Welcome

A bunch of friends got together a couple of years ago and thought some big thoughts together…

'What difference would a coffee shop, firmly rooted in the community, oozing style, character and hospitality, vibrant with creativity and real people expressing themselves, make to a bleak and centreless community like the Holyland?'

'What could a thriving business that gave away all its profits to charities working in the third world achieve in real terms, in the great scheme of things?'

We weren't really sure but we thought we would give it a go and find out.

We engaged in manic fundraising and managed to get a big pile of cash together, given by individuals as potty as us. We got the use of a property on University Avenue, a load of volunteer labour and on the 20th September 2004, the dream became a reality and the questions began to be answered.

Our product is excellent speciality coffees, chunky soups and fresh gourmet sandwiches, made to order, to eat in or take-out. We will open from 11am until 10pm Mon-Thurs, then 11am until 6pm Sat.

Common Grounds has seating for 30 inside with room for a further 20 on a large south-facing patio under the shade of a cherry tree. As it is a relatively small space we have a no-smoking policy but hope customers can use the patio should they wish to smoke.