Wesley's at Budleigh — Restaurant in East Devon

What d'ya know? Not everyone is out to make a quick buck, and some are there to provide a service and help. It was the first time at Wesley's, just around the corner from a lovely pebble beach, and I wasn't sure what to expect. Wonderfully, a carpark is attached to the church, where the café nestles in its shadows (along with a large tea garden) but parking was a little tight, although free. I double parked and left my name and number in the windscreen so if anyone needed a quick exit I could readily assist. There appears a problem with people visiting the town and parking in the carpark who then simply wander off: be aware of it when you're at the back behind another vehicle wondering why no one is answering your pleas for help. The main hall is a spacious affair, with copious tables and chairs, with the counter at the far end. Staff are lovely: polite, friendly, and engaging, led by a manager who knows why he's running the café. Understand that it's not about money (although it's nice to know it's bolstering coffers, either personal or for the church) but about people themselves. There were a number of people helping to serve, wash up, clear tables who were learning life skills that they might not necessarily have gained into early adulthood, and the purpose of the café is to be a supportive and nurturing environment. From my perspective it's working and Nina (with an "N" on her shoes) served our drinks to the table with a great big smile and a little bit of conversation. Well done Wesley's! You've created a wonderful café where new skills are learned, but also a rich and rewarding place where respect, love and compassion is exhibited. I was mightily impressed, as was my friend! The scones I chose were enormous, and which further delighted me by being freshly baked from the oven. Two packs of butter meant I could have one for both sides, unlike some that only give you one. Bravo for not being tight! The coffee was good, and my friend enjoyed her decaf tea, and I marvelled at the fact a small paging device told us when to collect our food (drinks were brought out by staff). We chatted for a long time, eventually going into the hall for some lunch. Carol had a jacket potato, which was a good size, with cheese, butter, salad and coleslaw, all homemade, and nothing to break the bank with. Another massive tick from us. Dogs are allowed if accompanied by a well behaved adult and ours was petted and given treats. He was even allowed inside! I couldn't fault the staff, the environment or the ethos and will return next time I visit Budleigh. But just to be clear, I'll pay and display elsewhere when...

Absolutely fantastic place! The best cream tea I’ve ever tasted served by the loveliest lady called Jade who was very polite and professional. Massive portions of jam and cream. I hate when there’s not enough for the whole scone but we all had some left over in our pots here. Big old teapots so we were never short on tea. The scone was warm with a crispy outside but wasn’t stodgy at all. The atmosphere was wonderful and they have a great outdoor area which i can imagine is fantastic in summer (sadly it was raining when we came). The place was clean, good value and the staff all seemed to really enjoy being there which is always good to see. Jade even gave us all fist bumps on the way out. 10/10, will be visiting every time...

What a fantastic place. Spacious, airy but also cosy. Full of crafts to browse and buy. A book library. A great community initiative too. We stopped to dry off and warm uo after a very wet walk on the beach, and they allowed us to bring the dog inside.

Really, really good coffee (a full range including mocha and iced latest, with flavoured syrups) and delicious cakes. The lunch menu also looked very tempting, (and they do frozen ready meals to...