Running from October 14 to 20, UK Coffee Week is a celebration of roasters and shops across the nation.

To mark the occasion, we've put together a list of the seven best coffee shops in St Albans and Harpenden - this was hard.

1. Fade To Black

A fan-favourite, Fade To Black has become part of the furniture at the Quadrant in St Albans. 

Doubling as a late-night wine bar with quizzes and live music, the coffee shop has hosted many locals and stars - including ITV film crews.

 

Their website reads: "A specialist Coffee Bar, serving London roasted espresso blends, alongside locally made cakes and cool event.

"With an enthusiastic local following and a casual yet stylish setting, whether you're catching up with friends, unwinding after work, or simply chilling out, discover the charm of Fade to Black at either location."

The coffee connoisseurs opened a second location at Trestle Arts Base in Highfield in April.

2. The Yard

Known for pizza by night, by day, the Harpenden-based shop focuses its trade in coffee and roasting. 

With weekly specials - this week being Nutella cookies - the Yard offers a range of heartwarming food for all to enjoy.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by @theyardcoffeeandbakes

The underrated coffee shop offers a perfect spot for dog-walkers during those crisp autumn mornings.

3. Black Sheep Coffee

An American chain sits at the heart of St Peters Street, St Albans serving the finest beans.

Black Sheep Coffee on St Peter Street.Black Sheep Coffee on St Peter Street. (Image: Google Maps) If you love a matcha like me you will not find a better one in the area.

The large unit offers a great space to work remotely while you tuck into a pastry or sip on a fantastic blend.

4. Nkora

If you want yourself a strong coffee, then Nkora could be the place for you.

You can get all the coffee classics but we would recommend their Costa Rica blend, which has a bold, rich and intense flavour we know you'll love.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Nkora (@nkoracoffee)

And if you want a bite to eat, Nkora offers up some delicious and hearty sandwiches and sweat treats that really hit the taste buds.

The coffee shop has other locations dotted around London and Herts.

5. The Oval Café

A specialty coffee shop on the grounds of YWAM Harpenden is nestled in the countryside surrounded by fantastic scenery like the Bluebell Wood.

The Oval supports volunteers and baristas while making money for charity through its coffee beans and live events.

Offering cheap drinks and quick bites, the spot has swiftly become bustling hub for the surrounding community.

6. Brewhouse Coffee

In Wheathamsptead lies a fun family-run coffee shop which specialises in a sweet treat.

From Kinder Bueno brownies to Dutch almond meringues, Brewhouse has all bases covered to satisfy you sweet tooth.

It's coffee is not bad either and is accompanied by charming and welcoming service for all customers.

7. Eight Ounce

A hidden gem located inside the Purple Menswear unit on Harpenden High Street is a tiny coffee shop which packs a big punch.

With the self-proclaimed "best coffee in town" Eight Ounce hosts a cosy interior space with a quaint garden area.

Foodies can enjoy fresh bagels and cakes to accompany a locally-brewed coffee.