The Best Afternoon Teas in York

The Grand York Afternoon Tea

As winners of Conde Nast Johansen’s “Best Afternoon Tea” for 2022 and York’s only 5 Star Hotel & Spa, The Grand is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion with afternoon tea in York.

Served in the hotel’s stunning Rise Restaurant, Terrace & Bar with views of York’s City Walls. The perfect backdrop for a lovely atmospheric experience, right in the heart of the city. Indulge in their selection of savoury and sweet treats, a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Choose from their Signature Afternoon Tea, Sparkling (prosecco), Champagne or Appledore Afternoon Tea (complete with the finest English sparkling wines).

The Grand, Station Rise, York YO1 6GD – 01904 380045

Elmbank Hotel

A stunning destination to enjoy afternoon tea in York, the Elmbank is a beautiful 19th-century boutique hotel with a rich history. Located within minutes from the city centre and York race course, it’s the perfect city centre escape. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in their Leetham’s Brasserie with the option to add on a glass of prosecco or York Gin and Tonic.

The Mount, York YO24 1GE 

SORA

If you’re looking for afternoon tea in York with a gorgeous view of the city’s skyline, SORA is the spot for you. Situated on the seventh floor of the contemporary Malmaison Hotel, SORA is offering a unique, pan-Asian-inspired afternoon tea.

Dine on some true Japanese delights from Chicken Yakitori and Tempura Prawn to a Mango Coconut Dome and Matcha Scones. For an extra £10, you can also enjoy one of their delicious cocktails to truly elevate your afternoon tea experience.

2 Rougier St, York YO90 1UU – 01904 946060

Malmaison

The Chez Mal team at Malmaison in York creates menus full of fascinating and classic dishes using fresh seasonal ingredients.   No afternoon is complete without a perfectly formed cream sponge or a soft, fluffy scone smothered in strawberry jam, whether it be a simple yet charming cream tea or the full works with Champers. Malmaison put a slight twist on their afternoon teas, with Thai wraps, beef sliders and a raspberry and white chocolate sundae all making an appearance.

2 Rougier St, York YO90 1UU – 01904 946060  

Impossible Wonderbar & Tearoom

Located at St Helen’s Square, Impossible is situated within the famous Terry’s Chocolate Orange building. A unique venue with several stunning rooms combining a restaurant, tearoom, cocktail bars and events space.

Impossible’s afternoon tea in York has a delicious twist of treats, sandwiches, macaroons and more. Plus, a reference to its history with a special artisan coffee inspired by Terry’s, with notes of the famous chocolatier’s milk chocolate and orange.

Extend your visit to Impossible with a selection of quirky cocktails. Our personal favourite has to be the Passion Elixir (vanilla vodka infused with butterfly tea petals, pineapple, passionfruit and lime).

3 St. Helen’s Square, York YO1 8QN – 01904 864410

The Ivy

The iconic Ivy is located within the bustling St Helen’s Square. Expect all the style and glamour of the original Ivy London, as they serve a delicious selection of savoury and sweet treats 7 days a week. Expect dainty finger sandwiches, warm scones and plenty of sweets from Apricot Jam-Filled Doughnuts to Lemon and Poppy Seed Cupcakes. Champagne is obligatory in such a stunning location of course.

The Ivy, 2 St. Helen’s Square, York YO1 8QP – 01904 403888

Bettys

When anyone thinks of afternoon tea in York or even Yorkshire, probably the first name that springs to mind is Bettys. Going strong for over 100 years with queues out of the door come rain or shine, this very English institution ticks all the right boxes for a delicious afternoon tea. Let’s face it, it doesn’t get more British than an afternoon tea in one of Betty’s tearooms. You can also add pink champagne or prosecco to your booking for an extra touch of luxury.

6-8 St. Helen’s Square, York YO1 8QP – 01904 659142

Afternoon Tea in the York Area

Aldwark Manor

Located between York and Harrogate Aldwark Manor is a stunning 4-star hotel set within 120 acres of picturesque Yorkshire parklands.

Served in the stunning Element’s restaurant, their afternoon teas include traditional finger sandwiches, followed by freshly baked scones and sweet treats, served with a choice of English Breakfast, fruit or herbal teas. Optional Gosset champagne is sure to elevate your experience at one of York’s best afternoon teas.

Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 1UF – 01347 838146

Middlethorpe Hall

The traditional English ritual takes place in one of the grand public rooms of the historic hall or on warmer days on the south terrace. Afternoon Tea at Middlethorpe is enhanced by a local luxury connection with the old established family tea merchants “Taylors of Harrogate“. Either choose their normal afternoon tea or add prosecco, champagne or rose champagne for an extra special experience.

Middlethorpe Hall, Bishopthorpe Rd, York YO23 2GB – 01904 641241

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE…

Save up to 38% this month on vouchers & experiences across Yorkshire