London never disappoints when it comes to great coffee. Every neighbourhood has its own character, its own flavours, and cafés that locals swear by. As someone who loves exploring London on foot, I’ve found that the best coffee experiences usually happen in small, warm, independent cafés where the barista actually remembers your order. Here are 15 coffee shops in London that genuinely deserve your time in 2026— whether you’re a local looking for a new favourite spot or a tourist exploring the city.
1. Monmouth Coffee Company – Covent Garden
If there’s one place that consistently makes it onto every “best coffee in London” list, it’s Monmouth. This place is almost a pilgrimage spot for coffee lovers. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the smell of freshly roasted beans and the sound of baristas who know exactly what they’re doing.
Why people love it:
Their beans are roasted in Bermondsey and change seasonally
The shop has that cozy, old-London charm
Perfect for a quick stop during a Covent Garden walk
Their flat white is one of the smoothest you’ll find
- What to try: A flat white paired with their fresh pastries. Simple but unforgettable.
- Location: 27 Monmouth Street, Covent Garden
- Website: monmouthcoffee.co.uk
2. Kaffeine – Fitzrovia
Kaffeine brings the best of Australian/New Zealand coffee culture to London — meaning everything is done with consistency, precision, and a smile. It’s popular with office workers and freelancers, but visitors are equally welcome.
Why it stands out:
Expertly crafted espresso drinks
Great spot if you appreciate minimalist, clean interiors
Their banana bread is famous in Fitzrovia
Quick, friendly service even during busy hours
- Tip: Morning visits are quieter. Around lunchtime, expect a queue.
- Location: 66 Great Titchfield Street
- Website: kaffeine.co.uk
3. Prufrock Coffee – Leather Lane (Holborn)
Prufrock is where you go if you take your coffee seriously. Founded by world-class baristas, this café focuses on brewing techniques, specialty beans, and a relaxed vibe that encourages you to slow down and enjoy your drink.
Why it’s a must-visit:
Known for their barista training and perfectly balanced coffee
Excellent pour-overs and filter coffee
Calm environment — great for reading, writing, or working
Large space, which is rare for central London
- What to try: Filter coffee or a single-origin espresso if you like bold flavours.
- Location: 23–25 Leather Lane
- Website: prufrockcoffee.com
4. Black Sheep Coffee – Multiple London Locations
Black Sheep is everywhere now — but for good reason. They’re known for using 100% robusta beans, which gives their coffee a much stronger, darker flavour compared to typical Arabica blends. It’s not for everyone, but if you enjoy a strong kick, this is your place.
Why people visit:
One of the few chains with genuinely strong coffee
Great for grab-and-go
Wide food menu (bagels, waffles, smoothies)
Ideal if you’re exploring central London and need a quick caffeine stop
- Best for: Tourists who need something reliable, quick, and strong.
- Popular branch: Wood Street, EC2
- Website: blacksheepcoffee.co.uk
5. Swiss Bread Bakery & Café – Richmond
This café quietly became one of London’s top bakery-style coffee spots. It’s run by two Swiss friends who bring authentic European baking traditions to London — and locals absolutely love it.
Why it’s special:
Award-winning café experience (2025 local awards)
Freshly baked sourdough, pastries, cinnamon buns
Warm, family-friendly feel
Perfect for breakfast or a weekend treat
- What to try: A cappuccino with their cinnamon roll — soft, warm, and baked fresh every morning.
- Location: 175 Ashburnham Road
- Website: swiss-bread.com
6. Origin Coffee Roasters – Shoreditch
Origin is a favourite among London’s specialty-coffee crowd. They roast their own beans in Cornwall and bring them straight to their London cafés. The Shoreditch branch has a clean, modern look — perfect for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship in every cup.
Why it’s worth visiting:
Single-origin beans with rich flavour profiles
Friendly baristas who explain the coffees if you’re curious
Bright, spacious space — great for remote workers
Strong emphasis on sustainability
- What to try: A V60 or Chemex brew if you enjoy clean, balanced flavours.
- Location: 65 Charlotte Road, Shoreditch
- Website: .origincoffee.co.uk
7. The Attendant – Fitzrovia
The Attendant is one of the most unique cafés in London because it’s built inside a restored Victorian public restroom — yes, really! But don’t let that scare you off. It’s one of the coziest underground cafés in the city and serves excellent food.
What makes it special:
Unique Victorian interior that you won’t find anywhere else
High-quality coffee roasted in-house
Amazing brunch and sandwiches
Popular spot for creatives and London locals
- What to try: Their signature latte + the pulled pork bun (fan favourite).
- Location: 27A Foley Street
- Website: the-attendant.com
8. WatchHouse Coffee – Tower Bridge
WatchHouse (often called “Modern Coffee”) has become one of London’s fastest-growing premium cafés. The Tower Bridge location is stunning — perfect for tourists who want a great coffee with a riverfront walk.
Why people love it:
Very modern design and calm interior
Clean-tasting, high-quality brews
Great pastries and cakes
Perfect for photos, making it Discover-friendly
- What to try: Their batch brew or a mocha — silky, smooth, and well-balanced.
