The Coffee Bean

Anyone visiting The Spires won’t have failed to notice this well-established café with its attractive al fresco seating area and steady stream of customers.

The Coffee Bean has a devoted local following who come for good value classic café fare, whether it’s a cooked breakfast, lunchtime panini or bowl of soup, or a coffee break from shopping. Wifi is available, as well as a selection of daily papers.

On my recent visit – a busy Friday lunchtime – I had a succulent salt beef sandwich which was a generous plateful for £5.50, warming and comforting on a wild and windy day. My pot of Earl Grey tea was a fitting accompaniment and my friend who wasn’t in the mood for much to eat enjoyed her almond croissant and tea. The service was friendly and efficient – you need to place your orders at the counter – however, it’s more relaxing away from peak times.

Coffee Bean is one of the few remaining independently owned cafés in the town centre. Despite the presence of the big coffee chains, it’s reassuring to see that The Coffee Bean’s popularity hasn’t been dented and it’s a solid choice if you’re anyway near The Spires.