The operators of four cherished cafés on North London's green spaces are being replaced, despite a wave of public backing and celebrity support, after the City of London Corporation awarded the leases to the expanding Daisy Green group.
Community Backlash Over "Chain" Decision
The decision affects the Parliament Hill Café, Parliament Hill Lido, Golders Hill Park, and Queen's Park sites. A fifth café, in Highgate Wood, remains under discussion. The move concludes a remarketing process launched earlier this year by the Corporation, which manages spaces like Hampstead Heath as a registered charity.
Existing operators and a vigorous campaign group had fought to stay, garnering support from locals and figures including Benedict Cumberbatch, James McAvoy, and MP Tulip Siddiq. Alberto D'Auria, who started running the Parliament Hill Café around 45 years ago, had previously expressed confidence about retaining the lease due to this overwhelming support.
Patrick Matthews, Director of Hoxton Beach which runs several of the cafés, said the Corporation's choice was "surprising" given the clear local sentiment against a chain. A spokesperson for the Real Cafés Campaign labelled the outcome a cause of "much sadness, disappointment and anger".
Corporation Defends Process and Choice of Operator
The City of London Corporation stated the process aimed to ensure a "high-quality visitor experience" for the future. It received 30 bids, which were reviewed with consultant support. Alderman Gregory Jones KC, Chair of the relevant committee, said Daisy Green demonstrated the strongest blend of "quality, sustainability, affordability, and community value."
The Corporation insists Daisy Green is an independent London-based business, not a national or multinational chain, and will bring energy, creativity, and investment. The new operator plans upgrades, seasonal menus, and discounts for older residents.
However, critics argue the process lacked transparency. Doug Crawford of the campaign group claimed there was "no transparency at all about the process and no attempt to engage with the wider community." The Real Cafés Campaign also noted the "unnecessary stress" caused by delays in communication.
Legacy and Future of the Beloved Sites
The decision echoes a 2016 case where another chain, Benugo, was awarded the contract before it was withdrawn. Campaigners now question the Corporation's stewardship, with the Real Cafés Campaign asking if it can "really be trusted to act in our best interests."
Prue Freeman, Co-Founder of Daisy Green, said the business was "delighted" to be selected and promised to maintain the cafés as "welcoming spaces" with locally sourced food. Meanwhile, the existing operators, who have built these sites into local institutions over years, face an uncertain future as the community mourns the loss of a longstanding independent character on the Heath.
