Here’s what we’ve got for you this week:

There’s no shortage of coffee shops in Epsom. As someone who loves coffee - and has spent far too many hours hopping between them with a laptop - I’ve developed a shortlist of favourites. Each has its own mood, its own little pocket of Epsom life. Here’s where I go, and why.

For Work: Coffee #1
This is my go-to when I need to get things done. It’s cosy without being distracting, and it always feels calm enough to settle in for a few hours of focused work. It’s also perfect for an intimate catch up with friend. Bonus points for the comfy chairs and the small but thoughtful book section.

For the Morning Buzz: GAIL’s
If you want energy with your espresso, head to GAIL’s. In the mornings it’s full of professionals, students, parents, and friends all buzzing about. The plants, the atmosphere, and the genuinely lovely staff give it that metropolitan feel. It’s on the pricier side, but you’re paying for vibe as much as caffeine. And yes, you can get work done here too if you snag a table.

For People Watching: Pret
Sometimes you just want to sip and watch the world roll by. Pret in Epsom has some of the nicest seating for that. Grab a coffee, park yourself by the window, and let the flow of the high street keep you entertained.

For Strong Coffee & Cosy Chats: Charlie & Ginger
When you want your coffee to really taste like coffee, Charlie & Ginger delivers. It’s a warm, inviting spot to catch up with a friend or just enjoy a cup that packs a punch.

For the View: Park View Café
Park View Café is a gem for sunny days - outdoor seating that looks out across Alexandra Park. Simple, unfussy, and better with the sun on your face. For something a little quirkier, Costa above Sainsbury’s offers an unlikely treat: a view across to the grandstand at Epsom Downs.

For the Afternoon Wind-Down: The Secret Garden
Tucked away and surrounded by greenery, The Secret Garden is a dreamy afternoon spot. Families, pensioners, and plant lovers gather here, giving it a gentle, social feel. The food’s lovely, and you can even buy a potted plant on your way out - coffee and foliage, what’s not to love?

So what’s the best coffee shop in Epsom? Honestly, it depends on what you need. That’s the joy of this town: whether you’re after focus, energy, sunshine, people-watching, or just a really strong brew, Epsom has the perfect place waiting for you.

Surprised not to see your favourite coffee spot? Reply to this email with your recommendation and I’ll check it out!

Last Friday I made the most of what felt like the final hot day of the year - a glorious 24 degrees - with a trip to Burford Bridge in Dorking. It was my first time there and well worth the £16 entry: a lovely pool, plenty of seating, and beautiful scenery (it’s at the base of Box Hill) that made it feel like a mini-holiday just down the road.

On Monday, I stopped for lunch at Camile Thai in town. Around £8 for fried rice might just be the best value in Epsom, especially when it tastes this authentic. The friendly Thai chef reminded me of the time I’ve spent in Thailand with my girlfriend. We’ll definitely be back. It’s next to our gym too, so I can see it becoming a regular post-workout ritual.

Closer to home, I had a coffee at The Horton. It’s such a beautiful spot - part café, part cultural hub - though I did get a bit chilly, which is why it didn’t make my “best coffee shops” list this week. Still, I love how much goes on there: artisan markets, children’s shows, exhibitions. It really is one of Epsom’s hidden gems and deserves to be better known.

Did you know: Epsom Common is the largest local nature reserve in Surrey, with ancient woodland, rare wildlife, and Bronze Age barrows hidden among the trees?

Thanks for reading this edition of The Epsom Echo - if you have any ideas for stories we could cover or events we should recommend, just hit reply to this email, message us on Instagram, or email us at team@theepsomecho.co.uk

Till next time,