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Harris & James Store Southwold: Artisan Gelato, Chocolate & Coffee Haven

Artisan gelato, bean-to-bar chocolate, fresh coffee, and hand-made pizzas in the heart of charming Southwold.

4.6

Harris & James in Southwold is a charming artisan café and shop renowned for its handcrafted Italian gelato made from local milk, rich bean-to-bar chocolate, freshly roasted coffee, and homemade cakes. Located at 11 East Street, this vibrant spot also offers handmade pizzas and an inviting upstairs seating area, blending traditional craftsmanship with a lively, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Southwold.

A brief summary to Harris & James Store Southwold

  • 11 East St, Southwold, IP18 6EH, GB
  • +441502722064
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Try the gelato flavors like Key Lime Pie and strawberry peanutty for a unique taste experience.
  • Visit the upstairs seating area for a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your treats.
  • Sample the bean-to-bar chocolates, which are crafted with care and offer rich, complex flavors.
  • The store is dog friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along.
  • Hand-made pizzas are available, perfect for a casual meal alongside your coffee or dessert.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service to Southwold town center, which runs regularly from nearby towns like Beccles and Halesworth. The bus stop is about a 5-minute walk from Harris & James. Tickets typically cost £3-£5 one way, and services operate throughout the day with reduced frequency on Sundays.

  • Car

    Driving to Harris & James is straightforward with street parking available nearby on East Street and surrounding roads. Parking is free but limited, so arriving early is recommended. The journey from Beccles takes about 20 minutes via the A145. Note that the town center can be busy during peak season.

  • Train plus Taxi

    The nearest train station is Darsham, approximately 7 miles from Southwold. From Darsham, a taxi ride to Harris & James takes around 15 minutes and costs approximately £20-£25. This option is ideal if you prefer a scenic train journey combined with a quick taxi transfer.

  • Walking

    If staying in Southwold town, Harris & James is within comfortable walking distance from most central accommodations. The walk involves flat, paved streets and takes about 10-15 minutes from the beach or town center, making it an easy and pleasant stroll.

Harris & James Store Southwold location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about Harris & James Store Southwold

A Celebration of Artisan Craftsmanship

Harris & James Southwold stands out as a beacon of authentic artisan food and drink. The store specializes in Italian gelato crafted from the finest local milk, delivering a creamy, fresh taste that delights visitors year-round. Complementing the gelato is their bean-to-bar chocolate, produced with meticulous care to capture rich, pure cocoa flavors. Their coffee is freshly roasted on-site, ensuring every cup is a perfect balance of aroma and taste. This dedication to quality and tradition is evident in every product, from cakes baked in-house to their hand-made pizzas, making Harris & James a multifaceted culinary destination.

Atmosphere and Setting in Historic Southwold

Situated on East Street, one of Southwold’s quaint thoroughfares, the store offers a cozy yet vibrant environment. The addition of an upstairs seating area provides a relaxed space to enjoy their offerings, whether indulging in a scoop of gelato or savoring a freshly brewed coffee. The shop’s interior reflects a warm, inviting aesthetic that complements the artisanal nature of its products. Its location in a historic coastal town enriches the experience, blending local charm with the pleasures of expertly crafted treats.

Menu Highlights and Culinary Delights

The menu at Harris & James is diverse yet focused on quality. Their gelato features a rotating selection of flavors, including favorites like Key Lime Pie and strawberry peanutty, showcasing creativity and texture. The chocolate range offers unique bars and confections that appeal to true chocolate lovers. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the specialty roasts, while the bakery’s cakes and hand-made pizzas round out the menu, providing options for casual meals or indulgent snacks. Seasonal specials and festive treats add to the appeal throughout the year.

Community and Sustainability Values

Harris & James emphasizes local sourcing and sustainable practices, using local milk and carefully selected cocoa beans. This approach not only supports regional producers but also ensures freshness and quality. The store is part of a wider network of Harris & James locations across Suffolk and Norfolk, each maintaining the same commitment to craftsmanship and community engagement. The welcoming, dog-friendly environment and beach proximity make it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.

Experience and Visitor Engagement

Visitors to Harris & James can expect more than just food and drink; it’s an immersive experience in artisanal tradition. The store’s blend of café, chocolate shop, gelateria, and pizzeria creates a unique atmosphere that invites lingering and exploration. Whether enjoying a quiet coffee upstairs or sampling a variety of chocolates, the sensory experience is rich and memorable. The friendly staff and quality products foster a sense of connection and delight, making it a must-visit destination in Southwold.

Practical Details and Accessibility

Open daily from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM, Harris & James offers convenient hours for visitors. The location includes seating and is dog friendly, with street parking nearby. While the store is accessible to most, the upstairs seating may have limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges. The combination of easy access and a central location in Southwold makes it a practical stop for a casual meal, dessert, or coffee break during a day exploring the town.

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