Ashburton Repair Cafe

What we do

Reduce landfill. Save money. Build community.

A repair cafe is exactly what the name suggests: you bring broken items from home — clothes, tools, electrical items — and our volunteers do their best to fix them for free. While your item is being repaired, you can stay and enjoy tea, coffee or cake.

We don't charge. We ask for the cost of any parts, and a donation for our time. Or just come along with nothing to repair — everyone is welcome.

Find out more

Volunteer-led

Founded in 2018 by Ashburton Climate Emergency members using the Dutch repair cafe model. Now 27+ volunteers strong.

Free to use

There is no charge. We ask for the cost of any parts and a donation for our time. We're part of a global network of over 2,500 repair cafes.

Good for the planet

Repairing saves money, materials, energy and reduces CO₂. We're also part of Devon CAG, supporting local communities.

Ready to visit?

Please help us by booking your item in advance

It only takes a couple of minutes and helps our volunteers prepare for the session.

Book items in

As seen on BBC

Watch the BBC film about us

A note from our Chair

Nigel Ward

"A repair cafe is exactly what the name suggests: you bring broken items from home such as clothes, tools and electrical items. Whilst our volunteers repair the item, you can stay and enjoy tea, coffee or cake — or leave the item with us. Or just come to the cafe with nothing to repair!"

We don't charge. We ask for the cost of any parts, and a donation for our time.

About us

See us in action

Watch our film

The case for repair

Why repair?

We throw away too much — even things with almost nothing wrong. Often these items go to landfill, wasting precious raw materials and energy. Repairing saves money, materials, energy and reduces CO₂.

Save from landfill

Reduce CO₂

Save precious metals

Save manufacturing energy

Join a community

Reviews

What our visitors say

"We have been to the repair café a few times and love its buzzy, purposeful and friendly atmosphere. We have been so impressed by the results, tools and scissors sharpened and help with finding the best and most cost effective way of fixing a food processor. I would recommend anyone to take their broken or damaged articles along to see what can be done with them."

— Judy

"I have found the Repair Cafe exceptionally useful. Very pleasant atmosphere and splendid expertise. I shall carry on using it!"

— John B

"The repair cafe has been invaluable to me! New handles have been beautifully crafted on to my pressure cooker pot. My grandchildren's wooden train had a missing part which was beautifully recrafted. For me the repair cafe has been a treasure trove of skills and kindness within this welcoming community of Ashburton."

— Elizabeth