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Cafe Sunshine
★ 4.0(1 review)Café
riversidefriendlycommunity-focused
About the Vibe
Perched right on the Thames embankment near Eel Pie Island, Cafe Sunshine is the kind of unpretentious spot that feels like a local secret. You'll find yourself drawn to the riverside terrace on sunny afternoons, sipping freshly brewed coffee while watching the boats drift by. What really sets this place apart isn't just the view—it's the heart behind it. They employ adults with learning disabilities, creating a genuinely welcoming atmosphere where the staff's kindness is as evident as the homemade soup on the menu.
Known For
- •thames river views
- •homemade soup & bread
- •employment of adults with learning disabilities
- •affordable cream tea
Best For
afternoon coffeecasual family mealsriver-side relaxation
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 9, 2026
Riverside charm with a heart of gold
Cafe Sunshine feels like the kind of place you stumble upon when you're exploring along the Thames embankment, but once you've been, you'll make it a regular stop. The location is genuinely unbeatable—sit outside on the terrace and you've got a front-row seat to the river life, with Eel Pie Island just across the water. The coffee is solid and reasonably priced, which is always a bonus in this part of London.
What makes this place special, though, is the community spirit. They employ adults with learning disabilities, and you can feel the difference in the atmosphere. The staff are genuinely warm and thoughtful, and there's something really nice about supporting a business that's giving people real opportunities. The menu is simple but well-executed—I've had their homemade soup with bread multiple times, and it's consistently good value.
It's not fancy, and that's exactly the point. This is a no-frills cafe that does the basics really well while doing something good for the community. Perfect for a quiet afternoon by the river, or if you're just passing through Twickenham and want a proper cuppa with a view.