The local woods of Norbury Park just outside Bookham, Surrey, are filled with unexpected surprises. From spotting deer running through the bushes or seeing a beautiful sunrise between the treetops, undoubtedly the best thing about the park is Wild…! About Coffee. 

 

Situated outside an old saw mill, nestled between the trees, is a haven for dogwalkers and hikers alike, available throughout the best part of the day, from Thursday to Sunday. We came to this spot on a Sunday morning and the hustle and bustle was unexpected but welcome in equal measure. Most surprising was our location, in the middle of the woods, set in the most tranquil scene. This ‘café’ among the trees includes a firepit, great coffee (and other hot drinks) all served from a mobile coffee stand along with some lovely snacks for the walk.

 

But maybe the highlight for me were the owners, Phil and his partner Pam.

 

Phil’s wit is very apparent and his infectious laugh rings out every time I speak to him. This time though I got to ask him some questions.

 

Phil and Pam have been in Norbury Park for two years, and before that they spent four years in Whitmoor common, Guildford. 

 

Before Phil turned his hand to being a barista in the woods, he worked in theatre, first as a technician and then a producer. His theatre background is very clear in his character and his infectious personality is one of the main reasons why this business is such a hit.

 

Finally, I asked Phil and Pam what made him come to the woods. “It's all about us being in nature,” he told me. “But more than that it's about other people coming out into nature too.” For me this really proves how special Wild…! About Coffee is, and how many people are positively impacted by it.

 

If you are looking for a great coffee, a break from your walk through the woods or just a chat with some lovely people, this is definitely the spot I would recommend.