Fortitude Bakehouse in Bloomsbury, London WC1, has been on my list of must-visit bakeries for a while. Finally, on Saturday, I made it there. The place was already bustling, with a line stretching out the door by the time I arrived and only growing longer when I left. Standing in line, I hoped the experience would live up to the buzz. With limited online information and a crowd to peer over, the choice had to be made quickly once I reached the counter. But no matter what you pick here, you can guarantee it will be delightful. Fortitude Bakehouse is well worth the detour if you’re searching for the best London bakeries in the Russell Square area.
“Be prepared to queue to get your sweet and savoury delights at Fortitude Bakehouse,” Homegirl London.
Fortitude Bakehouse Menu
I started with the feta and spinach hand pie. Wrapped in golden, flaky pastry with feta and spinach, this was a standout for vegetarian choices priced at £4.45. The sprinkle of sesame seeds on top added just the right crunch. Other tempting savoury items included a cheddar and olive tapenade straw, a Berber omelette, a lamb merguez roll, and harissa chicken with slaw served in a bouncy brioche bun.
The cakes and pastries were the real showstoppers. I tried the chocolate, almond and pistachio bostock, which I loved. It’s a French pastry similar to French toast but with an almond croissant-like flavour. Priced at £4.95, I thought it was reasonable considering the large size. I also had my eye on a honey cream and apricot jam scone, though I decided to save that for next time.
Other highlights included a raspberry morning bun, a charming orange and almond mini bun, a coconut and almond bite, a cinnamon sticky bun, and an almond croissant. Note that beignets (a famous New Orleans pastry that is deep-fried dough covered in powdered sugar) are typically available from 11 am until they sell out. On Saturday, there was an announcement about the cream-filled doughnuts being available at 11 am, so time your visit if these are on your wish list.
Pair your pastry with a drink from their selection, featuring everything from batch-brewed coffee and lattes to more exotic teas like Tangier tea, Marrakesh Blue, and Tulsi Spice. There’s also a homemade lemonade for a refreshing option.
Watch My Fortitude Bakehouse Video
Helpful Information About Fortitude Bakehouse Bloomsbury
For more details, check the Fortitude Bakery website which is sparse, so visiting is the only way to experience all the bakery offers. You’ll find it tucked away at 35 Colonnade, Bloomsbury, London WC1N, just behind Russell Square Station, along a charming, cobbled street near the Horse Hospital Museum and not far from The Brunswick Centre. They’re open Monday to Friday from 7.30 am to 3 pm and on weekends from 8.30 am to 2.30 pm.
You might spot another building further down, which serves as their baking space. There is no inside seating, but you’ll find a few benches outside. Keep an eye out for the pigeons because they are persistent!
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Ten Things To Do In Bloomsbury
Ten Reasons To Visit The Brunswick Centre
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about eateries where I had a good experience. I recommend you do further research as standards fluctuate, as do opinions. Please check if the establishment is still in business and the opening times before you go. If you discover this restaurant has closed, contact me to remove it from my blog.
