A much-loved independent coffee shop has closed its doors after nearly five years being a staple for the local community. Neighbourhood Bakes, located at 12 Bucklersbury in Hitchin, officially shut on Saturday, July 26, a closure that has come as a shock to many locals.
Known for its delicious cakes, unique bakes, and excellent coffee, the shop had become a cherished part of the town’s high street.The owners announced the news in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing that it was with “heavy hearts” they made the decision to close after “nearly five wonderful years.” The reason, they explained, was the mounting pressure of “rising costs and the changing pace of the high street,” which had made things “increasingly tough behind the scenes.”
To mark their final day, Neighbourhood Bakes held a farewell street party, drawing many loyal customers who came to say goodbye.
Over the years, the shop had become known for its creative menu of bakes, including cakes of all kinds, uniquely flavoured brownies, such as bacon, maple and pecan, Guinness, and mulled wine, as well as blondies, cookies, and custom-made celebration and wedding cakes. Vegan and gluten-free options were also always available.
The owners announced the news on social media in a post that reads: “We’ve done our best to keep Neighbourhood accessible, resisting price hikes and trying to make our cakes feel within reach.
“But like so many small independents, the challenges of rising costs and the changing pace of the high street have made things increasingly tough behind the scenes. So, for now, it’s time to take a break. These buns are burnt out, and the ovens are going off.”
Customers expressed their sadness at the news, leaving messages of support, appreciation, and farewell in the comments. Alexis Hague commented on Facebook: Oh no, I’m really sorry to hear this, yours are the best cakes I’ve ever eaten”
Neil Weager also said: “Oh that’s terrible news. You have long been my favourite shop in Hitchin and every time I’ve been in it was a warm and friendly experience. It really is such a special spot and will be sorely missed. The very best of luck for whatever comes next. “
In their latest social media post, accompanied by a photo of Brittan, the shop’s longtime baker, the caption reads: “This is Bittan. She’s been baking the buns since the very first day we opened the shop doors and she hasn’t stopped since.
“We’ve been so lucky to have her. Thank you, Bittan, for every early morning, every beautifully golden bake, and all the quiet magic you bring to the kitchen every morning.”
Neighbourhood Bakes first opened as a permanent shop in 2021, after operating as a pop-up for six years. Founded by self-taught baker Helena, the business began with regular spots at local food markets and a thriving home delivery service across Hertfordshire, especially during the first COVID-19 lockdown.
In 2023, Helena joined forces with Emily, and the two became co-owners of the shop. In May of this year, the team shared on social media that Emily hadn’t been working in the shop for a while after being diagnosed with Stage 3 cancer. Despite undergoing intensive treatment, she’s been raising money for Cancer Research UK by taking on a skipping challenge, completing 100 skips a day during her recovery.
