LONDON, PROPERLY CAFFEINATED

For the coffee aficionados amongst you, this is your moment.

The London Coffee Festival returns to the Truman Brewery this May, bringing together the best of the city’s coffee scene under one roof. Founded by Jeffrey Young (whose interview you’ll find at the back of this issue), it’s part industry event, part weekend out — and a good reminder of just how strong London’s coffee culture has become.

Across four days, you’ll find over 250 roasters, cafés and food brands pouring, brewing and sampling their way through everything from classic espresso to more experimental takes. It’s a chance to try things you wouldn’t normally order, discover new favourites, and speak directly to the people behind them.

There’s plenty going on beyond the coffee itself too. Live demos from some of the world’s best baristas, hands-on workshops, and the Coffee Masters competition — where competitors go head-to-head across a series of challenges, from latte art to signature drinks. Even if you’re not deep into the technical side, it’s worth watching for the energy alone.

Elsewhere, you’ve got The Roasters Village, Brew School and The Lab — all offering a closer look at how coffee is sourced, roasted and brewed. If you’ve ever wanted to understand what actually makes a “good” coffee, this is where you start.

It’s not all flat whites either. There’s street food, cocktails, music and art running throughout the space, so it never feels too serious. You can dip in for an hour or stay all afternoon — both work.

The first couple of days lean more industry, but by the weekend it opens up into something bigger — busy, social, and properly fun.

If you care about coffee, even slightly, it’s worth a visit. And if nothing else, you’ll leave having had a very good one.

Tickets available via their website,