Always on the look out for non-franchised, independent places to enjoy a relaxing coffee and slice of cake, we stumbled across Café on the Water on the back of an Essex and Suffolk Water leaflet that came with a water rates bill.
We buzzed there today, and although not a typically sunny summer afternoon, sitting on the wooden-decked terrace was really rather nice. On a warm and balmy blue-skied day it would be almost perfect. The ‘on the Water’ bit refers to the fact that this independent café is located on the edge of Hanningfield Reservoir, six miles south east of Chelmsford.
The expanse of water is, of course, owned by the East Anglian water company, and presumably, the café is leased from them by the company running it. No matter though; the service and selection of goodies available should offer something for most tastes and budgets.
Specialising in more traditional offerings, our toasted teacake and toffee muffin with lattés were very tasty, and very reasonably priced. Sitting looking out at the small-engined boats gently bobbing up and down on each side of the jetty that stretched out into the water in front of us, we forgot our cares of the world for half an hour or so.
Also offering hold and and cold meals, snacks, and drinks for all the family, the Café on the Water really is something different in the Chelmsford area, and easily beats the Costa, Caffé Nero, and Starbucks that cluster around the town centre.
Hanningfield Reservoir is renowned for its important populations of wildfowl, and offers reservoir trout fishing facilities, as well as the Essex Wildlife Trust visitor centre and wildlife walks, so there should be enough to fill if not a day, then at least an interesting afternoon.
It’s worth a visit for the Café on the Water alone, though. If you find yourself in the area, and don’t fancy calorific Mochacappafrappulattés, then drop by. You won’t be disappointed.
Tags: East Anglia, Essex, Independent Coffee Shops