New Family-Centric Café Launches in Exeter

Pip Williams launches Nook in Topsham, Exeter

Former primary school teacher, Pip Williams, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of Nook, a family-orientated café nestled within Topsham’s much loved independent kids’ toy shop, Squid & the Kid.

Nook seamlessly integrates with the vibrant atmosphere of Squid & the Kid, creating a unique destination to shop, refuel with coffee and lunch, and play all in one place. 

More than just a café, Nook is a cosy space where people of all ages can enjoy quality time within a welcoming environment. The interiors have been designed to allow full visibility so carers can keep check on little ones as they explore the role play area, reading nook and playhouse. Built by Elliot Hill, the thought-out space has details such as high shelves to place hot coffee out of the way of busy kids.

The simple menu caters for all ages, from weaning plates to simple snacks, sandwiches and cakes. There’s a range of hot and cold drinks, including coffee from South West roastery, Sunday. 

Pip draws on her experience as a primary school teacher and subsequent private tutoring within Squid & the Kid to create a nurturing space geared towards babies, toddlers and young children. She says, “Opening Nook is a dream come true. I wanted to create an inclusive place for people to relax while kids let off steam - with no booking necessary. The café is aimed at families, but anyone can enjoy the space – people without kids too.

“As a parent myself, I understand the isolation that can come with raising a toddler. Speaking with other parents fuelled my passion to create a welcoming space where carers can come together, feel at home and hopefully make connections with likeminded people. By supporting each other, we can build a stronger, more resilient community. As the café evolves, we’ll look forward to hosting live music such as amazing Poco Drom, and parent groups too. The café will remain open during these pop-ups.

“Nook embraces Squid’s holistic approach to community engagement and actively seeks collaborations with local artisans, particularly those owned by women, to showcase their products and creations.”

Having launched three years ago, Squid & the Kid is a kids toy and lifestyle shop with a carefully curated range of products that spark joy. Within Squid & the Kid, Scamps Vintage has just launched a preloved clothing rail for children.

Run by Alice Garrad and Alex Stenning, Squid & the Kid welcomes Nook into the heart of their business. Alice says, “Nook brings a new dimension to our shop, providing families with a space to gather, rest, and power up. We’ve had the pleasure of hosting Pip’s tutorial sessions here at Squid and we’re thrilled that our businesses will now operate side by side.”

Alex continued, “Pip’s commitment to artisanal suppliers and learning through play aligns perfectly with our own values. Together, we hope to create a warm and inviting haven for families in Topsham. Welcome to the adventure, Nook!”

Nook is located within Squid & the Kid at 62 Fore Street, Topsham, Exeter, EX3 0HL, open Monday to Friday, 9am – 4pm. Follow the adventures on Instagram: @Nook_Devon www.nookdevon.com / www.squidandthekid.com.