A closer look at the independent coffee scene across the South East.
How many independent coffee shops are there in our local area?
It’s a simple question, but finding an accurate answer is not quite so straightforward.
Independent coffee shops are part of the character of our towns and villages. From specialist espresso bars and neighbourhood cafés to welcoming community coffee shops, they offer something different from the familiar national chains.
But just how big is the independent coffee scene across Hampshire and Berkshire?
The UK picture
The independent coffee shop sector is an important part of Britain’s hospitality industry.
According to World Coffee Portal’s 2026 research, the UK has an estimated 13,211 independent coffee shop outlets, representing annual growth of 3.3%.
The sector is diverse, ranging from specialist coffee businesses to traditional local cafés.
What about our region?
Looking closer to home, some interesting figures begin to emerge.
A 2025 study by Simply Business identified Reading as having approximately 12 independent coffee shops per 100,000 residents, based on its insurance customer data.
Meanwhile, Capital on Tap’s 2026 research found that independent businesses represented 66.3% of coffee shops in Portsmouth.
These figures offer an interesting glimpse into the strength of independent coffee businesses in the South East.
However, they are not a complete count of Hampshire or Berkshire. Different studies use different definitions and data sources, and there is currently no single comprehensive public figure covering both counties.
Why independent coffee shops matter
Independent coffee shops do more than serve coffee.
They create meeting places, support local employment, bring individuality to high streets and give customers the opportunity to discover different coffees, flavours and experiences.
Each business has its own story, personality and approach.
That’s what makes exploring the independent coffee scene so interesting.
Counting the coffee scene, one discovery at a time
At The Cup Guide, we want to help bring these independent businesses into the spotlight.
We’re beginning in Hampshire and expanding across the South East, discovering independent coffee shops, roasters and businesses supporting the coffee industry.
As our directory grows, so will our picture of the regional coffee landscape.
We may not have a definitive number for every independent coffee shop just yet, but we believe every discovery helps tell a bigger story.
The Cup Guide — Discover coffee differently.
