5 London bakeries named as some of the UK’s by The Times

This should come as no surprise, but London has some of the best bakeries in the UK.

In fact, The Times’ list of the top 49 bakeries to visit in the UK, which has been compiled by bakers and chefs local to the specific regions, includes five of the capital’s finest.

These are the London bakeries which made the best of list.

e5 Bakehouse, Hackney

Coming in at number 27, e5 Bakehouse has its flagship location in Hackney, with a second site in Poplar which is staffed with people who have come through the bakery’s refugee training programme. Go to either bakery for delicious pastries, wholesome light lunches, fresh coffee and hearty breakfasts.

The organic bakery gets much of its grains and produce from its 70 acre farm in Suffolk, and regularly holds bready workshops for those wanting to finesse their pastry, sourdough and pizza base making skills.

Address: Arch 395, Mentmore Terrace, Hackney E8 3PH

Website: e5bakehouse.com

Pophams, Islington and London Fields

Next on the list at number 28, artisanal bakery Pophams is a purveyor of fine, flaky pastries and hearty loaves. It also makes an addictive marmite and leek scroll. Both locations serve light breakfast and lunch options too.

The London Fields location also has a short menu of freshly made pasta, which is available to dine in from Wednesday to Sunday from 6pm. There’s a third site in Victoria Park Village too.

Address: 19 Prebend Street, Islington N1 8PF; 197 Richmond Road, London Fields E8 3NJ

Website: pophamsbakery.com

Arôme Bakery, Covent Garden

At number 29, this West End bakery specialises in traditional French patisserie – croissants, pain au chocolat, and the bakery’s signature honey butter toast. There are also modern creations as well, such as the miso bacon escargot and gula melaka coconut twist among the tarts, Danishes, bread and Viennoiseries on offer. Look out for lunch toasties with fillings such as the classic croque monsieur, and three cheeses.

The bakery also brews Allpress coffee, which goes well with savoury and sweet crusty delights, whether you’re eating in or taking out.

Address: 27 Duke Street, Covent Garden W1U 1LE; 9 Mercer Street
The Yards, Covent Garden WC2H 9QJ

Website: aromebakery.co.uk

Happy Sky Bakery, Shepherd’s Bush

The 30th bakery on the list is west London’s Japanese artisanal bakery, Happy Sky Bakery.  In the kawaii cute shopfront, you’ll find sweet and savoury treats, many of which are almost too good looking to eat.

There’s a selection of Japanese sandos to try, as well as things like Tokyo milk loaf, teriyaki chicken buns and yuzu custard tarts. Look out for Japanese riffs on French classics, such as the mocchin adzuki all butter croissant and the mochi matcha custard cream.

Address: 94 Askew Road, Shepard’s Bush W12 9BL

Website: happyskylondon.com

The Little Bread Pedlar, various locations around London

With shopfronts in Waterloo, Bermondsey, Pimlico, Canopy Market, King’s Cross, Primrose Hill, Regent’s Park and stockists throughout London, you’re never that far away from the 31st bakery on The Times’ list.  

Head to your closest location for single portion quiches and pies, freshly made sandwiches, and of course crusty loaves and buttery patisserie.

Website: lbpedlar.com