A HIDDEN café in Somerset has been announced as a finalist in the Café/Tearoom of the Year category at the Somerset Tourism Awards.

The awards cover Bath, Bristol, and Somerset, and The Loft Café in Wells has been announced as one of three finalists in the category.

Being a frequent visitor to the city of Wells, I'd noticed the signs for The Loft but never before ventured inside.

It would be easy to miss however, as the café itself is located through a stone archway just to the right hand side of Wells Cathedral.Somerset County Gazette: The café itself is hidden away and easy to miss.The café itself is hidden away and easy to miss. (Image: NQ Staff)

Inside, the café sits up a small flight of stairs, hence its name - The Loft.

Upon entering, I was greeted with a stunning display of handmade sweet treats, including cakes, flapjacks, brownies, and more.

There was also a fridge selling locally-made Hullaballoos Lemonade, as well as several light-lunch/snack options on the menu such as soup and sandwiches.Somerset County Gazette: Some delicious looking sweet treats were on offer.Some delicious looking sweet treats were on offer. (Image: NQ Staff)

I opted for a humble flapjack and an oat milk cappuccino before taking a seat and taking in the calming vibes of the café.

The interior of The Loft is beautifully decorated - the sloping triangular roof provides a spacious yet cosy atmosphere, paired with knick-knack from bunting and house plants to china cabinets and wall murals.

Several painted wooden chairs and tables of all colours add to the welcoming feel of the café, and breakfast-bar style high tables run along both exterior walls, which look out onto a stunning view of the Wells skyline on one side, and the Bishop's Palace on the other.Somerset County Gazette: The Loft's interior is a lovely place to sit and enjoy a coffee.The Loft's interior is a lovely place to sit and enjoy a coffee. (Image: NQ Staff)

Both the coffee and the flapjack were delicious, especially the coffee, which actually exceeded my already heightened expectations.

The staff were incredibly friendly and personable, going above and beyond to make every customer feel as relaxed and welcome as I did.

The Loft café at Wells Cathedral is a hidden gem in the quaint and historic city of Wells - a must-visit whether you're a local or a tourist.

In my opinion, you haven't experienced the true atmosphere of Wells until you've enjoyed a coffee and a cake at The Loft.