Top 12 Unique Independent Coffee Shops in London

London boasts an overwhelming number of coffee shops, houses, and bars that grace the streets of this vibrant city. From Notting Hill to Camden, as well as Hackney to Soho and Shoreditch to Covent Garden, it is exceptionally challenging not to find a satisfying Chai Latte, Flat White, or gingerbread latte in a charming and unique environment. Yum! 🙂

Residents of London have the privilege of choosing from a plethora of excellent coffee shops that can be found in close proximity to our locales; however, this abundance of choice can often complicate the task of discovering ‘your’ ideal coffee shop, particularly if you are seeking a more distinctive or independent establishment.

Here are my preferred coffee shops that I strive to visit frequently—they may not possess a sophisticated app or branded mugs for sale, but they will certainly provide excellent coffee, with some even donating all their proceeds to charitable causes! Explore my favorites below.

1.) The Attendant

Explore this underground coffee shop located in a converted Victorian public lavatory! The original urinals and water tanks remain, yet today, The Attendant has transformed into a sophisticated coffeehouse that every visitor and Londoner ought to experience at least once. Aim to visit around 11 am on a weekday when you can typically secure a seat.

This uniquely London approach to coffee culture serves outstanding coffee sourced from Caravan at Exmouth Market. Location: Foley Street, W1.

2.) Change Please Coffee Carts

One of my favorite initiatives I have come across in recent years, if you wish to purchase coffee while ensuring your expenditure contributes positively to the community, consider acquiring a freshly ground coffee from one of the ‘Change Please’ coffee carts located throughout the city.

Each coffee cart is operated and managed by homeless individuals who have been employed to transform the coffee-buying experience into a socially responsible endeavor—similar to ‘Big Issue’ magazine vendors, ‘Change Please’ reinvests its profits to support the homeless while enabling individuals in need to develop new skills as baristas. A truly impactful coffee option! Locations: Throughout London.

3.) Coffee, Cake & Kisses

This café is one of London’s pioneering crowd-funded establishments. It was created to foster connections among individuals, irrespective of their race, sexuality, gender, or nationality.

It features a cozy room for intimate conversations and even provides patrons with the chance to leave their reflections posted on the walls. A truly unique coffee experience in London, where delectable treats are also available. Located on Warren Street, W1.

4.) Watch-house Coffee

Located on Bermondsey Street, the former watch-house was previously utilized to monitor grave-robbers frequenting the adjacent cemetery in earlier centuries. Today, this quaint coffee shop provides an excellent environment to enjoy a meticulously crafted espresso or coffee.

Additionally, it showcases a variety of artwork from local artists. Location: postcode SE1.

5.) The Wren

The Wren is nestled within St Nicholas Cole Abbey, providing a stunning backdrop to sit back, unwind, and appreciate the architecture of this historic structure.

All revenue generated by The Wren supports St Nicholas Abbey and the weekly St Nick’s Talks. Location: postcode EC4V.

6.) NANA

This pop-up coffee venture operates every weekday from 10 am to 3 pm within the historic framework of the Elderfield Pub in East London. NANA was established and is operated by senior community members, fostering interaction among isolated members of society while creating an exceptional coffee experience along with delightful tea offerings. Location: postcode E7.

7.) Kaffeine

Situated in the bustling heart of London, Kaffeine is a cozy coffee shop that embraces the coffee culture reminiscent of Melbourne, Australia.

They also offer a selection of striking desserts. Location: Titchfield Street, W1W.

8.) Southwark Playhouse

Located just off the now-dismantled roundabout at Elephant and Castle, this venue primarily serves as a theatre but also houses one of the most exceptional coffee shops in South London. They offer a delightful selection of reasonably priced coffee. It is an ideal spot to visit on a Saturday afternoon, potentially pairing it with a show or two.

Location: Elephant and Castle.

9.) The Artworks

Another creation in South London, The Artworks located in Elephant and Castle is reminiscent of Box Park in Shoreditch, but is tailored for local enterprises.

Shipping containers have been transformed into an artistic and lively environment for dining, drinking, and celebrating the creativity of this locality.

An excellent venue to discover the right coffee for yourself! Location: Elephant and Castle.

10.) Cabbie Coffee

You might spot Cabbie Coffee at the renowned Camden Market, where a black cab is creatively equipped with coffee machines to prepare an exceptional brew.

During winter, they whimsically serve mulled wine or hot cider as well. Yum!

Location: Camden Market.

11.) Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium

This establishment, which features a plethora of felines, has finally made its mark on London’s Bethnal Green Road. Take an hour to unwind at Lady Dinah’s, enjoy a latte, and revel in the company of your newfound feline companions. 😉

Location: Bethnal Green Road, E2.

12.) Shoreditch Grind

This bustling, late-night café bar is a popular spot to swiftly enjoy a high-quality coffee. It is consistently vibrant, with the Shoreditch Grind establishing itself as an institution in the Old Street area of London.

Alternatively, you may want to visit Greenwich Grind for its delightful café and bar, conveniently situated adjacent to Greenwich Market.