If you’re on the hunt for a café that combines top-notch coffee, delicious homemade food, and a welcoming atmosphere where kids are free to be kids, then let me introduce you to The Oxshed.
Nestled in the heart of Cholsey Meadows, this independent, family-run café is an absolute gem, offering a warm, laid-back space to enjoy a relaxing meal—whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. And the best bit? There’s a free children’s play area, making it the perfect spot for families to unwind while little ones stay entertained.
A Café That Gets It Just Right
From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by a relaxed, friendly vibe that instantly put us at ease. Downstairs, the café boasts a cosy, rustic aesthetic with wooden tables, comfy seating, and a tempting display of cakes at the counter.
But if you venture upstairs, you’ll find an additional seating area, complete with mats and toys designed to keep younger kids happy while you sip your coffee in peace. It’s clear that The Ox Shed has has kept families in mind—without compromising on style or quality.
Food That Hits the Spot
Now, onto the most important part—the food! The menu is packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients and offers a great mix of classic favourites and modern twists. We decided to sample a few different options, and we were certainly not disappointed.
The soup of the day was a standout choice—perfectly seasoned and served with crunchy, toasted sourdough on the side, making it a comforting yet wholesome option.
Meanwhile, my mum went for the luxury sausage roll, which was golden, flaky, and packed with flavour. They’ve sold over 3000 of them and we can see why! My sister opted for the egg & mushroom bap, a simple yet satisfying combination that hit all the right notes. Safe to say, not a single crumb was left on our plates.
There were lots of delicious looking cakes displayed and I’ll definitely be back to sample them!
A Space for Everyone
Beyond the delicious food and drink, what really sets The Ox Shed apart is how well it caters to families of all ages. The play area upstairs is perfect for little ones, with plenty of soft mats and toys to keep them entertained while parents relax.
If you’ve got tweens or teens in tow, they’ll love the retro gaming machine that’s tucked away upstairs. If you can convince them to take a break from their phones, they might even get a taste of old-school gaming fun!
The Verdict
Whether you’re looking for a weekend brunch spot, a midweek coffee break, or somewhere to enjoy a relaxed lunch with the family, The Ox Shed ticks all the boxes. With its welcoming atmosphere, thoughtful touches for children, and a menu packed with flavour. Plus, with plenty of space and an inviting play area, parents can actually enjoy their coffee while it’s still hot—a rare treat!
If you’re in the Cholsey or Wallingford area, The Ox Shed is well worth a visit. Great food, great coffee, and a space where kids can just be kids—what more could you ask for?
