Who we are

Kindling was inspired by a trip around Canada in a campervan in the summer of 2005. After long days canoeing on the lakes of Vancouver Island, Kindling founder Rod Bond would stoke up the campfire and set a small coffee pot on top of the flames for a super fresh brew. Life on the edge the lake was simple… and the coffee tasted good.

In the neighbourhood cafes of Canada, Rod found that, while counter top machines brewed the coffee, there was still a feeling of freshness and Great Outdoors-style simplicity. Many of the coffee shops were individually owned and were a far cry from the ubiquitous coffee chains churning out buckets of so-so frothy coffee. The boss was usually behind the counter grinding beans and brainstorming crossword clues with a customer. These were people who didn't need a fancy deli counter with six types of olives to prove they were serious about food. They loved making great coffee and simple sandwiches.

Back home, Rod hastened his decision to quit London (he'd run an award-winning restaurant and bar for 11 years) and relocate to Bath. Widcombe, a bustling High Street just a stone's throw from Bath Spa station, proved to be the perfect location for the first store. Kindling opened on Bath Half Marathon Weekend in March 2006 and had a queue of spectators winding out the door and down the street.

The Chelsea Road Store (or K2 as it known by the staff and regulars) opened in June 2007 and has already gained a loyal following.

There are plans to open another store soon so… watch this space!