A few weekends ago, before I set off on my mission to find the Wood Street Walls murals in Walthamstow, John and I stopped for some lunch at Hillman's Tea Room.
Located in Wood Street's delightful Georgian Village, it's a fantastic little place for afternoon tea and - as John pointed out - the perfect place to take a book to read in a corner with a slice of cake.
I fell in love with its charming 1930s/1940s decor, complete with an antique black and white television and beautiful vintage plates and tea sets (which are also available for sale!). Attention has been given to every little detail in the tearoom: from the vintage boardgames that were strategically placed near our feet to the pretty floral paper adorning the walls.
In many ways, Hillman's reminded me of some of the lovely, unpretentious tearooms up in York that served nothing but good, strong tea and slice after slice of comforting cake. Tucked away in this little pocket of Walthamstow, it felt like a wonderful secret - but one I'd love to share with friends.
I mean, just look at this teapot and cup and saucer! So. Sweet.
Mostly? The food at Hillman's completely won me over. Our triple-decker chicken and avocado toasted sandwiches arrived piping hot (just the way I like it!) and were served with a delicious side salad drizzled with a sweet balsamic dressing.
As I wolfed down my sandwich, I already had my eye on the cakes (I was particularly "hangry" that day) and was pleased to see that Hillman's also offered gluten-free and vegan options - perfect for a potential meet-up with my friend Laura (who writes the amazing vegan-for-non-vegans blog, The Whole Ingredient and lives just a stone's throw away from me).
On the day we visited, the shelves were filled with enticing jars of fluffy meringues and freshly baked cookies plus cake stands that featured a gluten-free Victoria sponge, vegan banana cake, carrot cake, and a beautiful tart. Honestly? The hardest decision I had to make that day.
In the end, we opted for a slice of the Victoria sponge and a pot of English Breakfast (for me) and carrot cake and with a pot of Lapsang Souchong (for John).
The cakes were divine. The loose-leaf tea was even better: it's sourced from Scotland, apparently.
Wherever it comes from, I have to get my hands on that English Breakfast blend. I've never had better (and I've been to my fair share of afternoon teas - both fancy and low key!).
So, if you're ever up my way, think about dropping into Hillman's. Mostly, I'm just excited about a place within walking distance from our new house that serves such amazing food and tea. Heck, I'd just go back for some toast! The pretty crockery and lovely atmosphere? Icing on the cake.
Hillman’s Tearoom is located at The Georgian Village, 100 Wood Street, Walthamstow, London E17 3HX. Gluten-free and vegan afternoon teas are available to book in advance: +44 (0)7742 436995.
