With the weather turning unseasonably balmy – hello, climate crisis – this may be the perfect week to explore the plethora of local parks with cafes.
Taking a five-miles-from-Finchley approach, here are 7 park cafes serving coffee and other goodies:
1: Friends of Friary Cafe, 133A Torrington Park, London N12 9AN
A newly opened cafe in Friary Park. Launched last week, serving teas, coffees, drinks, kids meals and occasional waffles. Fresh patisserie from Holtwhites artisan bakery in Palmers Green.
A great team of locals. Katya, Anna and Sultan are committed to serving the Friary Park community. The cafe inside the building is closed while the Council reviews the structural issues.
2: Stephens House and Gardens , 17 East End Road, N3 3QE
Stephens House and Gardens is a Grade ll listed house with extensive landscaped gardens, gifted by Henry Charles ‘Inky’ Stephens of the Stephens’ Ink Company. Insta.
Great cafe in the former stables. It is open 9:00 am – 2:00 pm on weekdays, and from 10:00 am on weekends.
3: Cherry Tree Cafe, Cherry Tree Wood, East Finchley, N2
It serves allpressespresso, gelato, and homemade cakes, with vegan options, seasonal dishes, and love & hugs. Insta.
4: Golders Hill Park Cafe, Golders Hill Park, NW3 7HD
Sit down and grab a bite to eat at Golders Hill Park Café. A range of hot and cold meals, snacks, and drinks for you to enjoy during your trip to the park. There are queues for ice-cream once it gets warm.
5: Old Courthouse Cafe Barnet, Next to 29 Wood Street, Chipping Barnet
A beautiful café located in The Old Courthouse Recreation Grounds, Chipping Barnet, with inside/outside seating available in the enclosed gardens.
It serves freshly baked goods, sandwiches, and great coffee. It’s currently open Monday to Friday.
6: Lauderdale House Cafe, Highgate Hill, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG
Open 9:00 am to 4.30 pm. With direct access onto Waterlow Park, the cafe at Lauderdale House is a popular spot with dog walkers, park users, and local residents.
It serves teas, coffees, breakfast pastries, cakes, snacks, and hot food.
7: Pavillion Cafe Highgate Woods. Muswell Hill Road, N10 3JN
It’s all about the food. Fresh, fabulous, and al fresco dining at Pavillion Cafe in Highgate Woods.
Why not sit, sip, and reflect. ☕