A Somerset coffee shop near Taunton, described as a “beautiful hidden gem”, has been named as one of the best in Britain.
Meadow in Bishops Lydeard was featured as part of a list from The Telegraph, which asked a selection of its writers to name what they consider to be the best coffee shop in Britain.
The publication decided to create the article in response to the world’s top 100 coffee shops being announced at the annual CoffeeFest in Madrid back in February.
Only two of those were located in Britain, so they wanted to highlight the “excellent coffee destinations” that could be found here.
The full list of the best coffee shops in Britain can be found on The Telegraph.
Why is Meadow among Britain’s best coffee shops?
Restaurant critic William Sitwell championed Meadow for being a “place of warmth and charm” and for its courtyard, which feels like a “Spanish hacienda” in the summer.
He added: “Meadow, near Bishops Lydeard by the West Somerset Quantocks, makes espresso from its striking Conti CC100.
“It’s an Italian beast and the beans are from nearby Wellington’s Brazier Coffee Roasters.
“They are a blend of Brazilian, Rwandan and Ethiopian and, as I like it black, I appreciate the notes of caramel and red berry.”
In terms of food, he was a big fan of the damson Bakewell slice and Somerset apple cake.
Meadow was only opened back in August last year, taking over the site from Podshavers Restaurant, which shut in 2024.
Its website shares that it aims to be a place where people can “enjoy great coffee and food in beautiful surroundings”.
The cafe can be found on East Lydeard Farm, with Meadow being opened by Amy and Olly Lewis.
Part of the sixth generation on the farm, they want to offer a “fresh take on the farm’s tradition of hospitality”.
The website adds: “Meadow is a relaxed, family-friendly café serving great food, speciality coffee, artisan gelato, and fresh bakes, all rooted in the rhythms of the land around us.
“We’re reimagining our beloved farm as a vibrant, community-focused destination where locals and visitors alike can eat, play, and unwind.”
Food here is “sourced with care” and is “made to be enjoyed in good company”.
A huge variety of cakes, such as chocolate espresso cake, can be found here alongside indulgent breakfasts and generous plates for lunch.
It adds: “Mains are rooted in the season: roasted carrot and coriander soup with sourdough, leek rarebit bubbling with flavour, or our pulled pork piled high with tahini yogurt and sumac onions.”
How do visitors rate Meadow?
Meadow has earned an almost-perfect score from visitors, currently having a 4.9/5 score on Google Reviews from 49 ratings.
One person posted: “This is a beautiful hidden gem.
“The courtyard is perfect for an unwind and enjoy the atmosphere.
“The food is so good, some of the best cafe food I’ve ever had.”
Another customer was very impressed, saying that Meadow’s opening was one
Meadow in Bishops Lydeard has been rated as one of Britain’s best coffee shops (Image: Meadow)
of the best things “that’s happened in the area recently”.
They added: “It’s such a lovely spot which does brilliant coffee and an amazing selection of delicious, very reasonably priced food.”
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Meanwhile, one visitor described it as the “perfect coffee spot”.
Additionally, its “speedy, friendly service” was highlighted as a plus point.
Another person wrote: “We had a fabulous lunch at Meadow Cafe last week.
“The staff were welcoming and efficient, the food was seasonal and delicious and we thoroughly enjoyed relaxing outside in the sunny courtyard.”
What’s your favourite coffee shop in Somerset? Let us know in the comments.