Our Story

The van, where it all began . . .

Inspired by years of working in cafes & immersing herself in café-culture around the UK, Charlie wanted to bring speciality coffee to the people of St Albans. Way back in 2008 she rocked up to St Albans station with her 3 wheeled coffee van to brew amazing coffee for the commuters of St Albans

A stop at Charlie’s van became a morning ritual for many. Waiting in line for their “usuals” served with a sprinkling of morning cheer

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 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 by our friendly crew who emit a friendly glow with every cup they brew

 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

2008

Locations

2

Wheels

3

Fun o'meter

100%