There’s something about October that makes a cosy café even more inviting. Whether you’re after a quick caffeine fix, a lazy brunch with friends, or a laptop-friendly corner, the neighbourhoods of Highams Park, Woodford and South Woodford are buzzing with local gems.
☕ Coffee & Brunch Spots to Try This Autumn in Highams Park, Woodford & South Woodford
There’s something about October that makes a cosy café even more inviting. Whether you’re after a quick caffeine fix, a lazy brunch with friends, or a laptop-friendly corner, the neighbourhoods of Highams Park, Woodford and South Woodford are buzzing with local gems. Here’s a round-up of the best spots to check out this month.
🌳 Highams Park Favourites
Humphry’s Café, The Highams Park
📍 The Highams Park, Henry’s Ave, IG8 9RB
Set right by the lake, this café is as much about the view as it is about the coffee. Perfect for families after a weekend stroll.
Biba & Wren, Hale End Road
📍 483 Hale End Rd, E4 9PT
An Instagram-worthy brunch spot, serving pastries, hearty breakfasts and smooth coffee. Great for meeting friends or getting some creative work done.
Karya Bistro, Hale End Road
📍 428 Hale End Rd, E4 9PB
Opens early in the week — ideal for commuters. Expect Mediterranean twists on brunch classics, plus a warm, modern interior.
Smile Avenue Café, The Avenue
📍 7 The Avenue, E4 9LB
This one’s for the early risers: doors open at 6am on weekdays. A reliable pit stop for coffee and breakfast on the go.
🌿 Woodford Highlights
Mojos Brasserie
📍 421-423 High Road, Woodford Green, IG8 0XG
A stylish brasserie serving everything from full English breakfasts to cocktails. Think polished interiors, friendly service and a menu that works equally well for brunch or a relaxed dinner.
Lemon Seed Café
📍 425 High Road, Woodford, IG8 0XG
Known for fresh, locally-sourced food — their sandwiches and salads are perfect for a lighter lunch. It’s bright, airy and a lovely place to sit down with friends.
Honey I’m Home Coffee
📍 451 High Road, Woodford Green, IG8 0XE
A family-run coffee shop with serious attention to detail. Expect organic beans, sourdough bakes, and cakes that disappear fast. It’s the kind of place where you can pop in for takeaway or stay a while with a book.
Bread & Marmalade Café
📍 Woodford Broadway
Famed locally for its cakes and brunch options, this cosy café is one to linger in on a rainy day.
🌆 South Woodford Picks
Café Royale
📍 65 George Lane, E18 1JJ
A reliable favourite, serving hearty breakfasts, pancakes, and fresh juices. Bustling in the mornings but perfect if you’re after a proper sit-down start to your day.
Fresh as a Daisy Café & Diner
📍 11 Mulberry Way, E18 1EB
This one’s a gem for its long opening hours — from 6am until 10pm most days. Ideal for an early coffee, a mid-morning catch-up, or even a casual evening bite.
🔎 Best Picks for Every Mood
Early birds: Smile Avenue, Station Café (Highams Park), Fresh as a Daisy (South Woodford).
Scenic & family walks: Humphry’s Café in Highams Park.
Instagram brunch: Biba & Wren, Mojos Brasserie.
Pastry & coffee fix: Honey I’m Home.
Work-friendly afternoons: Highams Lounge, Lemon Seed, Café Royale.
Late options: Fresh as a Daisy keeps the lights on until 10pm.
With autumn leaves falling and a crisp chill in the air, now’s the perfect time to discover a new favourite café. Whether you’re walking the dog in Highams Park, catching up with friends in Woodford, or planning a late breakfast in South Woodford, there’s plenty to keep your cup full.