STORY
Our Story
The van, where it all began . . .
The van, where it all began . . .
Way back in 2008, barista Charlie & her (then black) little van with 3 wheels rocked up to St Albans station for the first time. Inspired by years of working in cafes & immersing herself in café-culture around the UK, she wanted to bring speciality coffee to the people of St Albans.
A stop at Charlie’s van became a morning ritual for many with commuters waiting in line for their “usuals” served with a sprinkling of morning cheer. The Charlie's journey had begun . . .
And then came the shop . . .
And then came the shop . . .
After six years of early starts at the station & after building up a merry band of loyal customers it was time to add a little more Charlie's to St Albans!
Charlie’s coffee shop opened in 2014 on London Road opposite (ish) the Odyssey Cinema. It's a light-filled space, on the sunny side of the street. It's a beautifully tiny coffee shop which emits a jolly spirit. It’s out of town & well rooted in the community. Come rain, snow or sun you’ll be welcomed with warmth by the friendly crew who’ve learnt the Charlie’s way.
Serving St Albans for 15 years!
Serving St Albans for 15 years!
In 2023 we celebrate 15 years of serving St Albans - horray! Whether you're a new customer or one from way back when, we hope you come along for the journey with us!
Award Winning
We’ve won several local awards for our customer service, our speciality coffee & our sustainability policies but it's our customers who bring us the best feedback by visiting day in day out.
To those who have been visiting us for many years, a BIG thank you to you, we couldn't do it without you. To the newer folk, we like you lots too.
Super Baristas
Good people are what makes Charlie's - the customers, the crew, our suppliers. We're incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such good'uns!
Our crew are a special bunch of coffee loving humans. We're all jolly (even before espresso!) & do our utmost to serve you tip top coffee made with care & a big old spoonful of cheer.
Strong Morals
Morals as strong as our coffee. Community & ethics are the heart of what we do & we work hard behind the scenes be a thoughtful & considerate business.
The details you don't see are as important to us as the ones you do: who provides our energy, who we bank with, our coffee ground recycling schemes & who supplies our bakery goods, coffee & milk, not to mention how we treat our crew.
Brewin' since
Brewin' since
2008
2008
Locations
Locations
2
2
Wheels
Wheels
3
3
Fun o'meter
Fun o'meter
100%
100%