Devon Cafes & Coffee Shops: Cosy Spots for Chilly Winter Days
- Ellie
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
As the weather turns cooler and Devon slips into winter, there’s no better time to retreat into a warm Devon cafe with a great cup of coffee (and a delicious treat or two!). Whether you’re a local looking for a new favourite spot or a visitor exploring the county’s cosy corners, you’ll find plenty of independent Devon cafe options that pair perfectly with a winter stroll.
Here are some of the county’s best independent coffee shops and cafés, ideal for enjoying delicious brews, homemade cakes, and a warm welcome across the region.
The Glorious Art Cafe – Exeter
Colourful, eclectic, and filled with creative energy, The Glorious Art Cafe offers a quirky escape from the cold. In the cooler months, its cosy indoor vibe and bright décor make it a cheerful haven. A great example of a Devon cafe that brings personality to your day.
Seasonal highlight: Their Glorious Hot Chocolate – or upgrade to an Extra Glorious one with pistachio, hazelnut, or caramel.
Café Liaison – Tavistock
Located on Church Lane beside the historic St Eustachius Church, Café Liaison is a charming, family-run spot known for its brunch, lunches, and relaxed atmosphere.
Seasonal highlight: In autumn and winter, their warm toasties, soups, and hot drinks offer a comforting break after exploring Tavistock’s market or winding streets.
The Blue Walnut Café – Torquay
A cosy, character-filled independent café and mini-cinema, The Blue Walnut is a warm, creative hub tucked away from Torquay’s bustle. It’s well-known for homemade cakes, great coffee, and a relaxed artistic vibe - everything you could hope for in a snug Devon cafe on a chilly day.
Seasonal highlight: Specials such as their Newfoundland-style creamy seafood chowder with warm sourdough. Or drop in for one of their popular open-mic nights.
The Coffee Cabin – Appledore
This welcoming little spot on Appledore Quay offers friendly service and excellent coffee. With soft lighting and a warm interior, it’s a wonderful place to shelter from blustery estuary winds.
Seasonal highlight: Their delicious cakes and locally loved crab sandwiches, best enjoyed with views across the water.
The Hairy Barista — Totnes
A fully plant-based independent café centred around community and sustainability. The Hairy Barista serves speciality coffee, superfood lattes, nourishing soups, buddha bowls, and sweet treats. It’s a vibrant Devon cafe that attracts those who enjoy wholesome, creative food.
Seasonal highlight: Their medicinal teas and warming plant-based soups - ideal when the temperature drops.
Le Cygne – Dawlish
This charming independent café on Dawlish’s Strand combines Australian-style brunch with a French twist. With friendly staff and rich, barista-brewed coffee, it’s a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike.
Seasonal highlight: As the seaside breeze cools, their warm brunch dishes - like sweet potato hash and avocado toast - and steaming drinks offer the perfect winter retreat.
The Mad Merchant Coffee House – Plymouth
A family-run café set inside a 16th-century merchant’s house just off the Barbican. The Mad Merchant is known for its warm welcome, hearty breakfasts, flavourful lunches, and wide variety of coffees and teas.
Seasonal highlight: Settle into their low-lit, book-filled interior with one of their “Coffees of the World,” such as the Korean whipped dalgona or Turkish cardamom kahve.
The Mad Merchants Coffee House
The Boutport Café – Barnstaple
Welcoming, homely, and proudly dog-friendly, this family-run spot is a favourite among locals. Simple, well-executed food and a cosy atmosphere make it the kind of Devon cafe you’ll want to revisit.
Seasonal highlight: After a frosty morning walk, warm up with a hot drink and a freshly baked scone - or their homemade homity pie - enjoyed from a snug window seat.
The Orangery Cafe @ Bridwell - Cullompton
Set within the peaceful Bridwell Park estate, The Orangery Café is a relaxed, friendly spot known for its great coffee, tasty homemade food, and calm countryside setting. With welcoming staff and stylish, airy interiors, it’s a lovely place to unwind after a walk around the grounds.
Seasonal highlight: Their homemade cakes and cream teas feel especially comforting in the colder months - ideal after exploring the frosty parkland.
Amelia's Pantry, Cofton - Dawlish
Friendly, relaxed spot serving generous homemade meals, sweet treats and good coffee. The offer a warm service, comfortable setting and hearty dishes, making it a great place to unwind after exploring the nearby coast or woodland trails.
Seasonal highlight: After a dip in their pool, settle in with a hot drink and a slice of homemade cake.
Warm Up in Your Favourite Devon Cafe
Whether you’re seeking a snug corner for a quiet coffee or a welcoming spot to enjoy something homemade, Devon is full of independent cafés that shine during the colder months. Each one offers its own charm - from creative community hubs to peaceful countryside hideaways - giving you plenty of cosy places to retreat to this winter.
So next time the weather turns chilly, wrap up warm and treat yourself to a comforting break in a Devon cafe.
