Jailhouse Cafe

Nestled within the striking grounds of HMP The Verne on the picturesque Isle of Portland, the Jailhouse Cafe offers a uniquely welcoming retreat that combines hearty British café classics with inspiring sea views and a remarkable sense of community. This charming café not only serves up comfort food but also supports a meaningful cause, making every visit feel both rewarding and indulgent.

The menu at Jailhouse Cafe is a joyful celebration of traditional flavors, thoughtfully crafted to satisfy all appetite levels. Start your day with a warming Gov'nor's Breakfast or a delicate Victoria Sponge, complemented perfectly by their rich, velvety Hot Chocolate or a frothy 1 Shot Cappuccino. For those seeking lighter fare, options like Scrambled Egg on Toast or the Mushrooms and Egg Sandwich offer simplicity without compromising on taste. The café also shines with hearty lunches such as the Ploughman’s Lunch and the beautifully cooked Fish and Chips, as praised by visitors who can't help but return for the comforting plates and superb homemade touches like their Steak and Veg Pie or Homemade Scotch Eggs Salad and Chips.

Every dish bursts with honest, quality ingredients that create a satisfying harmony of flavors. The much-loved Bacon and Brie Panini and the fresh Tuna Mayonnaise and Onion Panini bring cozy warmth, while classics like Tea Cake and Tea alongside decadent snacks such as Cheesy Chips and Cornish Pasty provide the perfect treat throughout the day.

What truly elevates the Jailhouse Cafe is its atmosphere—warm, inviting, and enriched by stunning panoramic views of the sea and Portland’s dramatic coastline. Customers frequently highlight the friendly and attentive service, which complements the relaxed dining spaces, whether indoors or alfresco under the open sky. The café’s vibrant yet calming ambiance creates a perfect setting not only for a peaceful breakfast or lunch but also for family outings, with thoughtfully priced kids’ meals ensuring younger visitors are equally well catered for.

Beyond the food, visitors appreciate the café’s genuine commitment to community and quality. As one satisfied guest, Natalie Clifford, puts it, the cafe offers "good honest food, some great gift bits too," alongside quick and tasty meals that pair beautifully with "the beautiful views." Others, including Carol Tassell and Stephanie Ball, echo praise for both the value and the consistently excellent food and service, often mentioning the pleasure of dining outdoors under favorable weather.

Whether you’re local or visiting the Isle of Portland, the Jailhouse Cafe is much more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s an uplifting experience where every plate tells a story of care, quality, and connection. For those who appreciate good food served with heart, against a backdrop of stunning scenery, this café is an undisputed gem well worth discovering.

Contact Details:
The Jailhouse Cafe HMP The Verne, Portland DT5 1EQ, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 1305 825186