; and a satisfying destination for both sweet treats and full meals. Many regard it as an ideal afternoon retreat or meeting spot.
Address: 400 Oxford St, London W1A 1AB, United Kingdom
V&A Cafe
The V&A Cafe, situated within the Victoria and Albert Museum, comprises the main café and the Garden café, and holds the distinction of being the world’s first museum café. The V&A Cafe features several rooms lavishly decorated in Victorian style, such as the Gamble Room, Poynter Room, and Morris Room. These antique rooms boast opulent furnishings, stained-glass windows, and vaulted ceilings, exuding a profound sense of history. Beyond these traditional halls, the Garden café and Patisserie area caters to visitors seeking green spaces and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu offers a diverse selection including hot dishes, sandwiches, salads, pastries (such as scones with clotted cream and jam), alongside signature teas and coffees. For those seeking a distinctive, culturally rich café in London, England—perfect for leisure, socialising, and photography—the V&A Café is an excellent choice.
Address: Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL, United Kingdom
Host Cafe
Host Cafe is a cosy coffee shop in London, situated within St Mary Old Mary Church. Here you’ll find not only standard coffees, teas and pastries, but also a splendid backdrop for Instagram photos. Its soaring Gothic arches and stained-glass windows depicting biblical narratives are truly distinctive, making it well worth a visit even without a coffee. With excellent natural light and an interior blending historical charm with contemporary design, many social media posts feature photos taken beside the church pews, windows, pastries, or coffee.
Address: St Mary Aldermary, Watling St, London EC4M 9BW, United Kingdom
Anya Cafe
Anya Cafe is a charming little spot in London, renowned for its uniquely crafted range of cakes and biscuits, each boasting an utterly delightful design. Influenced by traditional English afternoon tea, Anya Café adds creative flair to the classic experience, incorporating Anya Hindmarch’s signature smiley face motif alongside other whimsical elements. The café serves breakfast, lunch, coffee, and an array of exquisite desserts, some designed by Anya Hindmarch herself. Beyond dine-in options, Anya Café offers meticulous gift packaging for its sweet treats. The café’s décor showcases the brand’s signature style and design details—vintage elements, charming ornaments, colour schemes, and arrangements—alongside an outdoor terrace, window-side lighting, and visually striking cakes and desserts. Many visitors share photos of its ‘cute & whimsical’ treats and décor on social media platforms like Instagram.
Address: 9 Pont St, London SW1X 9EJ, United Kingdom
Conclusion
So, whether you’re seeking the perfect flat white to start your day, a cosy nook to get lost in a book, or a vibrant spot to catch up with a friend, the best coffee shops in London are waiting just for you. Exploring the best coffee shops in London isn’t just about finding the perfect cup—it’s about experiencing the city’s vibrant culture, one sip at a time. So grab a friend, try somewhere new, and let London’s love for coffee warm your day, wherever your adventures take you.
FAQs About Best Coffee Shops in London
London is dotted with thousands of coffee shops, and below are some of the best in my opinion:
- Nostos
- Monmouth Coffee
- Rosslyn Coffee
- Square Mile Coffee Roasters
- 18Grams Coffee
- Café Kitsune
- Abuelo
- The Service
- Grind
- Wesley’s Cafe
- Aubaine-Selfridges
- V&A Cafe
WatchHouse, Café Kitsune, Abuelo, The Service, and Grind are the best independent coffee shops in London—each known for its unique atmosphere, speciality brews, and artisan quality.
Of course, you can find speciality coffee shops in central London. The Service is situated in the heart of London’s West End. Nostos Coffee (Orchard Place, SW1H) is located in the Westminster borough, close to the central area. Monmouth Coffee has outlets in both Covent Garden and the Seven Dials district.
Yes! Many serve freshly baked pastries, brunch plates, or light lunches made with locally sourced ingredients—Abuelo Coffee and Rosslyn Coffee are perfect examples.
