The Best Hidden Coffee Shops in Scotland

Whether you’re visiting Scotland’s vibrant cities, or the magnificent Highlands and Islands, Uplands and Lowlands, there comes a time during the day when a little light refreshment and a good old caffeine kick is required.

Next time you’re in Scotland, get off the beaten track, and check out these hidden coffee shops.

The Elephant House

Address: 21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh

You haven’t visited Scotland unless you’ve spent at least one day exploring the wonders of this magnificent capital city. Once you’ve visited the old city and toured the castle, make your way to George IV Bridge for your latte or expresso. Established over 20 years, The Elephant House is popular with locals, visitors and university students alike. Not exactly one of your hidden coffee shops. Its claim to fame is they regularly supplied J K Rowling her favourite coffee, as she penned her early novels on the premises. The Elephant House also offers breakfast, lunch, teas, cakes and pastries.

Habitat Café, Aberfeldy Perthshire

Address: The Square, Aberfeldy, Perth and Kinross

If you’re hitting the Highland trail this year, Aberfeldy is a favourite stop-off for many visitors. The Habitat Café, in the town’s square, is in its sixth year and continues to go from strength to strength. From the very best of coffee, lovingly prepared local dishes, cakes and pastries, to craft beers, sparkling wines, and friendly staff, the Habitat has something for everyone.

Heaven Scent Coffee Shop

Address: Carnegie Library & Galleries, Dunfermline

If you are slipping across the Forth Bridge into Dunfermline this year, a visit to the brand new Carnegie Library and Galleries is a must. Opened in 2017, the building was awarded the Best Building in Scotland Award 2017. Housing a museum, reading rooms, and massive library, it is also home to Heaven Scent Café, a real hidden coffee shop on its mezzanine floor. Offering the very best in brunches, lunches, pastries and cakes, rest your weary feet, and soak up the stunning views over the landscaped gardens while enjoying your favourite Mocha or Cappuccino.

Papercup Coffee Company

Address: 603 Great Western Road, Glasgow

From its murky history of post-war deprivation, violence and alcoholism in the Gorbals, Glasgow has risen to become home to the Scottish Ballet, Scottish Opera and the National Theatre. It is also home to the Papercup Coffee Company, a small, unpretentious coffee shop, with its own roastery close by. With its small but tempting menu and friendly staff, it is the epitome of one of Scotland’s many hidden coffee shops.