I've never seen the appeal of this sort of coffee shop. Any ambiance is always drowned out by the unbearable noise of the coffee machines, and in my experience, the staff are rude and the food and drink itself is mediocre.
This is especially true of Costa in Kendal. The ill-designed room means tables are few and cramped, and rarely as clean as you would expect. I have often found the staff to be impatient, and frequently have to clear my own table due to their indifference. You may ask why I have been more than once, and this is because my mother is a fan. Perhaps as a coffee hater I am not the right person to review such a place. Perhaps the drinks aren't outrageously overpriced as I suspect, and the quality of the beans makes up for the otherwise unpleasant experience. Perhaps. But I doubt it.
I have awarded two stars because I must admit that I like their desserts. But do yourself a favour and get one to take away. A nearby bench is likely to be more peaceful and relaxing than this place, and you'll save yourself 30p an item by avoiding it. read more