The Kitchen Croxley

The Kitchen is not just a tea-room and coffee shop but also a studio for the cake artists at work here. Cupcakes, cookies, chocolate dripcakes, classic Victoria sponges and their legendary lemon drizzle adorn the counter, served alongside continental breakfasts, panini and bloomer bread sandwiches: try the blue cheese, mango and rocket or free-range egg and mayo. Coffee is smooth and the afternoon tea, with bottomless teapots, is highly recommended so book ahead if you’ve time for a longer stop.

It’s a family business which shows in the cheerful, accommodating service; they even baked a special batch of scones for one customer who was sorry to miss them. They support and welcome community groups such as the local book club, and ‘Knit and Natter’ for the local hospice.

There’s a licensed bar too so non-drivers can savour a craft beer or try a cheeky cocktail for the road. Parking is available in the bays adjacent, in Croxley Station opposite or at the car park adjacent to the Red House pub just down the road.