Our Story
Just a five-minute drive from the city centre, we also have a nursery and soft play on site – so that the little ones can learn and play while you enjoy a bite to eat with a friend. Featuring a modern, spacious indoor café, we also offer outdoor seating so that you can enjoy the fresh air with your coffee.
You’ll find something for everyone on our tasty yet affordable menu – which not only includes breakfast, lunch and a children’s menu, but also a range of delicious gluten free and vegan options. If it’s just a coffee and cake you fancy, we have a superb range of fresh traybakes and top-quality coffee available throughout the day.
Who’s ‘Williams’?
Our café is named after the amazing George Williams; founder of YMCA, which now stands as the oldest and largest youth charity in the world. On 6 June 1844, 22 year-old draper George Williams joined 11 friends to organise the first Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), a refuge of Bible study and prayer for young men seeking escape from the hazards of life on the streets of London.
Within a year of launching, the YMCA and its founders began addressing other concerns of young men working in cities across the UK. Public lectures and educational classes were developed, including reading rooms and refreshment areas to help young men adjust to urban life. Soon after, the YMCA expanded beyond London and opened branches in northern cities – such as Manchester and Leeds. By 1951, the YMCA became a global movement, establishing in USA and Canada.
Today, YMCA has grown to serve more than 65 million people in 120 countries regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background.
We are extremely proud to be a part of the YMCA family, and therefore named our new café after our founder to show our appreciation!
Opening times
Monday – Friday 9.30am – 3.30pm
Saturday & Sunday 10am – 3.30pm
Last food orders 3pm every day