- Location: 37 Shad Thames
- Website: watchhouse.com
9. Caravan Coffee Roasters – King’s Cross
Caravan is half café, half restaurant — and the coffee side is extremely respected. Their King’s Cross branch is huge, lively, and great for groups. If you’re visiting London for the first time, this place gives you a perfect blend of atmosphere + food.
Why it stands out:
Excellent brunch menu (very popular on weekends)
Coffee roasted by Caravan’s own team
Spacious and stylish interior
Close to Coal Drops Yard, making it great for sightseeing
- What to try: Their brunch + a flat white or a cold brew during summer.
- Location: 1 Granary Square, King’s Cross
- Website: caravanrestaurants.co.uk
10. Ozone Coffee Roasters – Old Street
Ozone is a New Zealand–founded roastery that has become a cult favourite in London. If you want a place that feels alive — buzzing, energetic, and full of great smells — this is it.
Why it’s worth the stop:
Coffee roasted on-site (you can sometimes watch the process)
Big, open industrial-style space
Amazing breakfast and lunch dishes
Friendly staff and expert brewing
- What to try: The filter coffee or their long black — rich and bold.
- Location: 11 Leonard Street
- Website: ozonecoffee.co.uk
11. Grind – Soho
Grind has become one of London’s most recognizable modern café brands. Their Soho branch is especially lively — ideal if you like cafés with a bit of energy. Think stylish interiors, neon lights, and coffee made with precision.
Why it’s popular:
Very Instagrammable interior
Smooth, well-balanced espresso drinks
Great place to sit with friends or meet new people
Offers both dine-in and grab-and-go
- Try this: Iced flat white or their house blend cappuccino.
- Location: 19 Beak Street
- Website: grind.co.uk
12. Gentlemen Baristas – London Bridge
This is one of those cafés that blends old-school British charm with modern coffee culture. Wooden interiors, warm lighting, polite service — everything feels thoughtful. Their beans are roasted in-house, and the quality shows.
Why people return:
Rich, traditional-style branding
Reliable espresso and filter options
Peaceful environment for reading or working
Great pastries and scones
- Try this: A latte with their honey-glazed bun — perfect morning combo.
- Location: 63 Union Street
- Website: thegentlemenbaristas.com
13. Redemption Roasters – Holborn
This café has a meaningful story: their roastery is inside a UK prison where they train inmates in professional coffee skills. The result? Exceptional coffee with a mission behind it — and customers love supporting it.
Why it stands out:
Unique social impact model
Exceptionally trained baristas
Bright, minimal, modern interior
High-quality pastries and light bites
- Try this: A flat white or cortado — consistently excellent.
- Location: 84 High Holborn
- Website: redemptionroasters.com
14. Notes Coffee Roasters – Trafalgar Square
Notes is known for combining specialty coffee with a wine-bar vibe. During the day, it’s calm and bright; in the evening, it becomes atmospheric. Their Trafalgar Square branch is ideal for tourists visiting nearby museums and landmarks.
Why it’s a great pick:
Specialty brews roasted in-house
Quiet mornings, lively evenings
Spacious seating (rare in central London)
Great location near major attractions
- Try this: A filter coffee — rich, smooth, and very clean.
- Location: 31 St Martin’s Lane
- Website: notescoffee.com
15. Department of Coffee and Social Affairs – Spitalfields
Often called “DOCASA,” this café is known for its rich, dark espresso and slightly industrial interior. It’s a favourite among office workers and locals around Spitalfields Market.
Why people love it:
Strong, bold espresso
Perfect stop after browsing Spitalfields Market
Friendly staff and fast service
Comfortable seating
- Try this: Americano or espresso — their strong side is bold flavours.
- Location: 6 Lamb Street
- Website: departmentofcoffee.com
Final Thoughts
London’s coffee culture is constantly evolving, and that’s exactly what makes exploring it so exciting. Whether you prefer cozy independent cafés, modern specialty roasters, or quick grab-and-go spots near top attractions, the city has something for every taste. The places listed above aren’t just “good”—they each offer a unique experience that reflects London’s diverse neighbourhoods and vibrant food scene.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to visit coffee shops in London?
Most specialty cafés in London are busiest between 9 AM – 11 AM. If you want a quiet experience, visit early mornings or mid-afternoons (2 PM – 4 PM). Weekend brunch hours are usually crowded.
2. Do London coffee shops offer plant-based milk options?
Yes. Almost every café—especially specialty coffee shops—offers oat, almond, soy, and coconut milk. Oat milk is the most popular option in London cafés.
3. Are these coffee shops tourist-friendly?
Absolutely. All the cafés listed in this guide are comfortable for tourists. Many are located near popular attractions like Trafalgar Square, Tower Bridge, Covent Garden, and King’s Cross, making them easy to add to your itinerary.
4. Do these cafés offer Wi-Fi for remote work or study?
Most independent coffee shops provide free Wi-Fi, but availability can vary. Places like Ozone, Notes, Origin, and WatchHouse are especially popular among remote workers because of their spacious seating and calm environment.
5. Which London neighbourhood has the best coffee scene?
Shoreditch, Fitzrovia, Soho, and Holborn are known for some of London’s strongest specialty coffee cultures. These areas are packed with both small independent cafés and well-known roasters.
