A new chapter in the life of the Berkswell Village Store has begun and it is now trading as a café and meeting space under the name of ‘The Nook’.
The Store has been serving the local community for over a hundred years but closed early in 2024 and since then the Trustees of Berkswell Charities, its owners, have been seeking a means to reopen this familiar and much loved hub in the village..
The Nook is being run by Emma Topsom, who has extensive experience in catering and the licensed trade locally.
Within days of opening in January, Emma said there were times when she was ‘rushed off her feet’, such was the attraction of the venue to locals and visitors alike and she has taken on two former members of staff to help meet customer demand.
Already a group taking French classes have returned for their regular Monday and Wednesday meet-ups; and mums, dads and grandparents are also dropping in after delivering or collecting children at Berkswell CoE School.
Cyclists who were regular visitors in recent years have also started coming back and word is spreading amongst cycling and motorcycling groups that the venue is open for quality refreshments once again.
Asked why she had chosen the name, ‘The Nook’ she said it was because a nook is a cosy and comfortable corner which is what she aims to provide for customers.
She said she had considered naming her venture, ‘Caffeine on the Green’ or ‘Berkswell Brew’ but The Nook won out in the end.
Alongside serving some carefully selected cakes and baked goods, Emma also bakes her own cakes, brownies and biscuits. The Nook also provides a range of breakfast dishes, sandwiches, toasties and hot and cold drinks. The business is open seven days a week, opening 8.30 – 4.00 Monday to Friday, 9.00 – 3.00 on Saturday and 10.00 – 2.00 on Sunday
The Chairman of Berkswell Charities, Andrew Yates, said: “We are delighted that Emma has launched The Nook and we look forward to her building a successful venture and much needed facility at the heart of Berkswell village.