Hidden up a historic passageway, its ancient door leading into the snug cafe, The Bakery On The Hill in Burford is really quite idyllic.
Laid out on two floors, the courtyard outside full of customers enjoying the novelty of the sunshine, it’s an appealing set up, the history oozing out of the walls.
Yes, there’s a new cafe on the block, sister to the hugely successful Bakery on the Water in Bourton-on-the-Water, brought you you by master bakers The Little Bakery Company, ensuring that only the freshest of breads, cakes, pastries and sandwiches are there for the taking, crammed behind the counter in a heady profusion of tantalising offerings.
The staff are hugely welcoming and very helpful, its customers faced with so many goodies to choose from. Sat at a charming table and offered an extensive menu, its was time to whittle it down, and as I was there mid-morning, breakfast seemed like a good place to start.
The bowl of home-made granola with greek yoghurt and fruit, for a very wallet friendly £5.90, was impossible to resist. Generously portioned and vibrant with strawberries, blueberries and honey, the baked sweet aroma of the granola tangible, it was a great start.
Then a pastry – the almond croissant (£3.60), thick with frangipane and flaked nuts – and a wonderful strong, rich coffee, beautifully designed by the barista.
In the end we stayed so long, working in the communal atmosphere, we managed to extend our visit to lunch, so went straight onto one of the many mid-day options in the counter – the mozzarella, tomato and pesto melt served with crisps and salad (£9.20), another ample portion bursting with stringy cheese, juicy tomatoes and tangy pesto.
The cafe had filled up by the time I left with friends catching up, couples chatting, and mums with pushchairs snatching a quick bite to eat, happy in the antiquated space.
And while Burford is already gifted with cafes and tea shops, the Bakery On The Hill offers an authentic and pleasurable alternative that fits in perfectly with the bustling town, whether you pop in for a fresh loaf of bread, breakfast, lunch or even a cuppa.
Bakery On The Hill, 53 High St, Burford OX18 4QA. https://www.bakeryonthehill.co.uk
