The Best Cafes in Alton, Derbyshire, United Kingdom (2025)

Had a lovely experience yesterday! Very family friendly (we had a pram, and they put out a baby change for us). The service was very good. The little finishing touches of bringing cutlery on a plate and sauce on a little side plate, too, made it a more pleasant experience. Food is an amazing value for money! Also full for the entirety of our time there, which I feel speaks volumes!

My mum, dad and myself had been here on a previous trip to Ashbourne, but only had a cappuccino with the time getting on, and we found it to be a lovely place. So this time, on a solo trip, I decided to stop by for breakfast, which came with two sausages, bacon, baked beans, mushroom, a tomato, black pudding, hash browns, fried bread and white or brown toast. Thankfully, it wasn't too crowded inside and I was able to choose a table at the bottom, nearest the counter, as these are great for solo customers or a party of two. Had a look through the menu, and chose the regular breakfast with granary toast and a cappuccino for the drink. Super cosy place with awesome chairs and tables (going for the marbled look, complimenting the black and white chairs very well!) It was clean and I noticed, by the side, there was a glass jar of dog treats and some blankets, so I think well-behaved dogs are allowed. The lady who served me, as well as the other ladies, were super pleasant and very friendly. Food came out and was presented nicely on the plate, everything hot and cooked to perfection! The fried egg was fabulous and runny, the sausages well-seasoned (proper ones too, not like some you get elsewhere). The hash browns were nice and crispy, not soggy at all! Very filling and certainly set me up for the day. I think the breakfast and cappuccino came to about £16 altogether, which I don't think is bad at all, considering everything was fresh. Would have no hesitation coming back in the future, and would HIGHLY recommend! Many thanks to the staff at Café Impromptu!

Great place to visit, under new ownership! Food was excellent, well priced, and the staff were very friendly and helpful. 😋👍 #Restaurant #Food #Travel #Hospitality

This charming little cafe in Ashbourne is a real gem. We stopped by for breakfast and were pleasantly surprised by both the quality and value. We ordered the Full English breakfast, which was generous and satisfying. It included two tasty sausages, a perfectly cooked fried egg, crispy bacon, baked beans, mushrooms, tomato, toast, and even a slice of fried bread — all for just £12.75. Considering the portion size and the variety on the plate, it’s excellent value for money. To drink we had a vanilla latte and a refreshing orange juice, both reasonably priced and a great complement to the meal. We left feeling comfortably full — exactly what you want from a good breakfast! The cafe itself is cosy and welcoming, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in and enjoy your time. There’s also an outdoor seating area upstairs which is a lovely touch if you’re visiting on a sunny day. Overall, it’s a great spot for a casual bite and a warm drink. We’ll definitely be returning the next time we’re in Ashbourne.

Absolutely lovely little cafe - great food and drink choices, including gluten free. The food was delicious and the service was excellent. The friendliness of the staff gave the cafe a really nice atmosphere, we will definitely be visiting again and would highly recommend 😀

Wanted to try this lovely cafe we had heard about. Lived up to great expectations, great coffee, lovely atmosphere, we didn't eat ,but the food looked very tasty. Ben, Elliot and Maya give us great service. Thankyou

Lovely place to go for tea and cake. All their tea is loose leaf and the Peak District breakfast tea was really nice. Very friendly staff and really good Bakewell tart.

Lovely place to have a spot of tea/coffee and a scone. The Scones were delicious and are hand made by the owners mum. Very light and fluffy. Coffee and tea both very good. Also, on a Sunday they are open later then most that shut around 4pm, which is why we luckily found this one. Staff lovely and friendly, very recommended!

Exactly what you would expect for a place that sets itself up as "coffee experts". First, I had an amazing coffee there. Then, supremely knowledgeable advice where they really listened to my preferences and had good suggestions. Then a discussion of tools and techniques, where they clearly understand the ups and downs of how each technique can affect flavour. Finally, a superior product - just ground some of their Guatamalan Huehuetenango beans, medium roast, and to say that the output beats "high street coffee" is an understatement (using upside/down aeropress, with a bloom phase, and double paper filters). Absolutely lovely place and I cannot recommend it enough.

