As self-confessed coffee lovers and local explorers, we, Steve and Hanri, have spent many a weekend hunting down the perfect cup in and around Rutland County. Whether it’s a flat white with a Rutland Water view or a rich espresso tucked away in a small town courtyard, we’ve found some real gems worth sharing. If you’re visiting Rutland for the first time (or just fancy upgrading your coffee stop), here are five of our absolute favourite cafes that combine great brews with character, charm, and a proper Rutland welcome.
1. Fika – Oakham & Stamford
Tucked away on Mill Street in Oakham or right on Stamford’s High Street, Fika is a vibrant, independent brunch café run by sibling duo Tia and Ivo. What started as one cosy spot has grown into two buzzing locations – both serving standout coffee, creative brunches, and a seriously tempting selection of homemade bakes. Their mum even leads the bakery team from a converted annex, of which then send out a regular thank you to her! Friendly, stylish, and full of personality, Fika is a must for coffee lovers visiting Rutland.
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High: The atmosphere — Fika nails the balance between cool and welcoming, with great music, friendly staff, and a real independent vibe that’s hard to beat. -
Low: It can get busy, especially at weekends, so be prepared to wait for a table or grab your coffee to go if you're in a rush.
2. The blonde beet in Stamford
Nearly taking the top spot, The Blonde Beet stands out for its exceptional food and full-flavoured, entirely plant-based menu. As Stamford’s first vegan café and bistro, it brings bold, seasonal dishes and creative bakes to the town’s thriving Green Quarter. The setting is just as appealing — a cosy courtyard and charming 17th-century interior, with organic wines and local brews to match. Whether you’re vegan or just love good food or coffee, this place is a gem.
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Highs: The flavour — every dish feels like a celebration of veg, with layered tastes that surprise and satisfy in equal measure. -
Lows: Limited opening hours mean you’ll want to check ahead — it’s not open every day, and evenings are by booking.
4. Picks Farm - near Pilton
Picks Barn holds a special place in our hearts — we visited once as a quiet farewell with our beloved dog, Chunk. Surrounded by peaceful countryside and with plenty of space to sit outside, it’s a lovely spot if you’re bringing a dog along. We often come here when we want to escape the bustle, enjoy a proper coffee, and take in the calm views over the Chater Valley. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down — and on the way back, we usually swing by Rutland Nursery so Hanri can pick up a few new plants (and usually does!).
- Highs: The rural location — quiet, scenic, and just far enough from the bustle to feel like a proper break.
- Lows: Slightly tucked away, so certainly it’s best visited by car - but well worth the detour.
4. Scandimania Coffee House – Stamford & Uppingham
If you’re wandering the high street in Stamford and torn between Fika and Scandimania — you’re not alone. These two coffee spots are just minutes apart, and both are brilliant. Scandimania wins loyal fans with its perfectly crafted flat whites, welcoming team, and warm, Scandinavian-inspired décor. It’s the kind of place where regulars are on a first-name basis with the barista, and even first-time visitors are made to feel at home. We love grabbing a seat by the window to watch the world go by – especially on a Friday, when the market spills into town and the café buzzes with locals. There’s also a second, quieter branch in Uppingham if you’re exploring further afield.
- Highs: The service — warm, personal, and consistently excellent, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
- Lows: With such a loyal local following, seating can be tight during peak times — but it’s worth the wait.
5. Hambelton bakery cafe. Exton.
A firm favourite with many of our guests at Bee Cottage, Hambleton Bakery’s Exton Café is the perfect stop before heading home – especially if you fancy a final bacon roll with a view. Overlooking open fields, it’s a peaceful and satisfying spot for breakfast, lunch, or just a quick coffee and sweet treat. Their seasonal menu is packed with fresh sandwiches, soups, and some of the best baked goods in the area, all made in-house. It’s also dog-friendly, so your four-legged travel companions are more than welcome to join you, as long as they don’t walk off with your bacon roll!
- Highs: The food - freshly made, honest, and reliably delicious, especially the scones and bacon rolls.
- Lows: It can get busy around lunchtime, so aim for earlier or later if you want a quieter table with a view.
A few final sips
Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or lucky enough to call Rutland home, these five coffee spots each offer something a little special – from countryside calm to high street buzz. Between us, we have sipped, snacked, and sat in all the corners to bring you our personal favourites. So next time you’re in the area (or heading home from Bee Cottage), why not stop off, try something new, and make your own little memory over a great cup of coffee?
