Places of Welcome at Cosy Cafe – Building Community and Friendship

Weekly Open Session: Tuesdays, 10:30 am - 1:30 pm, Bridgeway Hall Methodist Church, Nottingham

Nestled in Nottingham’s Bridgeway Hall Methodist Church, the Cosy Cafe welcomes people from all walks of life to share in warm conversation, a free lunch, and a friendly atmosphere. Part of the Places of Welcome network, the Cosy Cafe brings together new and long-time residents, creating a space where friendships blossom and everyone feels at home. Here, people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs meet, share stories, and support one another—a fitting reflection of the spirit of Interfaith Week.

Graham’s Story – Participant at the Cosy Cafe
“I was out walking my dogs when two regulars invited me in,” Graham recalls. “They were petting my dogs, and we got chatting. They told me this place is like a cafe where anyone can come in for a coffee and a free lunch, and they encouraged me to give it a try. So, I took my dogs home and have been coming back every week since!

I’ve only been in this area for about eight months, and this was my first time in the Methodist Church building. I live alone, so I really look forward to coming here to chat with people from different backgrounds and hear their stories. The friendship and companionship keep me coming back. Although I don’t necessarily need the free meal, I like to make small donations—bringing coffee or treats for the dog. They run a Food Pantry and a Sunday Supper, which I don’t attend but happily support with donations. It feels good to contribute to something that helps the community.

Coming to the Cosy Cafe has helped me feel at home in this area. I was actually born nearby in The Meadows, but we moved away when I was very young. Being here feels like coming home. I’ve made good friends, and I’ll keep coming for as long as I can. Not everyone knows about this place, but I think more people should because everyone is welcome.”