It’s my second time going here and I’m really impressed. The coffee to go tastes MILES better than you’d get at Costa/Starbucks. The staff are lovely. Previously I queried how to use a moka pot and was given a full intro for it by the lady serving me (she was so patient!) and today’s employee was also very friendly. I’m enjoying the fresh coffee grounds at home too, and just really looking forward to trying more blends!

So this review is for my recent mail order of coffee beans - Celestial and Tiger Stripes blend. I have ordered ground in the past but we’ve now moved to grinding our own beans. Tried both these now and they are absolutely lovely. The tiger stripes in particular is gorgeous! They put commercial supermarket blends to shame and it’s a much better experience than a high st chain. The delivery was swift as well. Thank you.

Lovely coffee house - we watched the coffee beans roasting while waiting for our lattes and bacon rolls. Lots of coffee varieties on offer, together with cakes, rolls, bubble tea etc. Brilliant 👍🏻

Cute cafe serving good food and, according to my daughter, the best vanilla milkshake ever.

We travelled to the Peak District today to climb Mam Tor at sunrise and visited Rose Cottage following the descent. We called prior to our arrival to check dogs were allowed - not being from the area. We were given a warm welcome and staff were super attentive and friendly! Breakfast was 10/10! Would highly recommend to tourists! Have attached photos although we are fussy eaters so had several items removed from our dishes (of which the team were also very accommodating of).

Cute little cafe in Castleton. I had the Avocado mash on muffin which was delicious. Also had a good strong cup of flat white to go with it. Service was quick, waiters were very friendly. Food was decently priced.

Warm and welcoming. My coffee was delicious. Cosy atmosphere by the fire with some choice of games that my youngest really enjoyed. Just what we needed after a long journey in the car.

A great find....... A small cafe with very idyllic views across the valley. The food is great, the service is friendly and the prices are fair. I would recommend this to anyone in the area who likes a spot of brunch or an early lunch. I believe they also do bistro nights which I can imagine are great.

What a fabulous find, came across this place while out walking and loved it. Friendly welcome, beautiful seating inside and out and wonderful cakes. A much wider menu than just cakes, but it was always cake for us.

I booked an afternoon tea for today as a late Christmas present for my mum and sister (we wanted to wait until the weather was warmer). I have to say it was amazing, my sister is a picky eater but they accommodated that and made sure everything perfect for us all. The staff are so welcoming and friendly and the owners are always very lovely 🥰. I would highly recommend, we will definitely be going back! It’s an easy 5 star ⭐ rating from us!

What a gem of a place. The outside seating is first class and the views are stunning. It's so peaceful. A place to unwind and rest and drink and eat good quality food. The staff are extremely pleasant and helpful and nothing is too much trouble. They cater for every palette - a coffee served with cake through to jacket potatoes, Panini and meat pies. Dogs are welcome which is so good. I popped into the farm shop expecting it to be like Diddly Squat but I was a bit disappointed. There was no meat counter and not many pies either. There was a small selection of cheese and cakes with greeting cards and cute socks and numerous jars of preserves and pickles. I can't wait until my next visit - it's definitely my new go to place. Well done to the owners and excellent staff

Lovely setting and well maintained in the inside. Food and coffee are amazing. One point to consider; the sign about your card-charges. Take it down, these charges are a tax deduction against your income, plus all your bank charges. Maybe you should get rid of card payments all together if it’s causing an issue. At the end of the day, it’s the cost of doing business and these charges are already worked into your costs.

Stopped here for a takeaway coffee to enjoy in the park. It was piping hot, reasonably priced and the service was friendly. The cakes were very tempting but unfortunately I didn't indulge this time so can't vouch for their taste and quality. Worth a stop if you want something whilst in Matlock. Savoury items were also available.

Enjoyed a delicious latte on the porch area in a peaceful park with local people going about their day, taking in the sites. I didn't have food but the cakes looked amazing! Friendly staff plenty of food options.

Had tea and cake here recently. As usual, the service was friendly, and the food and drink were excellent. I have visited many times and would highly recommend it. Called in again in August and had this lovely coffee and pecan cake. Added some Valentine cake photos for February 2024. 13th October 2024 had tea and apple pie delicious! November 2024 and the café is decorated for Christmas, seasonal cakes await, and 'spicy parsnip soup'. The staff are as friendly as ever, a warm atmosphere awaits....

