Charlie & Ginger – Epsom

A Space I Found by Accident — and Keep Coming Back To

I discovered Charlie & Ginger not long after moving to the area, during one of those quiet walks where you’re just getting your bearings. It’s tucked just off the main high street, but it stood out instantly. Since then, it’s become one of my go-to spots — a place to study, relax, catch up with friends, or just enjoy some time alone. It doesn’t try too hard to be anything in particular, and that’s what makes it so inviting. It feels welcoming, not performative.

Atmosphere: Where Style Meets Comfort

What really struck me first was the atmosphere. Half the space is wrapped in dark navy — walls, door and window frames, the ceiling — which gives it depth and mood. But it’s lifted by warm lighting, wooden floors, white upper walls, and loads of greenery that keeps the space feeling light and full of energy. There are small, playful details too — like brass animal coat hooks and metal sugar pots that contrast beautifully against the darker furniture. It’s a subtle balance between modern and vintage, with just enough personality to make it interesting but never overstated. The music adds to this balance: a mix of mellow beats, soft electronics, and relaxed pop that helps fill the room without taking it over. It’s not quiet, but never loud. Just comfortably alive.

A Place for Everyone

One of the nicest things about Charlie & Ginger is the mix of people it attracts. You’ll see students working on laptops, older locals reading the paper, people on their lunch break, friends catching up over coffee. Even though I’m new to the area, it’s easy to feel like part of the rhythm here. It’s also one of my favourite places to study, there’s enough background noise to stay focused, without the pressure to leave the moment you finish your drink. The staff are warm and welcoming, but relaxed. It’s somewhere you can settle in and stay.

Great Coffee, Simple Food, No Gimmicks

The drinks menu doesn’t shout for attention — but it doesn’t need to. It’s classic, reliable, and well done. They use fresh Ozone coffee, and offer a full range of styles: espresso, iced coffee, teas, smoothies, juices. It’s not reinventing anything, but it’s consistent and great quality. The food menu leans towards brunch and light bites — think sharing plates, sides, and sandwiches. My favourite is the poached eggs on sourdough. It is simple but done right, exactly what you want it to be. It’s the kind of place where you quickly find a favourite and stick with it.

Why It Feels Like a Second Home

There’s something about the style and feel of Charlie & Ginger that reminds me of my own space — the combination of dark tones, natural wood, soft lighting, and greenery mirrors the way I’ve decorated my bedroom. I think that’s part of what makes it feel so instantly comfortable. Even as someone still getting to know the area, it’s become a kind of anchor point. It doesn’t feel like a typical café — it feels like a third place: somewhere between home and work where you can exist, think, connect, or switch off. And that’s what makes it special.