Best Afternoon Tea in York

We’ve rounded up the best dining destinations for Afternoon Tea in York, your only dilemma is which one to visit first. One of our favourite things to do is indulge in a decadent afternoon tea and there are not many better places to enjoy the quintessentially British tradition than the unofficial foodie capital of the north; York.

From the tourist hotspots to 5-star hotels, independent vintage favourites or dining in a railway carriage, the city of York has a huge array of stunning locations to enjoy one of Britain’s much-loved foodie experiences.

Discover by – Afternoon Tea in York City Centre | Afternoon Tea in the York Area

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Best Afternoon Tea in York City Centre

No.1 by GuestHouse

Just a short walk from York’s iconic Minster, No 1 GuestHouse is a Grade II listed regency townhouse of stately proportions and head turningly good looks. Expect huge sash windows, higher than high ceilings and a sweeping central staircase, together with the most Insta worthy interiors from award-winning expert Martin Hulbert, House & Garden’s 100 Leading Designers.

No 1 York’s afternoon tea combines a perfect selection of sweet and savoury treats. From dainty sandwiches, canapés, scones and cakes. All house-made using the finest British Ingredients.

Middletons Hotel

Middletons hotel is a remarkable collection of 17th-century buildings located inside the historic York city walls.

Their afternoon tea is beautifully presented and expertly created by their in-house pastry chef. Served with finely cut sandwiches, warm scones and a collection of decadent desserts. Served in their beautifully decorated restaurant or al fresco on the terrace.

Drinks include a rich variety of loose-leaf teas from Taylors of Harrogate or add-on a glass of Prosecco or Champagne for that extra special treat.

Skeldergate, York, YO1 6DU – 01904 611570

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 Hendrick’s Gin and Tonic Afternoon Tea (complete with Hendrick’s Gin and Tonic teapot with all the trimmings).

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

Bosun’s

The setting for the perfect afternoon tea experience is found inside Bosun’s, one of York’s most picturesque restaurants. Their afternoon tea menu includes fresh, flavourful finger sandwiches, tempting scones, and desserts that will leave you daydreaming for weeks.

They source their ingredients from a variety of local vendors, such as Millies Greengrocers and Millers of York. Imagine tangy rhubarb cheesecake, crème patisserie-topped strawberry tart, and lemon-craquelin choux buns with lemon curd.

The Boatyard, Ferry Ln, Bishopthorpe, York YO23 2SB – 01904 439739

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 Blueberry Bergamot Rolls 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

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. 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 

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.

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. 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.

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

Countess of York Afternoon Tea

Ok, so afternoon tea on the Orient Express might be a tad too expensive for us mere mortals (£235 each to be precise) but afternoon tea in York aboard the beautifully restored Countess of York might be the next best thing. Featuring delicious sandwiches and homemade cakes together with a wide selection of loose-leaf teas. There are even gluten-free and children’s options too.

National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ – 01904 686 295

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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.

Their afternoon teas include an amuse-bouche, followed by a selection of savoury and sweet treats, served with a choice of English Breakfast, fruit or herbal teas. Optional Masons Yorkshire G&T or champagne are sure to elevate your experience as 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“.

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

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