SOMETIMES there is nothing quite like a freshly baked treat to warm your heart and fill your tummy.

Although not overrun with them, Colchester does benefit from a handful of top bakeries which pride themselves on serving only the most delectable of products. 

We asked Gazette readers to name some of their favourite bakeries in and around Colchester - here is what they had to say.

The Blackberry Bakery, Colchester

One bakery which was mentioned dozens of times by the city's baked goods lovers was The Blackberry Bakery, in Blackberry Road.

A spokesman for the bakery said: "Our vision for innovation is to take the idea of the neighbourhood bakery to the next level, allowing every customer to enjoy freshly baked, high-quality, and affordable bread.

"Come in and taste some real bread, and if gluten intolerant try our sourdoughs or GI loaves."

One happy customer said: "I have been into the bakery numerous times for food and it never fails to impress! The bakery is clean the staff are friendly and efficient.

"It is an overall lovely place to eat. I highly recommend this place to anyone."

Gazette: Breadmaker - Blackberry BakeryBreadmaker - Blackberry Bakery (Image: Google)

For more information go to blackberrybakeryltd.business.site.

Twisted Treats, Colchester

Promising to be a safe place for neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ people and people who feel like they don't belong, the new bakery Twisted Treats, in St Botolph's Street, is fast-becoming a popular spot.

Jo Lucking, the owner of Twisted Treats, said: "I believe that great food feeds your soul and I hope that my treats can spread happiness and joy to you all."

A chuffed customer said: "They make the best sweet treats in Colchester. I absolutely love Twisted Treats! Amazing cakes, such a big selection of sweet treats and now savoury too.

"It's such a great place to go get coffee and cake, my friend and I love it. Highly recommend the cookie pies."

Gazette: Proud - Workers at Twisted Treats Left to right: Liam Burgess, April Alise, Jo LuckingProud - Workers at Twisted Treats Left to right: Liam Burgess, April Alise, Jo Lucking (Image: Public)

For more information go to twistedtreatsonline.co.uk.

Norwegian Bakers, Wivenhoe

As a family-run bakery with more than 20 years of experience, it's no wonder Norwegian Bakers, in Brook Street, was mentioned profusely by Gazette readers.

A spokesman for the business said: "We specialise in authentic Norwegian baking. Jessika is the Master Baker, with years of experience building on her five years of training under the tutelage of a traditional craft baker in Alesund, Norway."

One pleased customer said: "I love visiting this bakery - it is a very happy place run by Richard and Jessica and their excellent staff.

"Their products, savoury and sweet, are tasty and filling, and the pizzas and cream buns are to die for. As a vegan, I feel fortunate to have them close by."

For more information go to norwegianbakers.com.