Boxcar Coffee & Yard

Once my mocha was finally called, I took an edge seat at one of the large campsite-style tables, occupied by two other couples, to conduct a proper assessment of my drink. It felt light as I picked it up and the froth under the lid seemed to confirm the concoction would be underwhelming. And so it was.

Attendant

The wrought-iron caging and narrow staircase decorated in tiles resemble a cross between a tube station and – well, there’s no escaping it – an old-fashioned public toilet; thankfully, the at the end of it the air is full of pleasant aromas of brewed coffee and cheese toasties.

The Coffee Pot

I had no expectations at all, but when the mug arrived, I felt a pang of ease. There was something about the texture of the drink that didn’t feel me with dread, which was a good sign.

Eli’s Crafts, Cakes and Coffee

I decided I had the capacity to try the coffee shop that I had seen signs for on my way – Eli’s Craft, Cakes and Coffee. The town itself was rather quiet (I couldn’t believe it, on a day like that!) and while there were a few covers in the tiny cafe/artisan shop, coming and going, there was still plenty of space outside – a couple of tables at the front, and a whole “Secret Garden” at the back.

The Tartan Pig coffee house

Our drinks arrived first, and I looked at mine in despair. Judging the book by its cover, I was expecting a weak, pale, milky concoction. I gave it a stir and then I spotted bits of melted chocolate on the bottom of the glass – a reassuring sight.