Rye Bakery Café, Frome
A Lunch That Feels a Bit Special
Tucked away on Whittox Lane, Rye Bakery Café sits inside a beautiful old church. The moment you walk in, it feels different. High ceilings. Soft light. Calm energy. Original features remain, giving the space real character. Frome does food well. However, this place really stands out. It is peaceful. It is welcoming. Most importantly, it is delicious. Perfect for a relaxed lunch that still feels like a treat. A place to slow down and enjoy every bite. Tucked away on Whittox Lane, Rye Bakery Café sits inside a beautiful old church. The moment you walk in, it feels different. High ceilings. Soft light. Calm energy. Frome does food well. However, this place really stands out. It is peaceful. It is welcoming. Most importantly, it is delicious. Perfect for a relaxed lunch that still feels like a treat. Website
The Farinata That Steals the Show
The Farinata here is something else. A chickpea savoury pancake. Crisp at the edges. Soft in the middle. It comes topped with a rich beetroot ragù and a handful of fresh local salad leaves. Every bite feels balanced. Earthy. Comforting. Yet fresh. The flavours build slowly. Nothing shouts. Everything works together. It is vegan. It is gluten-free. Even better, it is packed with flavour. You leave feeling satisfied, not heavy, which makes it perfect for a laid-back afternoon in Frome.
Simple Things Done Really Well
Sometimes all you want is a proper toasted cheese sandwich. Rye Bakery Café nails it. Golden sourdough. Perfectly toasted. The cheese melted just right. Each bite is warm and comforting. It arrives with a fresh, crisp salad on the side, lightly dressed and full of crunch. No fuss. No gimmicks. Just honest food done properly. Add a good coffee, and you are winning at lunch. It is the kind of meal that slows you down. One you actually savour.
Meanwhile, the sourdough bread deserves a mention on its own. Properly fermented. Full of flavour. A great crust with a soft centre. It is the backbone of everything good here. From sandwiches to toast, it quietly steals the show.
Leave Room for Cake
Even if you say you won’t, you will. The counter makes sure of that. Rich brownies. Proper scones. Flaky pain aux raisins. Classic pain au chocolat. All baked with care. Each pastry feels fresh, with textures that are light yet indulgent. The chocolate in the pain au chocolat melts perfectly, while the scones are just soft enough to split with a knife and enjoy with jam or butter. All is hard to resist. Therefore, lunch often turns into a slow afternoon, lingering over coffee and treats, savouring every bite. And honestly, that feels like the right decision.
Rye Bakery Café is one of those places that keeps you coming back. Great food. Thoughtful cooking. Friendly staff. A calm, welcoming atmosphere. The old church setting adds charm and a sense of occasion to every visit. A Frome favourite for very good reason, it’s a place where simple food is elevated, and even the smallest treat feels special.
Location Rye Bakery Café, Frome
10 Things to Do in Frome, Somerset – A Charming Town Full of Surprises
Frome is one of Somerset’s hidden gems. A town where history meets creativity, where cobbled streets hide independent shops, cosy cafés, and quirky corners just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Here’s a guide to 10 must-do things in Frome.
1. Explore Frome’s Historic Town Centre
The heart of Frome is full of character. Wander through the cobbled streets, peek into independent shops, and discover unique boutiques selling everything from handmade jewellery to vintage finds. Street art appears around corners, adding a splash of colour to the historic buildings. It’s the kind of place where getting lost feels like part of the fun.
2. Lunch at Rye Bakery Café
Tucked away on Whittox Lane, Rye Bakery Café is a foodie gem. Housed in a beautiful old church, it offers everything from a crisp, flavour-packed Farinata to perfectly toasted cheese sandwiches. Don’t leave without trying a brownie, scone, or flaky pain au chocolat – the counter makes dessert irresistible. With friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
3. Frome Market
Visit on a Thursday for the famous Frome Market. Stalls spill into the streets, offering fresh local produce, crafts, antiques, and street food. It’s a feast for the senses, and a great place to pick up a souvenir or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. Frome locals say it’s the best day to experience the town in full swing.
4. Craneswater Gardens
For a touch of calm, head to Craneswater Gardens. This peaceful green space is perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or just sitting with a book. Seasonal blooms, manicured lawns, and shady spots make it a hidden oasis in the heart of the town.
5. The Black Swan Arts Centre
Creativity pulses through Frome, and the Black Swan Arts Centre is at its heart. With changing exhibitions, performances, and workshops, there’s always something new to discover. It’s a space where local talent shines and visitors can experience the vibrant arts scene firsthand.
6. Somerset Vineyard Tours
Frome is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including several vineyards. Take a short drive out of town to explore local vineyards, sample award-winning wines, and learn about the craft behind Somerset’s wine-making tradition. A relaxing and scenic experience for any day tripper.
7. Frome Museum
Step into Frome Museum to uncover the town’s fascinating history. Exhibits include textiles, engineering, and local heritage, giving a deep sense of the area’s past. It’s small but packed with stories that bring Frome’s character to life.
8. St John’s Church
St John’s Church is a striking medieval building that adds to Frome’s historic charm. Its architecture and peaceful interior make it worth a visit. Even if you’re not religious, the sense of calm and history is undeniable.
9. Celtic Roundhouse at Butleigh Wootton
A short drive out of Frome brings you to the reconstructed Iron Age Celtic Roundhouse. Step back in time and explore what life was like centuries ago. The site is interactive and fun, giving adults and children alike a hands-on historical experience.
10. Walk Along the River Frome
Finally, take a stroll along the River Frome. The riverside path offers scenic views, wildlife spotting, and a chance to enjoy the surrounding countryside without leaving town. It’s an easy way to slow down and take in the beauty of Somerset.
Frome is a town that surprises at every corner. Whether it’s history, food, art, or nature you’re after, there’s something for everyone. It’s the kind of place you leave wanting to return, with memories of cobbled streets, friendly faces, and delicious treats lingering long after you’ve gone.
