If the thought of taking your children for afternoon tea fills you with dread – the noise! the crumbs! – consider this: a child is never quieter than in the presence of cake. So imagine just how compliant they are when they’re faced with three tiers of baked goodies! We’re big fans of taking children along to so-called adult experiences, and afternoon tea is no different. Even better, there are plenty of afternoon tea options in York that specifically cater for children. Here’s our pick of the best afternoon teas in York for kids – just promise us you won’t try to nab their special scones.
Afternoon tea at The Grand, York
For a five-star afternoon tea experience in York, The Grand is just the place. Excellent family-friendly service and beautifully presented food are guaranteed at Yorkshire’s only five star hotel, just a stone’s throw from York city centre. There’s even a dedicated children’s afternoon tea menu, with a selection of treats bursting with all the classics, including strawberry milkshake, scones and mini jam donuts! It’s an excellent family-friendly place to stay in York, too, if you fancy splashing out – read our review of our stay at The Grand, York here. The Grand, Station Rise, York YO1 6GD
*Little Vikings Family Card Discount – Complimentary Grandollars for children to spend on mocktails and more at The Grand OR complimentary prosecco with lunch or dinner. Click here to find out more about the Little Vikings Family Card*
Afternoon tea at Bettys, York
Afternoon tea at Bettys in York is worth braving the queues for. Expect exquisite cakes and pastries, dainty sandwiches and a vast selection of teas and coffee. Children will be served a pared-down version by the friendly staff. Don’t want to risk the queues? Book a table in the upstairs Belmont Room instead, where you’ll have more space and may even be treated to live music from the pianist. Celebrating? Why not upgrade with a glass of champagne? Bettys, 6-8 St. Helen’s Square, York YO1 8QP – Afternoon tea is served daily throughout the day
Afternoon tea at No.1 York by GuestHouse
No.1 is a 39-bedroomed, charmer of a hotel nestled in the centre of York, just a 10-minute walk from The York Minster. It’s absolutely beautiful and its gorgeous restaurant and lounge are open to non-residents (although we bet you’ll be working out how you can wangle a night away there once you step through the doors). Their afternoon tea sounds delightful: served in The Marmalade Lounge at No.1, their dainty sandwiches, canapés, scones and cakes are all made using fine British ingredients. Served daily from 12 noon to 5pm. No.1, 1 Clifton, York YO30 6AA
Afternoon tea at The Ivy, York
A hop, skip and jump from Bettys is The Ivy, a sumptuous bar and restaurant that’s open all day from early breakfast to late-night suppers and cocktails. They also offer afternoon tea from 3pm to 5pm daily, and children are very welcome to head along and enjoy a refined experience in beautiful surroundings. The service is warm and welcoming and it’s a lovely place to spend time and watch the world go by. The Ivy, 2 St. Helen’s Square, York YO1 8QP
THREE MORE FAMILY-FRIENDLY CAFES IN YORK
Brew & Brownie
Well known for their amazing pancakes, Brew & Brownie (and their sister cafe the Bakeshop, just along the road) also serve fantastic cakes and pastries. They make a cracking coffee too. Be prepared to wait during busy periods. Brew & Brownie, 5 Museum Street, York YO1 7DT; visit the Brew & Brownie website
Crumbs Cupcakery
A sweet little cafe in the shadow of York Minster, Crumbs Cupcakery specialises in cupcakes galore. Sit inside the vintage-inspired cafe or grab a pavement table and watch the world go by. Crumbs Cupcakery, 10 College St, York YO1 7JF; visit the Crumbs Cupcakery website
Plush Cafe York
Plush Cafe is one of the most fun places in York for tea and cake. With several themed rooms, including the popular Garden Room with swings, it’s an Instagrammer’s delight. Children are welcome and there are lots of veggie and vegan options. Plush Cafe, 6 Stonegate, York YO1 8AS – Visit the Plush Cafe website
* Little Vikings Family Card Discount – Upgrade your afternoon tea at Plush Cafe York with a speciality tea, coffee or hot chocolate with any afternoon tea. More info here *
