A CONVERTED American-style bus and two caravans have been used to create a unique new coffee shop and cafe in Rayleigh. 

Boasting an outside seated area, children’s play area, and inside seating, The Bean Machine opened Eastwood Road this week, and is already proving a huge hit with families and residents. 

A group of four friends - Peter Jeffery, Robyn Tully, and husband and wife Daniel Carey and Catherine Carey - have joined forces to launch the businesses. 

The quirky business offers hot and cold coffees, milkshakes, snacks and soft drinks. 

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As well as the converted bus, there are two caravan pods, an outdoor ‘secret garden’, while a bouncy castle and play area has also been installed to keep children entertained. 

Jade Jeffery, who runs the social media for The Bean Machine, said it amazing to finally open.

She said: “It feels so exciting.

“We can’t wait to welcome lots of customers and continue experimenting with some new flavours and themes over the coming months.

“We know there are some beautiful eateries around Essex, but we really feel like we bring something different to the table.

“The bus has been converted to make it possible to sit and enjoy a coffee comfortably but with charm and character.

“Where else can you sit in a place like this, on a swing or in a caravan, while children can play as you enjoy an iced coffee in the sunshine.”

The cafe is open from 8am until 4pm every day, and are also dog-friendly.

Owners have big plans for the future despite just opening their first bus and garden shop.

Jade added: “The dream one day is to have a bus that can move around and be mobile at events too, along side The Bean Machine.”

“We have got big plans to expand with more unique experiences and places to have them.

“We also will be using the site for people to host parties and events; we already have a few birthdays and baby showers booked in.”