Our first Great Bedfordian of 2025 is Lisa Course, the owner of the iconic Papillon cafe on Castle Road.
After a 30-year career in hairdressing and raising three children, Lisa decided for a complete career change and opened a coffee shop.
“The name comes from being my nickname when I was training to be a hairdresser,” said Lisa. “I then thought I had completed the caterpillar stage of life and found my wings to fly on my own.
“Papillon is the most beautiful space where you can feel comfortable on your own or with a group and it’s the hub of the community. We bake everything ourselves on-site & have very talented cooks and bakers.”
To add to her Great Bedfordian accolade, Lisa recently won gold in the SME National Business Awards business leader category. Congratulations!
Over to you, Lisa…
Name: Lisa Course
Occupation: Coffee Shop Owner
Born here or blow in? Born and bred here, in fact I was born in Queens Drive.
Best breakfast? Best breakfast has to got to be at Papillon Coffee House.
Best boozer? We don’t go to the pub too much but when we do we love to go to the Gordon Arms. It’s lovely to pop in there after work or before we go to Bedford Blues!
Best coffee or cuppa? My favourite coffee is definitely at ours and it has to be a flat white or iced Americano whizzed with a dash of oat milk! Especially Wooden Hills Christmas Roast
Best gig? Oh my gosh, the best gig I’ve seen in Bedford has got to be Simply Red in the Park. Anyone who knows me knows I’m obsessed! I felt like I was the only one there!
Ever read the Pilgrim’s Progress? I read a little of The Pilgrims Progress when I was at school. Can’t say I remember too much though.
Ever eaten a Bedfordshire Clanger? My mum used to make the most amazing Bedfordshire Clanger. We used to love it.
An off-the-beaten-track gem that everyone should know about? When I’m not making a Sunday roast we love to go to The Swan at Salford. The food is lovely and so welcoming.
Best Bedfordian? In my eyes the best Bedfordian is the husband, Mr Course. He has supported me through all my decisions no matter how impulsive.
Three worlds that best sum up Bedford? Bedford is diverse, multi-cultural and beautiful
