The Shed Cafe

Broomfield Road, Elmstead Market, Elmstead, Colchester CO7 7FD, United Kingdom
+44 7803 208735
$$$ Cafe
(163 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

The Shed Cafe offers a straightforward, no-frills spot for a solid breakfast or light bite along Broomfield Road in Elmstead Market. Nestled within the Lanswoodpark Business Centre, it primarily attracts locals and workers from the nearby area who want a freshly cooked meal without fuss. The menu focuses on hearty British staples like a Full English Breakfast alongside simple sweets such as sponge cake and fresh fruit.

Inside, the cafe is compact with limited seating, creating a bustling and lively atmosphere during peak morning hours. The space can feel a bit cramped and noisy, especially since the kitchen is open and close to the dining area, but it contributes to a casual and welcoming vibe. Local visitors often appreciate the friendly staff who balance efficiency with warmth, making it a dependable stop for breakfast or a laid-back lunch.

Parking directly outside is scarce, though a larger visitor parking area is available a short walk away, which helps when the cafe hits its busy spells. The setup encourages quick, informal visits rather than lingering over coffee for long stretches. Condiments and cutlery are self-service and arranged along one wall, supporting the cafe’s no-nonsense approach.

This spot suits early risers and those looking to fuel up before heading to work or tackling errands nearby. It’s a practical choice for anyone wanting a traditional British breakfast or light snack in a place where the food is freshly made to order, prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is straightforward and familiar rather than polished or trendy.

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
What they serve
Coffee
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Best for
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Tuesday

7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Wednesday

7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Thursday

7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Friday

7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Saturday

8:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

163 Reviews
Wonga

19 Dec 2025

Great tasting breakfast. Freshly cooked to order and friendly staffs. Possibly one of the best breakfast in the Tendring, Colchester area. The Shed Cafe is actually located in Lanswoodpark Business Centre.

Andy Hearn

06 Dec 2025

Enjoy a Great British Breakfast here with plenty of lighter alternatives available. Popular local eatery run by friendly folk.

Paula Broadley

05 Dec 2025

Great little cafe, food good and reasonable priced. Parking available. Lovely staff

Peter Tanner

04 Dec 2025

Good hot food. Friendly welcome. Reasonable prices.

Quy Anderson

27 Nov 2025

This place is really popular. You’d think it wouldn’t be very busy but you’d be wrong. There’s limited seating inside and out. Even less parking spots directly outside. There’s a larger visitor parking area a short walk away. It can get very noisy as it’s a small space and the kitchen isn’t in its own enclosed area. All condiments, sugar and cutlery are centrally located by the wall so you have to get it yourself - I didn’t mind this. You order and pay at the till. They’ll bring your order to you. The mushrooms in the breakfast was cooked really well. Staff are friendly and welcoming. The only thing I’d say it’s probably not the best place if you’ve got a headache/hangover as it’s noisy when busy.

Jeff Kemp

24 Nov 2025

Great food and staff, when it's treat time that's where we go. Would recommend to everyone unless on a diet .

Kim Spencer

13 Oct 2025

Wonderful late breakfast with a friend. Large portions, delicious food and fantastic service

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