Today, I found myself at Trail Café, the latest venture from Jessica Braithwaite, and it’s safe to say—I was completely drawn in. It’s not just a café; it’s a beautifully considered space that ties itself to the landscape, the movement, the rhythm of the local area. As the name suggests, it’s built around the idea of trails—whether you’re walking, cycling, or just taking a moment to pause, you can grab a coffee or fill a flask and let the journey unfold.

Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the thought woven into every detail—the colour palette, the textures, the way the space holds you. There’s seating both inside and out, each setting offering a different kind of experience. Inside, something unexpected happened. I sat down, coffee in hand, and before I knew it, I was deep in conversation with an artist and a filmmaker. Three strangers, yet somehow, we were all connected—drawn together by a shared love for design, creativity, and the experience of being present in a space that invites conversation.

This is what good design does. It doesn’t just exist; it activates. It shapes interactions, it sparks moments. And that’s exactly what Trail Café does so well—it’s not just a place to grab a coffee, it’s a space to be part of something, to feel part of something.

I won’t say too much more just yet, because I’ll be interviewing Jess soon to dive deeper into her vision, but for now, here’s a little snapshot—some photos, a link to explore: www.trailcafe.co.uk.

There’s talk of an official launch coming soon, but if you’re in Leigh-on-Sea, it’s open Wednesday to Sunday, 8 AM – 3 PM. Whether you’re setting off on a trail or just looking for a moment of stillness, this is a place worth experiencing.