There's something undeniably enchanting about stepping into a bakery, where the air is rich with the scent of freshly baked bread, the counters gleam with an array of golden pastries, and every bite promises a story of tradition and craft.
Devon, with its picturesque landscapes and quaint towns, is also home to some of the finest bakeries in the UK. Whether you're a local or just visiting, indulging in the delectable offerings from these top bakeries is a must.
Here are ten recommended bakeries, each offering their own unique and mouth-watering baked goods:
Jacka Bakery, Plymouth: This absolute gem, located in the Barbican area of the city is the oldest bakery in the UK and has a rich history, dating back to the 1600’s. The family-run business offers something for everyone from mouth-watering sourdough, to delicious pastries – it’s a must-visit.
The Appledore Bakery, Bideford: The Appledore Bakery, located at 13 Allhalland Street in Bideford, embodies the charm and warmth of a quintessential community bakery. Known for its vintage vibe and a menu centered around bread, the bakery delights its customers with offerings like doorstep toast, pizza bagels, and particularly the 'boulder cakes' — their take on the traditional Rock Cakes. This bakery not only serves delicious baked goods but also plays a significant role in the community, offering a 'hanging loaf' option where customers can contribute towards providing bread for those in need.
Big Bakes Bakery, Torquay: Big Bakes Bakery in is a delightful bakery that captures the spirit of modern baking with a personal touch. Founded by Charlie and Ryan, a Devon couple with a passion for travel and baking, their bakery offers an array of handmade cakes, brownies, biscuits, and other bakes. Drawing inspiration from their global adventures, they infuse their creations with unique flavours and styles. Customers can enjoy a taste of Big Bakes Bakery's latest offerings by visiting their shop in Torquay or ordering online, where they offer postal treat boxes for those craving their delicious treats from afar.
The Exploding Bakery, Exeter: Located near Exeter Central station, The Exploding Bakery in Exeter is a testament to contemporary baking fused with a commitment to the environment. Known for its inventive range of cakes, brownies, and traybakes, this bakery stands out with its ethos of using better ingredients for a better planet. They emphasize no plastic, no palm oil, and no nasties in their baking process. Moreover, they are members of 1% for the Planet and partner with One Tree Planted, ensuring that every purchase contributes to planting a tree. Their unique approach extends to their service as well, offering a cake gifting service with options for letterbox-friendly brownies and a variety of cakes for different occasions, all available for next day delivery.
Briar Bakery, Ashburton: Briar Bakery in Ashburton is a quaint and charming bakery that has recently transitioned from the well-loved local baker Ella, who served the community for 13 years. The new team at Briar Bakery, continuing the legacy, has been trained by Ella and her team, ensuring the same level of quality and love in their baked goods. Located at 9 West Street in Ashburton, they are open from Wednesday to Saturday, welcoming both regulars and newcomers to enjoy their delightful range of baked treats. This bakery, steeped in local tradition yet infused with fresh enthusiasm from its new bakers, is a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy classic bakery fare in a warm, community-focused setting.
Ryder’s Bakery, Dawlish: Ryder's Bakery in Dawlish, a family-run bakery for over 50 years, epitomises the passion and dedication characteristic of traditional baking. They take pride in their early morning baking routines, offering a delightful range of freshly baked breads, cakes, savouries, and more. Their presence in Dawlish is marked by two key locations: the Dawlish Warren Cafe and the bakery on The Strand. At these spots, customers can enjoy a full range of baked goods, from sourdough loaves to savoury scones and sweet traybakes. They also emphasise the local production of their products, with most items baked and cooked in their bakery 10 miles up the valley, marked with the Ryder’s Own label.
Brown’s Kitchen Bakery, Sidmouth: Brown's Kitchen Bakery welcomes visitors with a heart-warming array of homemade cakes, bakes, and celebration treats that embody the essence of traditional British baking with a contemporary twist. Nestled in the heart of Sidmouth, this bakery is a family-run gem where passion and creativity meet in every batch. From classic Victoria sponges to inventive new flavours, each creation is crafted with care and a deep respect for quality ingredients.
Common Loaf Bakery, Dunkeswell: Common Loaf Bakery is a unique establishment known for its commitment to organic and wholesome baking. As a bakery deeply rooted in the principles of sustainability and community, it focuses on producing a range of organic breads and pastries that are not only delicious but also environmentally conscious. With an emphasis on traditional baking techniques and high-quality, natural ingredients, Common Loaf Bakery stands out as a shining example of authentic, artisanal baking in Devon. You can also visit their café, The Yellow Deli, in Honiton.
Beachwood Bakery, Chagford: Beachwood Bakery, established in 2020, is a haven for those who appreciate artisanal baking and organic ingredients. Hailed as "one of the world's 50 greatest food stores" by the Financial Times in 2021, this friendly neighbourhood bakery offers a delightful selection of handcrafted breads, pastries, and ice creams. Using the finest organic, local, and seasonal ingredients, they specialise in everything from their popular Village Sourdough to innovative cakes and treats. Their commitment to making everything from scratch with seasonal ingredients shines through in their menu.
The Bakehouse, Salcombe: The Bakehouse, situated in the picturesque coastal town of Salcombe, is a delightful destination for anyone seeking traditional baked goods with a modern touch. Renowned for its wide array of freshly baked bread, delicious pastries, and sweet treats, The Bakehouse offers both locals and visitors a taste of Devon's rich baking heritage. Their dedication to quality is evident in every bite, whether it's their artisanal sourdough bread or their decadent cakes.
So, whether you're savouring the innovative treats of Beachwood Bakery in Chagford or enjoying the homey warmth of Brown's Kitchen Bakery in Sidmouth, you're experiencing the essence of Devon — a county that blends the artistry of baking with the warmth of community. So, come and explore these hidden gems. Indulge in the sweetness, share in the laughter, and make memories in Devon, where every bakery is a doorway to delight, and every bite tells a story of passion and tradition.
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