Owner Lynne chats with some of her dedicated customers. Photo: Adriane Scott-Kemp

You Don’t Bring Me Flowers‘ in Hither Green is not just a florist, its not just a cafe – it’s an experience.

Pushing open the heavy wooden door reveals a magical space: flowers spill across the room, homemade baked delights adorn the counter, boutique cards and gifts nestle in pockets of shop while vintage furniture and antique china fill any remaining space.

No wonder this unique shop, which opened 6 years ago, has effortlessly brushed aside any recession woes and remains as busy as ever.

The owner, Lynne Norledge, was a local of Hither Green for 5 years before opening You Don’t Bring Me Flowers. The near-by neighbourhood, Blackheath, has always had dozens of cafes and delis and it struck Lynne: “why haven’t we got anything like that in Hither Green?”.

All the goods in this boutique cafe are locally sourced or made in the UK. The cakes and biscuits are all supplied by local bakers – Lynne’s own mother is among the talents – while the bread comes from a local Blackheath bakery. The delicately handmade cards and numerous treasures are products from small designer boutiques. Visiting this local gem is not just a slice of pampered heaven for yourself, it is also a way of supporting a number of local businesses. What more could you want from an afternoon tea?

You Don’t Bring Me Flowers

15 Staplehurst Rd, Hither Green, London, SE135ND

www.youdontbringmeflowers.co.uk

020 8297 2333