THE BEGINNINGS OF THE COFFEE MAP
One very cold day in December last year, I was sat outside one of our favourite post-ride coffee shops with friends talking about … coffee! We were chatting about all the excellent independent coffee shops we ride to, walk to and explore in and around Norwich and Norfolk and how each place has its own personality, community and atmosphere.
There have been a couple of local independent coffee spots who have genuinely saved me during some very dark and difficult periods following experiences in my front-line career. They provided more than coffee; they gave me a safe, warm, welcoming space, a friendly face, and somewhere I felt comfortable simply existing on difficult days.
More importantly, they gave me a sense of community and somewhere to feel part of something bigger when I needed it most.
Friends and colleagues had often suggested I should start blogging about the places I visit because I love good coffee, good food, and recommending places to people. But I’ve never loved being on my phone and I wanted something more tangible, physical and *artistic* so…
During that chilly conversation I mused how it would be fun to have a physical trail map of independent coffee spots around the city and county; something people could actually hold in their hands and interact with to experience physically, rather than their day becoming “just another social media post”, to encourage people to slow down, and, get back to being present in this busy, hectic world we live in.
It could get people to explore new places, support local businesses, meet friends, spend time with family and get them off their phones together. They could go somewhere alone with a book and their coffee; and appreciate their time of being in this fine city all whilst enjoying their coffees and a treat (other drinks are available)!
And so, The Coffee Map was born.
I had a vision for the design, and there was only ever one artist in my mind: the wonderful Beverley Coraldean, who creates the most beautiful artwork, murals and prints. Thankfully she agreed! And from the very beginning Beverley could see my vision and she has illustrated the maps and iconic sights in the city perfectly.
As the idea grew, more interactive features on the map emerged naturally including:
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- Mindfulness – Beverley’s designs lend the map and illustrations to being coloured in!
- Confidence – going solo? Use the map to explore new places, and tick them all off!
- Family planner – date boxes provide a diary, a planning tool, and a tracker!
- Memories – revisit old favourites and rediscover forgotten haunts!
- Educational – facts about Norwich and Norfolk are dotted around the comments boxes
- Explorative – walk, cycle, skate or run around the city and the county and ensure to take a well deserved rest and treat before, during or after at an independent coffee stop!
- Community – complete the map solo and find new friends; take your dog and friends, or your chosen families in the wellbeing spaces, fitness communities and arts groups!
Giving back was also incredibly important to me from the beginning, which is why 5% of every map sale is donated to The Royal British Legion in support of veterans and their families.
It was equally important for the map to be produced sustainably and locally. The maps are printed locally in East Anglia using 100% vegetable-based inks, on recycled paper, at a carbon neutral site powered entirely by renewable energy.
The Coffee Map really is ‘More Than a Map’.
It’s a love letter to independent businesses, community, exploration, wellbeing, and the wonderful people and places that make Norwich and Norfolk so special.
Enjoy and Explore with yours!
Much love,
Sarah x
Creator & Director of The Coffee Map