Libby’s Bread & Wine

I’ve never seen Libby’s Bread & Wine quiet. It probably never is, except, perhaps, when the bakers arrive at 5am to start making that day’s loaves and cakes. By mid-morning, it’s buzzing with chatter. Tables are filled as soon as they’re cleared, and even when the terrace overlooking the river Goyt is open, seats aren’t easy to come by.

This cafe-bakery-restaurant has been deservedly popular since it first opened in 2008. The confectionary in the window looks like it belongs in a French patisserie rather than in Marple Bridge. And the breakfast and lunch menus make the most of the house-baked bread and locally sourced produce.

On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, it opens in the evenings too, serving small plates, wine and cocktails. They also do afternoon teas when you give them advance notice. There’s something lovely about knowing those bakes and scones were made just for you before the sun came up.