Holbrook Heart Cafe

At St Mark’s Church in Holbrook, community and connection are at the heart of everything they do. The Holbrook Heart Café offers a welcoming space where everyone is invited to enjoy homemade cakes, hot drinks, and friendly conversation, all free of charge. The café has become a vibrant hub where people of all ages can come together to chat, play games, knit, crochet, and share skills.

For many, the café is more than just a place to visit, it’s a lifeline of friendship and support. Jo, Senior Administrator at St Mark’s, reflects on its remarkable journey:

“It’s been phenomenal. Back in 2016, we started as a small space for parents after the school run, offering toast, cereal, and fruit juice. It grew steadily, and just before the pandemic, we had 50 to 60 people coming each week. During lockdown, we operated as a takeaway when we could, and when we reopened, we adjusted our hours and that small change made a huge difference. Now, we regularly welcome more than 100 people!”

Holbrook Heart Café isn’t just for church members, it’s truly a community space. By partnering with local GP surgeries and social prescribing networks, the café has welcomed people looking for friendship, support, and a place to belong. The nearby care home also brings residents along when possible, ensuring no one is left out.

“We’ve heard time and again that people are looking for spaces where they can feel welcome, without pressure or judgment,” Jo shares. “People often ask, ‘We’re not part of the church, can we still come in?’ The answer is always yes. This café is open to all.”

Beyond coffee and conversation, the café meets practical needs too. A clothes and toy exchange has been set up, helping families in need while fostering a culture of sharing and generosity.

This Easter, as we reflect on the themes of welcome, hospitality, and hope, Holbrook Heart Café is a reminder of the power of community. Through simple acts of kindness, lasting relationships are built and lives are transformed.