Great food and lovely atmosphere. Shakshuka and pancakes were filling and tasty. Fab coffee and we are coming back for margaritas later 😜. You should come here. It is fabulous. Luke looked after us very well 👍🏻

Lovely cafe, visited whilst in the area for my Hen party. Had booked a table for 6, order at the counter and food and drinks came very quickly. Recommend the mango and passion fruit pancakes. Food presented very well and I think the prices are fair.

Exceptional experience. This was our first ever visit with our 4 legged friend and the welcome could not have been any more warmer. The servers were chatty, polite and ready to explain anything and everything about their menu. I had my first taste of a rice crispie chicken burger and all I can say is wow! You must try to appreciate it. Hot chocolate and coffee we would go as far the say the BEST in Derbyshire. We can’t wait to return.

Really nice breakfast spot with a great selection on the menu. The decor and ambiance is also really nice and works perfectly. The dishes are nicely presented and the drinks and coffee options are also good. I had the eggs benedict but would have preferred the eggs to be slightly more cooked as the whites were a little runny but still edible (poached eggs aren't the easiest) and I think a tad more bacon too as it was quite slim. Others in my group had a full English and the bacon and chicken pancakes which they enjoyed. We also tried the special brew of coffees which was a nice experience. Overall really good place and would consider revisiting if in the area.

Came across this cafe next to padley gorge, don't let looks deceive , First class location food is to die for, I had the stew, crazy portions first class food and portion a chips,enough to feed 4, certainly going back, highly

Great breakfasts, a cosy fire, and with a friendly atmosphere. Pay cash and fill up on tasty treats! Plenty to take away too, including the largest sausage rolls you've ever seen!

Good quality non fussy food at very reasonable prices, in a beautiful location. Outdoor and indoor seating. Parking (third party) next door for £2

One of our favourite venues for a pre hike meal. One again fantastic value, good choice of hearty food to stock up on the calories ready for your challenging walk. Highly recommended and will be returning again when in the Peaks.

Lovely garden at the back. Toilets (clean) outside are down some steps. Accessible path to garden. Friendly staff. Lovely cheese scones - ask for them to be warmed. Dog friendly. UPDATE: probably the best halloumi & falafel baguette in the area!

Had a fantastic experience at The Family Tree! The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a lovely countryside charm. The food was delicious, well-prepared, and generously portioned. The staff were friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome from start to finish. Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee, a meal, or just a relaxing time, this place is definitely worth a visit. Highly recommended!

A well proportioned cafe plenty of outside dining space and good parking. Offers a wide range of tasty looking breakfasts with vegetarian options. The first time I have been offered a raspberry jam croissant, but it was quite nice. I would imagine this place is very busy during tourist season. Prices seem reasonable for the quality offered. Staff are .pleasant

I'm so happy that the Old Smithy has reopened! It used to be a favourite stop on our walks, and we missed it so much. We worried if the new owners would maintain the charm and atmosphere, but we were not disappointed. The menu is basic, but the portions are generous, and the food is really fresh and tasty. The staff are superb!!!! Very friendly, yet polite and respectful. The service was prompt and efficient. Cannot wait to go back. I sincerely hope that the business will thrive and wish the new owners all the best of luck.

I’ve visited The Old Smithy many times! I've been for breakfast, brunch, and lunch and it never disappoints. The food is consistently top-notch, and their signature Smithy blend coffee is hands down the best I’ve ever had. The staff are always warm, welcoming, and greet you with genuine smiles. Well Done to the team at The Old Smithy

Very quick review... If you go to any cafe around Chesterfield this is absolutely a must not miss. The food is really beyond even my expectations and the coleslaw ♥️♥️♥️. For an old jaded restaurant critic this was just wonderful. Really. So, check out the Old Smithy, it's utterly exquisite on all fronts (decor, food, and service). My highest award: FIVE NOMS 🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂

A definite must not miss cafe if you are visiting nearby Chatsworth. Delicious food & cakes in a lovely setting with attentive & friendly staff.