Penelope’s

21 Stour St, Manningtree CO11 1DH, United Kingdom
+44 1206 970654
$$$ Cafe
(28 Reviews)
Price Range £10–20

Nestled in the charming town of Manningtree, Penelope's Cafe is a must-visit for anyone craving a delightful culinary experience. Located at 21 Stour St, Manningtree CO11 1DH, this delightful cafe offers a cozy retreat with a heartwarming ambiance that welcomes guests from the moment they step inside.

What sets Penelope's apart is its dedication to homemade goodness. Guests rave about the attention to detail, from the delicious warm cheese scones served with generous butter and chutney to the exceedingly light fruit scones paired with jam and clotted cream. Penelope herself is known for her remarkable baking, which shines brightest during their popular afternoon tea experience, a charming affair featuring an array of delectable sandwiches, pastries, and cakes that are not only tasty but artfully presented.

One delighted patron, Francesca Comer, shared her experience of a lovely afternoon tea at Penelope's, emphasizing the generous selection of sandwiches and cakes that elevated her visit into a memorable occasion. The ambiance was equally praised for being inviting and calm, perfect for a relaxed dining experience.

For lunch options, the cafe features delightful dishes such as the mouth-watering smashed avocado with perfectly poached eggs on fresh local bread, as noted by Flic Wright.

With its meticulous attention to flavor and presentation, Penelope’s Cafe is quickly becoming a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Not only does it boast a friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff, including Penelope and her partner Jamie, but it also serves as a fantastic gathering spot for friends and families. Patrons have described it as a cozy hidden gem—an oasis for those seeking comfort food made with love.

“We had the most amazing afternoon tea,” wrote Rachael Moss. If you haven’t been yet, I would encourage you to frequent this lovely addition to our little town.” With reviews filled with enthusiasm, it's clear that Penelope’s Cafe provides not just food, but a lovely experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Whether you're stopping by for a rich cup of coffee or indulging in a slice of their famous chocolate brownie topped with strawberries and cream, every visit to Penelope’s is sure to be a sweet delight. Phone: +44 1206 970654. Be sure to stop in for a bite at this lovely cafe that has been embraced by the local community.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Payments
Cash only
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Pets
Dogs allowed
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

09:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Tuesday

09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Wednesday

09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Thursday

09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Friday

09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday

08:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

28 Reviews
Francesca Comer

05 Oct 2025

We had a lovely afternoon tea at Penelope's cafe. A generous selection of sandwiches, sausage roll and cakes. All very tasty and beautifully presented. Lovely atmosphere and wonderful friendly service. Many thanks

Flic Wright

16 Sep 2025

Delicious food and drinks at Penelope’s. Very friendly and welcoming staff, including Penelope herself! I had smashed avocado with poached eggs, perfectly cooked runny eggs and very fresh, local bread! Will definitely be visiting again!

Pam S (EWIC)

12 Sep 2025

Wonderful, cozy cafe tucked away on Stour St. Fresh tasty sandwich rolls, friendly staff, reasonably priced. A hidden gem in Manningtree.

Jane Arthurs

31 Aug 2025

Had a lovely lunch Penelope’s cafe Delicious warm cheese scones with lashings of butter and chutney. Followed by a slice of yummy Blackberry and Cherry sponge cake Laurie had a bowl of scone pudding with enough custard to swim in. I would definitely recommend Penelope’s as a go to for breakfast lunch and Afternoon Tea x

Sandra Orford

20 Aug 2025

We stopped here for a light lunch.The staff were very welcoming and helpful- personally I think this is very important! I had fruit scone with jam and clotted cream- scone was very light and served warm.My husband had carrot and ginger soup which was delicious- served with warm sourdough bread. Will definitely go again if we're in the area

Rachael Moss

20 Jul 2025

I would like to do a shout out for Penelope’s cafe ! We had the most amazing afternoon tea today for my sister’s belated birthday. I would highly recommend; the food was all delicious and all baked by Penelope herself. If you haven’t been yet then I would encourage you to frequent this lovely addition to our little town

Jack Wright

21 Jun 2025

Lovely new cafe in Manningtree, run by Penelope and Jamie. Very welcoming couple. Excellent sausage and egg bap, with great coffee! A good selection of homemade cake, flapjack and scones. Looking forward to returning to try the dish of month- sausage plait!!

Elizabeth Norton

12 Jun 2025

Lovely café. Good, strong hot coffee and the most delicious chocolate brownie with strawberries and cream. The cafe was lovely and clean, with a calm atmosphere. Penelope was a good host, and obviously takes great pride in her cafe. Would definitely recommend and I look forward to my next visit.

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