The Hornbeam Centre is a hub, building community since 1994
Our goal is an active, engaged, inclusive and environmentally sustainable Waltham Forest where people are empowered and supported to uplift each other through creative and collaborative community action. We work towards these goals with the following tools -
Food , Space, Knowledge & Skills
Cafe Space Schedule - Spring 2025
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Join us for wellbeing, connection and finding joy through food. Make and taste simple recipes, learn how to cook, shop and eat in ways that are good for you, the planet and your pocket. Referral only. Click here for more.
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The cafe space is transformed into a budget friendly pantry, where for a few pounds, shoppers can access up to £20 worth of groceries. Click here for more information.
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Join us in the cafe from 10am to help chop veg, chat and enjoy free hot drinks and snacks. Stay to enjoy a healthy hot lunch, served at 1pm.
There are often creative activities, and visiting services such as Social Prescribers, Vaccine Clinics and Digital Exclusion Support. -
1st, 3rd & 5th Wednesday of the month. Community Apothecary are in residence in the cafe space, processing and selling remedies, running workshops. Not every session is public, check their website for timetables and up to date offerings.
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The Gleaners are continuing to hold the friendly cosy space that is Thursday’s Community Living Room, a cold weather initiative led by Waltham Forest Council. Come and enjoy a free hot, healthy meal, read a book, get creative, and access visiting local services.
Our Instagram is the best place to find out about upcoming events
Have an event or project you’d like to run at The Hornbeam?
More than a building,
we are a network
We are proud to share our spaces and collaborate with a web of wonderful local organisations, both here at 458 Hoe Street, and out in the wider community, such as (and not limited to) -
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The Gleaners
The rad workers co-op who feed our bellies and souls through Community Meals, Catering, and also coordinating Thursdays Community Living Room.
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Organiclea
The OG organic growers co-op with an 12 acre farm up in Chingford, and an admin office in The Hornbeam. The WF Food Partnership is the most recent example of our long term collaboration.
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Community Apothecary
Transforming the cafe space (and attic) into a hub for herbal goodness - 1st, 3rd & 5th Wednesday of the month.
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The HEET Project
Bill busting, energy saving local heroes. In 2025, HEET & Hornbeam are working on two projects together; to train up local Energy Champions and address Digital Exclusion.
