A new coffee shop has been opened in Ottery St Mary by a man who wanted to create ‘his perfect café to spend time in’.

Aaron Burnham was inspired to set up The Lodge after visiting a friend’s café in London.

He wanted to create his own venue with a similar vibe, and has put a lot of thought into it. He acquired the building in November and opened for business on Saturday, April 6.

Aaron said, a former barber, said: “I’ve been to a lot of chain coffee shops that are very corporate and too modern, if you get what I mean. I made a real effort to make this place feel homely, rustic and inviting. I’ve really leant into the rustic style aesthetic; we’ve got a lovely chesterfield sofa, the menu board and main desk is hand-made and I'm looking at getting more tables built by The Men's Shed.

“Dogs are welcome in here - I’m a big dog lover myself - and I really do make an effort to talk to and get to know everyone who comes in, if it’s not too busy.”

As well as serving coffee and tea, The Lodge offers pizzas and bagels that are freshly made in front of customers.

Aaron said: “I’ve worked with as many small local businesses as I can when it comes to my coffee and foods, even my main food supplier is a small company owned by a friend of mine.” 

The Lodge can be found in Brook Street next to Lovells garage.