Hail to the Hive!

After a wonderful time in Egypt we were back in Blighty (the UK) and as I was feeling a little restless I decided to accompany @diveratt to Exeter one morning as he was on Jury duty there and I had pretty much nothing to do really. I figured I could have a wander round and afterwards we could have a few beers. So once he'd tootled off to cast judgement on the defendant in that case I went for a walk around the town.

There's some nice old buildings in Exeter and, as I was taking a few casual photos of one, I happened to notice a sign that I at first thought might be part of it's older history. It took a moment to register but, no, I was correct 'Drakes Coffee House' was indeed a current coffee house and not something from ye olde days of Exeter.

I peered through the entranceway and there was an alley leading to what I could only assume was' Coffee' , or at least I hoped so as I was gagging for a cup.

I glanced down and saw a menu signboard and thought hmmmmm maybe brekkie too to go along with some mmmm delicious coffee.

Once I had entered I thought the place was quite charming. I had nearly not noticed that it was a cafe as it had made use of the old building in such a tasteful way, so as not to spoil the architecture. I picked out a seat in the corner so I could see everyone and everything and people watch. I then ordered a black coffee.

I always know I am going to guzzle the first one. I took a sip and perused the menu. mmm Strong and slightly nutty. I was pleasantly surprised. As it is the UK and a cafe you never know but this was good.

Now when you've been away, out of the country for a while, there are certain things you crave upon your return and one of those is you grew up in England is a 'Full English Breakfast'

I would normally wash down this bad boy with a big mug of English Tea and await the impending heart failure but not today. Another coffee was in order as it had been such a pleasant surprise, that and I wasn't fully firing on all cylinders just yet.

As an American thet grew up in the UK I have certain misgivings and more than a little guilt that somehow 'Hash Browns' have migrated their way into an English Breakfast. I'm not sure I approve but the saving grace is that at least there was 'Black Pudding' mmmm now we are talking. Now I AM HOME!

I absolutely demolished the breakfast and ordered a 3rd coffee ( I told you it was good) and people watchd a while while I let it all settle and allowed it to slowly harden my arteries and shave a few more minutes off of my life expectancy.

As I left I was way more alert due to the 3 coffees and actually saw that there were a lot more signs showing it was a cafe. I was too busy looking up at the buildings earlier I suppose.

And also some very nice outdoor tables for eating too. I think this place is being loaded into the old grey matter memory bank for a return visit.

It was an all rounder. Great vibe, awesome coffee and if you'll pardon the pun( because of the black pudding) the breakfast was bloody good too!

😁