This November, we’re thrilled to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Emerson Café! Over the past year, the café has become a cherished hub in our community, growing in popularity and fostering a vibrant atmosphere for connection, learning, and relaxation.

As part of Emerson College, the café plays a key role in supporting the vast array of anthroposophical events and conferences hosted on campus. Tutors and participants enjoy stopping by during breaks for a hot drink, organic coffee, and an array of delicious treats and snacks. The café frequently buzzes with students studying, meeting for discussions, and exchanging ideas, creating a dynamic and enriching environment.

The Emerson Café has also become a favorite destination for Forest Row locals. Remote workers and students often find it the perfect spot for focus and inspiration. We’re delighted to welcome homeschool families and dog walkers, too—children are always welcome inside, and dogs can enjoy the terrace, where the stunning views of the Emerson gardens provide a tranquil backdrop. It’s an ideal place to catch up with friends or family in a warm and inviting space.

Community Events and Activities

We’re delighted to host regular events at the café, bringing people together for creativity and connection. Highlights include:

• Knitting group: Meeting every Thursday afternoon.
• Silent Book Club: Hosted by Mel Parks (Honeyleaf Writing), this nurturing group offers a unique combination of book discussions and silent reading. After enjoying a hot drink and a treat, participants discuss their current reads, spend an hour in quiet reading, and reconnect to share thoughts. The next session will be held in the new year.
• Anthroposophical Astrology group: Gathering on Monday mornings.
• Singing and Storytelling Events: Throughout the year, we host magical evenings of music and tales. Our next event, celebrating Yuletide, will take place on 14th December from 6-8 pm with tickets available from the cafe.

Delicious Offerings and Exciting Plans
Our menu celebrates high-quality, organic ingredients. We proudly serve a variety of treats, including:
– Fresh pastries and gluten-free quiches from The Sussex Kitchen.
– Vegan flapjacks, brownies, and banana bread from local artisan bakers.
– A wide selection of organic snacks and drinks catering to vegan and gluten-free diets.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to launch customer loyalty cards, offering regular visitors a free hot drink after several purchases. Soon, we’ll introduce hot food options—including soups, baguettes, puddings, and salads—all prepared in the Emerson Kitchens with home-grown and locally sourced, organic, and biodynamic ingredients.

As winter approaches, we’re planning even more cozy updates, including a wood burner to warm the café and blankets for those enjoying our terrace. A covered outdoor seating area will ensure walkers and nature lovers can continue to immerse themselves in Emerson’s stunning grounds, whatever the weather.

Thank you for being part of our journey over the past year. We’re so grateful for your support and look forward to welcoming you to the Emerson Café for another year of connection, inspiration, and delicious offerings.

More information can be found at emerson.org.uk/cafe.