The days of cardboard-flavoured gluten-free bread are behind us. London's gluten-free bakery scene has exploded into something genuinely exciting, with dedicated bakeries producing croissants, doughnuts, sourdough and pastries that taste exactly as good as their gluten-full counterparts. Here's where to find the best.
Bakes at Free From Bakehouse.
The Best Gluten-Free Bakeries In London
Beyond Bread - Islington & Victoria
Beyond Bread is arguably London's most beloved dedicated gluten-free bakery and cafe. Founded by coeliac bakers, everything on site is 100% gluten-free, from the sourdough and bagels to the cakes, pastries and sandwiches. The Victoria branch added a second home for what has become a genuine institution. The banana bread alone makes the journey worth it.
Free From Bakehouse - Tottenham
A dedicated allergen-free bakery in Tottenham producing gluten-free sourdough, focaccia, cakes and pastries, all in a dedicated kitchen with no cross-contamination risk. Beloved by the local community and increasingly sought out by food lovers across north London.
Violet Cakes - Hackney
Violet's gluten-free cakes are made with the same care and artistry as everything else the Hackney bakery produces. Flower-adorned layer cakes and seasonal bakes that taste like real celebration cakes, not an afterthought. Limited seasonal availability happens here because of their immense popularity, so I'd recommend you check before you travel.
Baked By Steph - Brixton
South London's favourite gluten-free bakery, Baked By Steph produces brilliant gluten-free bakes in a dedicated space in Brixton. The birthday cakes and brownies in particular have a devoted following. Pre-ordering is recommended.
Image: Violet - gluten-free bakery in London.
What To Look For In A Gluten-Free Bakery In London
For coeliacs (as opposed to those choosing to reduce gluten), the difference between a dedicated gluten-free kitchen and a mixed kitchen is important. Cross-contamination can cause a reaction even from trace amounts of gluten. When in doubt, we recommend you ask specifically whether the bakery is fully dedicated GF or operates a mixed kitchen.
- Fully dedicated: Beyond Bread, Free From Bakehouse, Baked By Steph
FAQs
Are there fully dedicated gluten-free bakeries in London?
Yes - Beyond Bread (Islington and Victoria) and Free From Bakehouse (Tottenham) are fully dedicated to being gluten-free with no cross-contamination risk.
Do gluten-free London bakeries do celebration cakes?
Violet Cakes, Baked By Steph and Beyond Bread all do cakes for birthdays and events, but we recommend you pre-order to avoid disappointment.
