Queen's Wood Cafe - London

Maria F.

Finally made it to Queens Wood Café after social media hype foiled my plans two years ago! It was the perfect time, still a small queue (just until the stairs), but nothing too crazy.

The café itself is cozy, dog-friendly, and nestled in the woods, which adds to its charm. The staff were fine, nothing exceptional. The toasties looked great and seemed to be a hit, though I only tried the hot chocolate, which was ok-ish… Would have preferred the marshmallows on top of the cream rather than buried underneath (by the time you sit down, they’re already melted!). We’ve also tried their pastries, and they’re average.

But what truly makes this place special is the setting. Wrapped in a blanket, with the sun shining and the sound of the woods around me, it was the perfect spot to unwind, think, or even read. If you go for the atmosphere over the food, you won’t be disappointed!

Simona F.

Lovely concept and a truly spectacular location. The only downside is that the peaceful atmosphere is occasionally interrupted by traffic noise, as it’s close to the road.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to try the full menu because the kitchen was closed due to understaffing. I did have the polenta cake, which was good, but the matcha latte was disappointing — the powder wasn’t properly mixed, and they only had sweetened milk available. The staff didn’t seem to understand that I was asking for unsweetened milk.

Perhaps because of the staff shortage, the outdoor garden was full of dirty dishes, glasses, and leftover food on almost every table. I even had to clean my own table before sitting down. It would definitely help to have a dedicated area where customers can place used trays and dishes while waiting for staff to collect them. Speaking of trays — I wasn’t even given one, which made things tricky when trying to get through the garden gate (thanks to a kind girl who helped me open it).

I rarely leave negative reviews, but unfortunately, this isn’t a place I would return to. Hopefully, with better organization and more staff, the experience could improve, because the setting really does deserve it.

jeff B.

Located a mere 30 meters - in plain sight - from the main entrance to the Wood, this is hardly a “hidden gem”, embedded deep in the imagined fabulist folkloric.
The former derelict Wood keepers Lodge and café( circa1898) resurrected in 1998 preserving its quirky architectural character while adding a small playground and herb garden.
Charming setting, inviting, cosy and enveloping.
Typical café fare with the expected tickle of cakes, pastries, toasties, salads, lite-bites, a tease of vegan options and Kombucha !
Notwithstanding the useful herb garden and offbeat appeal, there’s no obvious capitulation to artisanal tomfoolery evident here
Liquor license with the staff industry efficient and competent.
Evocative: hard to resist the nonchalant stagecrafting.
Recommended.

Hiruni G.

A cozy hidden gem! The journey through the woods is beautiful—especially in spring or autumn. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with supplies for drawing and games, making it a perfect place to relax. We tried the banana cake, tuna mayo sandwich with salad, hot chocolate, and mocha. The sandwich was delicious, portions were good, and the drinks were great too. Prices were reasonable. A true blessing to the soul—will definitely be back!

Mingxiao K.

The environment is absolutely perfect — a cozy café nestled in the forest, incredibly comfortable and peaceful. However, our experience was affected by one of the Asian staff members, who was unfortunately very rude and unfriendly. We didn’t do anything to warrant such behavior, but she had a mean expression the whole time, didn’t explain what the dishes were when serving them, and even left us mid-service to attend to another table. It felt quite disrespectful. Aside from that, the food and the atmosphere were truly great.

June C.

I’ve been here twice, and both times I was served by the same Asian female staff member whose attitude was impatient and unpleasant. After reading other reviews, I realized I’m not the only one who has had issues with her service.

This time, I simply asked to confirm my coffee order, but she responded in a dismissive and annoyed manner, as if I was bothering her.

To be fair, their carrot cake is one of the best I’ve ever had, and it was the main reason I came back for a second visit. However, the poor attitude of the staff has really disappointed me. I’m now considering finding an alternative place and won’t be returning.

Rachele L.

What a beautiful start of the day! I was lucky and found a quiet cafe, got myself an oat cappuccino and really enjoyed the beautiful weather and silence ! it did get crowded after 10ish so i’d recommend going early ! didn’t try the food but the coffee was decent! staff was lovely!

Anna K.

Beautiful, one of a kind, magical - the sound and the smell of the forrest, the wooden decking, the scent of the blossom from the garden behind, took me to my childhood memories in an instant.

I visited with my children and a friend, and ordered two rounds of hot drinks, pastries and cakes - a combination to stay and to go, to be more flexible as the children played at the nearby adventure playground. It was pricey but the coffee was excellent, hot chocolate perfect for the kids, pastries delicious and high quality, polenta and carrot cakes mouthwatering.

On the cakes, we we were served the “end bit” in a paper bag and didn’t realize until we started working on out food - given it was £4.85 a slice and for my guest, I discreetly asked if I could have it replaced with one of the slices that were displayed. The barista showed a bit of an attitude, asked me to bring the other slice back, then offered a super slim replacement, as if to prove a point. I honestly didn’t need that and it wasn’t about the money, so I left both behind and didn’t ask for a refund. He grumpily commented that he was only there to make coffee - awful energy!

All other members of staff were great though, if only a bit overwhelmed with how busy it got towards lunchtime.