Ide Hill Community Shop - Sevenoaks

Neil F

Ide Hill Community Shop: The Harrods of the Kent Countryside

Nestled in the picturesque village of Ide Hill, this charming community shop is not just a place to grab groceries – it’s a lifestyle choice. Forget your soulless supermarket giants; Ide Hill Community Shop is where the elite come for their essentials… and a cheeky slice of cake.

Step inside, and you’re greeted by shelves of carefully curated produce, lovingly arranged as if preparing for a Country Living photoshoot. Whether you’re picking up milk, a jar of posh jam, or a handmade trinket you didn’t know you needed, everything here whispers, “You’ve made an excellent life choice.” The locals may call it a shop, but we all know it’s really an artisanal treasure trove.

And then there’s the cake. Oh, the cake! Lovingly baked and displayed like edible works of art, these slices are practically begging for their own Instagram account. Whether you opt for Victoria sponge, a lemon drizzle, or something else equally divine, you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into Mary Berry’s secret stash.

Of course, no visit is complete without a coffee. Served with the kind of warmth that feels like a hug in a mug, you’ll sip your brew while sitting at one of their gingham-covered tables – the very pinnacle of countryside chic. The gingham tablecloths, by the way, deserve their own five-star review. They’re the unsung heroes of the experience, perfectly framing your cake and coffee like a scene from a quaint British romcom.

And the views! Through the windows or from your outdoor perch, you’re treated to the rolling hills of Kent. Honestly, if someone told you Richard Curtis had storyboarded the entire setting, you’d believe them.

Ide Hill Community Shop isn’t just a shop – it’s a sanctuary. Whether you’re popping in for a loaf of bread, a slice of heaven (cake), or simply to soak up the gingham-clad atmosphere, this little gem will have you feeling like you’ve stumbled upon the very heart of Kent. Five stars, and if they sold souvenir tea towels, I’d buy three.

April van Es

Excellent latte. I was concerned that it was prepared by a machine but it was a super delicious. The Victoria sponge was nice but not outstanding (So therefore 4 stars rather than 5) as the ladies serving were really friendly and prices couldn't be faulted (£2 for coffee and £2 for cake). The view was free!

Agnello Guarracino

Is this place ever open, it's midday on a Sunday, I've got money to spend, the car park is full of other people taking in the fantastic views, there's cyclists everywhere and as ever this place is locked shut.

Stephen Green

Such a friendly and well-stocked local shop! Popular with cyclists for coffee and locals alike.
The team here are wonderful!; quick if you want to buy a few household essentials or happy to have a chat and bring some cheer to your day if you have more time.
There's also a lovely picnic spot just above the shop to enjoy the view!

Steve Pearce

Community shop and cafe , very popular with motorcyclists and cyclists , lovely views and friendly staff.

Stars

Lovely service and location with good views, always a pleasant visit and coffee is tasty too, food is okay.

Nothing to do with the shop and cafe but the toilet outside is very annoying, used to be free, then 20p, then 40p and now 60p to use, just as well there are bushes nearby, not paying that amount.

Ian Thompson

Lovely people. Popular place for cyclists to stop for refreshments. Great view

Michael Salmon

A lovely friendly place to stop on a bike ride. Great views, nice cake, ok coffee.