Get your caffeine fix, enjoy global cuisine or taste regional brews in a micropub
Northumberland’s county town is one of the most charming in the region; Morpeth’s bustling high street boasts many independent shops and businesses, lovely Carlisle Park has attractive woodland walking trails alongside the River Wansbeck, and the wild beauty of the Northumberland National Park is just a short drive away.
It’s fair to say that if you’re looking for a caffeine injection you’re spoiled for choice. If it’s decadent cakes and pastries you’re looking for, Gran Caffé Lollo’s talented pastry team lovingly craft their sweet creations by hand and it’s a winner for brunch too; FIKA Gallery boasts contemporary art and gifts from North East artisans alongside light lunches and tempting treats, and they run arty workshops in the evenings; while Morpeth Larder has a large sandwich menu, their quiches and pies are top notch and there’s a pantry and gift shop stocking delicious things.
At The Market Place you’ll find a warm and inviting modern café with a brunch-style menu and occasional events; Sober In The Garden, tucked away down Wheatsheaf Yard, is a colourful, greenery-filled gem with a delightful breakfast and brunch menu which nods to the owner’s Greek background. There’s old school comfort food like traditional roasts and pies at The Old Bakehouse; while if it’s characters of a different nature you’re after, settle in with a good book at House of Stories, where you can sup an expertly made coffee while perusing their range of new and pre-loved books.
If lunch (or cake!) on the fly is required, Morpeth boasts two superb artisan bakeries. You can’t miss the vibrant colours of Pink Lane Bakery, where you’ll find a large range of pastries, cakes and freshly baked bread – their sourdough is a cut above. Over the road, Adam’s Bakehouse is often marked by a snaking queue of people lining up for their sweet and savoury creations (get the monkey bread).
For a superlative sandwich, head to The Pressed Club who use local suppliers (including Adam’s bread) for their seasonal menu of sandwiches, plus there’s matcha and coffee.
If you’re looking for treats to take home, Morpeth’s foodie shops cover all major bases. You’ll find Belgian chocolates at Carousel of Chocolates; fine wines and spirits at Grape & Grain; Enjoy! has a huge beer selection and is particularly strong on local breweries (there’s tastings of meads and spirits too); while The Cheese Shop is ideal for stocking your festive cheese board, their huge range of local cheeses come complete with tasting notes, assorted accompaniments and even pretty crockery to put it on.
For a small town, Morpeth’s restaurant scene is surprisingly multicultural. There’s bistro-style dining at Pleased To Meet You, a buzzy destination for cocktails, grazing slates and home comforts alongside a daytime tea room. Barluga boasts an imaginative menu of modern British cuisine; there’s authentic Italian pizza and pasta at Lollo Rosso; Mediterranean dishes are inspired by the Greek islands at Niko’s Greek Taberna and there’s Turkish cuisine at Ephesus.
You’ll find flavourful crusts, inventive toppings and delicious small plates at neighbourhood pizzeria Olive & Co.; and on the outskirts of town, The Sun Inn has a menu of grills, traditional pub food and great Sunday lunch.
If you’re looking for something spicier, there’s plenty of choice. Savoy by Le Raaj offers a menu of contemporary Indian cuisine in refined surroundings; Manzil is renowned for its tandoori dishes; Kaani by Amran’s is a modern Bangladeshi restaurant; while Nadon Thai is the place to try traditional Thai dishes.
Morpeth boasts several micropubs which focus on locally brewed craft beer in relaxed surroundings. One Hop serves craft ales alongside smash burgers; Oldgate Tavern has rotating beer and cider taps alongside fine wine and Pink Lane pies; The Office prides itself on real ales and award-winning cider; and The Toll House is a dog-friendly cosy gem serving everything from draught beers to fancy gin.
