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A guide to independent cafés across Newark and Sherwood

Two coffee mugs toasting.

When you need a caffeine boost to help fuel your adventures, you’ll find no shortage of independent cafés across Newark and Sherwood.

Whether you're looking for the perfect coffee break or a relaxing spot to unwind, Newark and Sherwood is home to a fantastic selection of independent cafés. Enjoy expertly crafted drinks, warm hospitality and the creativity of passionate local baristas. 

Here are some of our favourite independent cafes in Newark and Sherwood, each offering cosy interiors, friendly service and delicious drinks.​

Fables Coffee House

Fables latte art

Nestled in the heart of Edwinstowe, Fables Coffee House is a welcoming independent café serving homemade food, freshly baked cakes and excellent coffee. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast, lunch or a well-earned sweet treat, you'll find the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for catching up with friends or taking a break from exploring the area.

Located within The Old Library, Edwinstowe, Fables has become a popular community hub, offering a menu packed with freshly prepared favourites alongside vegan, vegetarian and free-from options. Fables is also dog-friendly and highly accessible, so everyone can enjoy this spot.

The Crumbly Bun

Crumbly Bun cakes display

For those with a sweet tooth, The Crumbly Bun is a must-visit when exploring Newark Market Place. This independent bakery and coffee shop serves an irresistible selection of baked treats alongside quality coffee and matcha, making it the perfect place to pause during a day of shopping or sightseeing.

Alongside its tempting cakes and pastries, The Crumbly Bun also offers savoury options for a light lunch or snack. With a welcoming atmosphere, dog-friendly and accessible facilities, it's easy to see why this charming café is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Gannets café

Gannets Cafe exterior

Gannets café has been family-owned for more than 40 years and continues to delight customers with its warm welcome and delicious seasonal menu. Situated in Newark town centre, it's the ideal place to enjoy lunch, coffee and cake, or simply relax and watch the world go by.

Proudly championing locally sourced and organic ingredients, Gannets has built a reputation around its signature dishes and commitment to quality. With vegetarian, vegan and free-from options available, there's something for everyone at this much-loved independent café.

Governor's House Café & Deli 

Governors House Café & Deli

Step back in time while enjoying a modern pick-me-up at Governor’s House Café & Deli. Nestled right in the heart of Newark-on-Trent, its building oozes historic charm before you even step through the door with its striking, timber-framed Tudor exterior.

Inside you’ll find daily selections of towering scones, homemade cakes, and freshly baked savouries. Every lunch is made to order, reflecting a true commitment to fresh, delicious food.

Green Olive 

Green Olive inside

This delightful café-deli-bistro brings vibrant and healthy Mediterranean delights directly to Newark’s historic town centre.

Known for its friendly, upbeat atmosphere, it is the ultimate spot to slow down and refuel during a day of sightseeing. The menu is packed with wholesome, fresh Mediterranean dishes. When the weather behaves, their lovely outdoor seating area is the perfect destination for an alfresco coffee, a bite to eat, and some premium views against Newark Market Place.

Learn more about Green Olive.

Café Nineteen20 

Café Nineteen20

Café Nineteen20 is a cosy retreat found inside Newark's magnificent Palace Theatre. Taking its stylish name from the theatre's original opening year, the café is a great spot to grab a drink before catching a show, exploring the town, or finishing up a tour of the National Civil War Centre next door.

The café is celebrated for its accessibility, offering step-free lift access, generous room for wheelchair users, and plenty of space for pushchairs. Families can also make use of their affordable kids' menu, highchairs, and baby-changing facilities.

Foodies will love their barista coffees, light lunches, and homemade cakes. There’s also plenty of fresh gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options on hand. 

Gossips Coffee House 

Gossips

If your travels take you into the picturesque minster town of Southwell, make sure Gossips Coffee House is high on your list. This classic independent tea room and coffee shop truly lives up to its name, boasting a wonderfully social, chatty atmosphere where locals and visitors naturally cross paths.

Specialising in comforting home cooking alongside great coffee and teas, it’s a beautifully cosy place to unwind and recharge your batteries after exploring Southwell's boutique independent high street.

Reg Taylor's Garden Centre 

Reg Taylor's Garden Centre

The fully licensed tearoom at Reg Taylor’s Garden Centre combines a love for great food with beautiful country views. The stunning grounds makes recharging here feel like a proper retreat. They serve up everything from satisfying breakfasts and seasonal lunches to traditional afternoon teas.

If you're visiting on a Sunday, they even offer classic roast dinners. Best of all, the café has plenty of seating for any weather. Choose a cosy indoor table, soak up the fresh air out on the patio, or relax under a beautiful garden gazebo. 

Find more cafés in Newark and Sherwood

We’ll be adding new independent cafés regularly, so be sure check back for more. If you can’t wait, check out all cafés across Newark and Sherwood by clicking the link below.

Cafés in Newark and Sherwood