Art & The Secret Garden Cafe

Those with a keen nose for secrets would have already spotted this gem, hidden in plain sight, just up in Far Headingley. But a stone’s throw from Cottage Road Cinema, Sebby’s Deli, Beer Ritz and the other gems in the area, this little shop-​come-​art gallery-​come-​café is a real treat. I’ve wandered by a few times and cursed myself for not having the time to pay them a visit, so on a weekend wander, I made sure to pick this spot for a coffee.
As you go in, there’s a counter of fresh goodies right before you, including home baked cakes at seriously cheap prices. They’ve a deli shelf, with all manner of world-​friendly and nicely made things, such as specialist teas, biscuits, Fentimen’s drinks, and more. It’s a treasure trove of treats, and that’s before you’ve even ventured beyond the initial entry.
It appears to be family-​run, and the friendly chap who served us was incredibly pleasant, smiley, and welcoming. We ordered two coffees, and went through to the dining room area. This gorgeous front room (the café must be a part of their actual home) is beautifully decked out in red and white table cloths, kitsch little things, a cabinet of locally made jewellery, and all manner of local art adorns the walls. Paintings of various styles take up all available space, making this quaint room come alive with colour. I loved it.
Then, you can step through into the secret garden. Literally just across the road at one of the pubs was a crowd of rowdy Otley Runners, and despite still hearing the odd ‘waaaaaay!’, I felt transported elsewhere. Somewhere serene, safe and as the name suggests, secret. The garden is shaded by a huge tree, and it’s a fabulous little spot to sit and enjoy a cuppa.
At the time, there was an unfortunate moment, where a fledgling wood pigeon had fallen to the ground and so the lady (who I assume co-​runs the café) warned us that it was frightened and to watch out for it. The poor thing looked pretty bewildered, fingers crossed it survived the fall and lived to fight another day.
The coffees we enjoyed were fabulous, freshly made, and huge. It’s not often you get such a generous cup, so you’re definitely in for a treat if you’re a caffeine fan. They serve a range of sandwiches made to order, croissants, cakes, and other bites too should you feel peckish. This time, I fancied something more brunch-​y, but I’ll definitely be back soon for a bacon sarnie in the garden!
Needless to say, I’m a real fan. It’s a local family run business, supporting local artists, who frame pictures too, and serve up a great coffee. What’s not to love? Sneak away for a secret moment, it’s worth it.