A former antiques shop in Upton-upon-Severn has become a dessert parlour after its owner spent four months renovating to bring his vision to life.
Harbour Parlour, located on Old Street in the town centre, welcomed its first customers on Sunday, November 1, following an intensive renovation project led by owner Connor Sheppard.
The 26-year-old moved to the Upton area from Cheltenham with his partner in August and after walking past the empty space, decided what he wanted to do with it.
Working up to 12 hours a day, he spent four months refurbishing the premises ahead of the opening.
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Mr Sheppard said his passion for food began at an early age, inspired by both of his parents.
“My dad was a chef and my mum always loved cooking,” he said.
Having worked as a chef since the age of 16, Mr Sheppard said he has always preferred following his own path rather than pursuing a conventional career route.
“I’ve never really been one to follow guidelines or a clear route in life,” he said.
“I’ve always wanted to do what I enjoy.”
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That philosophy is reflected in Harbour Parlour’s menu, where almost everything is made from scratch on site.
Aside from a small selection of pre-packaged cakes available on the counter, Mr Sheppard prepares all of the shop’s desserts himself.
The cake counter was full to the brim on opening day (Image: Newsquest)
Customers can choose from homemade brownies, Liège waffles and a range of desserts, while even the hot chocolate is made using fresh milk rather than powdered mixes.
Mr Sheppard also prides himself on using homemade butter in his creations rather than spreads.
Despite the quality ingredients and labour-intensive approach, he is keen to keep prices affordable.
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The shop is offering a coffee and cake or muffin deal for £3.95, while its desserts are typically priced between £7.50 and £8.50.
He described the offer as a “loss leader” strategy.
“I’m not here to fleece anybody,” he said.
“I’m here to enjoy doing this and want to feel proud of it.”
Looking ahead, Mr Sheppard has ambitions to expand the menu beyond desserts.
Future plans include introducing New York-style Italian sandwiches alongside a variety of coffees.
For now, however, he is focused on settling into the community and building on the positive response the business has already received.
“We’ve had some really good reviews so far,” he said.
“We’re just going with the flow and seeing where it takes us.”
The opening adds another independent food business to Upton’s high street and offers residents and visitors a new destination for homemade desserts and sweet treats.
