It’s another soggy day – cold, wet and rainy outside. But inside I’m taking great comfort sinking into the deep sofas at Offshore , snuggling into their warmth.
It’s cosy and welcoming with an eclectic mix of mis-matched sofas and chairs. It’s kind of like hanging out in your front room but never having to tidy up the mess.
Admittedly, I don’t have someone to make me Chai and bring me toasted bagels at home, but at £5.25 for both I can afford to splurge for the service.
Idle away hours in idyllic surroundings
If you’re looking to relax, Offshore is the place to idle away the hours. Their gigantic windows out onto Gibson Street are great for people watching. Open every day until 9pm, in the evening you can bring your own bottle for £2.50 corkage. Not bad at all. Paninis, toasties, soup and sandwiches and various vegetarian options are complimented by a range of teas, coffees and the obligatory homemade cakes and biscuits.
The woman sitting opposite me is enjoying an enticing looking drink while she cuddles up to her man. Offshore’s that sort of place; everyone unwinds a little bit more when they walk through the door.
Coffee and culture
Offshore isn’t just about cuddling and coffee – it has its own culture to offer too.
Life Drawing classes happen downstairs in the gallery space on Thursdays 7-9pm; £10 a pop and basic materials are provided. There are also exhibitions downstairs in the gallery – worth a look.
So why not escape the rain and swing by Gibson Street for a wee relax, spot of culture and a cup of tea all in one place. Getting there is easy; it’s leaving that’s the hard part.
-B