In 2024 Ben and Clare began serving coffee in Hinksey Park from the much-loved Jericho Coffee Traders’ coffee van.

What started as a low-key speciality coffee offering to locals has led to two bricks-and-mortar sites.

Ben and Clare are from Australia originally and the name, Kelpie, is a nod to home. Kelpies are popular sheep dogs in Australia. They’re lovable rogues, hard working, and friendly, and so felt like the perfect spirit animal for the brand.

First came the cafe at the Castle Mound, which was previously run by JCT (who also happen to be Kelpie’s main coffee supplier). It’s a light, airy, colourful corner nestled in Oxford’s Castle Quarter.

They have a second shop due to open on Abingdon Road in April of this year.