Blakeman’s cafe is cosy and rustic but airy due to the high ceiling and window, letting in lots of light. But if you prefer a darker, more intimate corner, you’ll find a comfy sofa and an open fireplace at the back of the cafe. Fantastic art for sale from local artists fills the walls, and the soft background music adds to the tone and texture of the place.
Whilst having breakfast with her family, a little girl counted all the art pieces on display – there were sixty-one. Her mom confirmed that she was a great counter, and the count was accurate. I struck up a conversation with them, and they mentioned they were on holiday in Church Stretton. Meanwhile, the dad noticed the price of scrambled eggs on the menu – £2.50 – and jokingly expressed his excitement saying how cheap it was compared to London. I decided to try the scrambled eggs as well, and they were definitely worth the price. They were soft, fluffy, rich, and indulgent, probably made with cream. I have trouble scrambling eggs, so having someone else make them always feels like a treat. I don’t want to learn to make them better myself; it would take away the joy of going out for breakfast and enjoying a taste of sunshine on a plate.
You can order all the usual coffee-based options, and if you take it away, you can also pick up an EcoSip mug made from bamboo composite material, great coffee with less waste.
A woman sitting nearby asked me, “How are the eggs?” “Superb,” I responded. She mentioned that she usually just stopped by the cafe for coffee, but since everyone else was talking about the eggs, she decided to give them a try. She continued chatting, and I learned that her name was Julie. She had voluminous, thick, shoulder-length blond hair and was around 60 yearsvery friendly, and I enjoyed talking to her. She told me about her travels, having lived in Switzerland, the United States, Hampshire, and a few other places. She had settled in Church Stretton after moving there to help a relative who, unfortunately, had passed away, leaving her alone. Despite this, her kind, caring, and bubbly nature made it clear that she wasn’t often lonely. Before leaving, Julie pointed at the brownies and made a face that said, “You should try them; they’re delicious.” old. Julie was
There are so many mouth-watering cakes to chooseace – cream teas, sponges, biscuits, cupcakes, brownies, and more. These options are complemented by an extensive brunch menu and a tasty selection of gluten-free, vegan products, and three types of milk, with no additional charge. All the cakes are freshly made on the day by Jo and her husband, who also make sizzling sausage rolls. from at this pl
I always feel excited but cautious when I see a chocolate brownie on the counter. Will it taste as good as it looks? Despite my uncertainty, with Julie’s recommendation, I decided to go for it. Brownies seem simple to make, but like eggs, they are not something I’ve ever perfected. However, Jo has mastered the art of making brownies. The brownie was the perfect combination of dense and moist, bursting with chocolate flavor. I wanted another one, but I thought it might be too greedy. I’ll definitely be back, and next time, instead of coffee, I’ll choose one of the many Teapig Teas available – such as Honeybush & Rooibos, Earl Grey, Everyday Brew, Peppermint Leaves, or Superfruit – to go with my brownie.
Jo had lovely warm hazel eyes and a smile I could only imagine (hidden behind her mask). She told me that she loved being behind the counter, meeting people from all walks of life.
The cafe is at the bottom of the High Street – no 54. Church Stretton is a bustling market town in Shropshire. The town is nicknamed Little Switzerland because of the view of hills that sweep around the town – an area of outstanding natural beauty. Blakeman’s is always busy with locals, tourists, cyclists and walkers. There’s a farmers market on Thursdays, and it is a great base to stay if you are off on a hike or two. If you forget to pack a picnic for your walk, Blakeman’s hire a pack for £25 (plus a $25 refundable deposit). You can customise food and drink for an additional cost.
The cafe welcomes all including the four legged hairy variety and the very friendly Jo and her staff will help you with any information about the area as much as they can and of course, serve up a great cup of coffee.
Sounds like a friendly place with lots of chatty people I like the sound of that. I can’t make brownies right either so I’m trying a brownie if I ever visit, which after reading all about it I probably will.
You’d love it. We will go together and scoff brownies haha. Thanks for your lovely comment ❤️
Sounds wonderful! I’ll join you & Zena really soon!!!!
Can’t wait! Thanks for your comment Lisa x
I’ve been to this place and it really is lovely!the panini i had was amazing and the ambiance was cozy and intimate. What i loved about it more are the paintings/canvass on the walls that are actually for sale! Thanks for featuring this cafe in Church Stretton Haze! thumbs up!
I can imagine us both sat sipping coffee and writing there Lee. We should go sometime xxx
Love reading all your stuff, I want to go to the cafe. Your a very very talented lady 🥰🥰
Thank you so much Carol. Can’t wait to go with you. 🥰🌼