Big Wigs Bakery's town-centre branch is on Exeter Road, a step from the Square and a few minutes on foot from the Lower Gardens and the seafront, which makes it a convenient place for a coffee and a pastry before or after a stroll along the front.
What's on the counter
A serious line-up of doughnuts anchors the counter, with raspberry jam, custard, chocolate and changing specials among them, joined by cinnamon buns, fresh bread and cakes baked daily. On the savoury side, lunch brings a well-reviewed beef brisket roll and other bakes, with proper coffee to go with them. Vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free options are a real part of the range too, although the kitchen is not a dedicated allergen-free space, so mention any allergy to staff.
Part of a small local chain
Several shops trade under the Big Wigs name, and this is one of them. The bakery started out in Tuckton and has since expanded to Westbourne, Highcliffe and this town-centre site on Exeter Road; each is a separate outlet of one independent, family-run business, not a national chain.
Good to know
This is a compact, counter-service shop rather than a sit-down restaurant, set up for takeaway coffee and bakes or a quick lunch. Reported opening runs from about 8am until mid-afternoon, with a shorter day on Sunday, but if timing matters check with the shop directly, since bakery hours change with stock and season.
Pick up something to eat here and then explore more of the town centre with our things to do guide, or find further cafés and restaurants in our food & drink guide.