Shildon, a town in County Durham, is now home to a unique and exclusive coffee experience, thanks to the arrival of coffee beans grown near the majestic Mount Everest. Happy Barista, a local coffee roastery, has introduced these “one of a kind” coffee beans to the UK, making Shildon the sole destination in the country where these beans are available for sale and roasting.

The journey of these exceptional coffee beans from Solukhumbu, Nepal, to Shildon is a result of a sustainable initiative spearheaded by The Glacier Trust, led by Mark Holmes. With the adverse effects of climate change impacting traditional Nepalese crops, coffee farming has emerged as a thriving alternative in the region. Through direct collaboration with farmers and a commitment to ethical sourcing practices, Happy Barista has secured an exclusive supply of these premium beans, boasting a remarkable grade of 83/100, officially classified as specialty coffee.

Tom Bolland and Dana Boudare, the co-owners of Happy Barista, have been instrumental in bringing this extraordinary coffee to the UK. Their passion for coffee and dedication to raising the standards of coffee in the country have led them to this groundbreaking collaboration. By ensuring that the proceeds from this venture benefit Nepalese farming communities, the partnership between Happy Barista and The Glacier Trust not only offers a unique coffee experience but also supports sustainable practices in coffee production.

For coffee aficionados and conscientious consumers alike, the availability of coffee beans grown near Mount Everest presents a rare opportunity to savor a cup of coffee that embodies a blend of exceptional quality and ethical sourcing. This initiative not only enriches the coffee culture in Shildon but also highlights the significance of sustainable practices in the global coffee industry. A cup of coffee brewed from beans that have journeyed from the foothills of Mount Everest to the heart of County Durham is not just a beverage but a testament to the artistry and sustainability behind every sip.