As a self-confessed bakery addict, I have made it my mission to visit every bakery that receives accolades or awards. The UK's food scene often faces unfair criticism, but the culinary innovation from chefs, brands, and small businesses is truly remarkable. My passion for baking and bakery visits has led me to compile a list of must-visit venues in London that live up to their hype.
Why These Bakeries Stand Out
While social media can sometimes create excessive excitement around trendy spots, the bakeries on this list have earned their recognition through genuine skill and creativity. As an enthusiast with considerable knowledge, I believe these venues offer exceptional experiences that go beyond fleeting trends. Before diving into the top picks, it's worth mentioning a few honorable mentions that have left a mark, such as Morny Bakehouse, which sadly closed in 2023 but was known for its "Patisserie Positivity." Other favorites include Aries Bakehouse in Brixton, Toad Bakery in Camberwell, and Panadera in Marylebone and Soho. However, the following five bakeries are absolute must-visits for anyone in London.
Chatsworth Bakehouse, Crystal Palace
I will never stop raving about Chatsworth Bakehouse. If I had to choose one bakery to visit for the rest of my days, this would be it without hesitation. Founded as a lockdown venture by couple Sian Evans and Tom Mathews, it started by delivering fresh sourdough and focaccia to locals before opening its iconic red-fronted shop on Anerley Road in 2021. Year after year, they continue to attract visitors from across the capital with their seasonal offerings, including cereal treat biscuits, decadent pastries, and sandwiches worthy of royalty.
Their focaccia is expertly crafted, and during the week, the bakery opens for sandwich collections that are released like Ticketmaster drops. But the real star is the pizza. Every Saturday at 1pm, hour-long queues form for a slice of their celebrated pies, with rotating flavors and toppings. I have queued for nearly two hours and would do it again happily. Chatsworth's journey, team, and vision make it a standout destination.
Milk Run, Balham/Tooting Bec
As the younger sibling to a renowned Aussie brunch spot, Milk Run has been creating buzz since its launch in July 2024. Located in south-west London, a mecca for bakeries and coffee shops, it brings a Bondi atmosphere to the city with exceptional pastries and inventive flavor pairings. The bakery is also brilliant at coffee, and every weekend sees queues stretching outside as customers eagerly collect pastries and coffee to start their day.
The kitchen is fully visible, showcasing racks of meticulously crafted pastries, fresh bread, deli essentials, and merchandise. The pastries steal the limelight, with half the counter dedicated to regular favorites and the other half to rotating treats that sell out rapidly. A must-try is the Coffee and Pecan Pain au Chocolat, which elevates the classic with rich chocolate and a burst of sweetness. Enjoy it with a chilled iced coffee on a sunny weekend for a delightful experience.
August, Clapham
Recently named one of the UK's top artisan bakeries by British Baker, August Bakery on Battersea Rise in Clapham has earned its stripes, claiming the top spot in the expert's Baker's Dozen list. Run by husband-and-wife team Harry Robins and Florrie Beard, August opened just over a year ago and offers every type of pastry and bun, whether sweet or savoury.
The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring there is always something fresh to sample, complemented by a classic oat flat white. While I haven't tried everything on the menu, I never pass up their cinnamon buns, which are so immaculately crafted that it feels almost impolite to tuck in. But trust me, you won't regret indulging in these delicious treats.
Tarn, Highgate
Visiting Tarn required a monumental effort, not only due to its location on the other side of the city but also because of the enormous, steep hill you must ascend to reach the bakery. It felt like a Duke of Edinburgh hike, but the reward was worth it. The bakery itself is unpretentious, offering a tranquil spot for a brief respite and people-watching.
Tarn occasionally hosts pizza nights, and if I lived nearer, I would definitely pop in for a slice. All offerings are inspired by seasonal produce, ensuring you'll never eat the same thing twice. If you spot it on the menu, do yourself a favor and grab one of Tarn's chocolate and espresso buns. These mini babka-like buns are fluffy and simply scrumptious.
Maya's Bakehouse, Tulse Hill
Tulse Hill, slightly more subdued than neighboring Brixton, is home to an absolute gem of a bakery. Maya's Bakehouse began during the pandemic with owner Maya baking from a micro-bakery in her home. Thanks to strong local support and waiting lists for her products through weekly drops via Delli, she successfully opened her own shop in 2023.
Offering a range of seasonal bakes and creative flavor pairings, Maya's is an essential destination in South London. They regularly rotate the fillings in their savoury brioche buns, featuring options such as pulled pork with sharp pickled jalapeños, pumpkin and lamb shoulder, and cheesy leeks with béchamel sauce and crispy kale. These usually sell out quickly, so make sure to grab one early. A bun from Maya's is an essential treat for any bakery enthusiast.
