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
Step into a world of magic at The Grand’s Wizard Afternoon Tea, right in the heart of York. Inspired by legends of wizards who once gathered beneath the hotel to share enchanted brews and cakes, this spellbinding tea brings the tradition back to life. Expect delicious treats, a touch of theatre and a family-friendly atmosphere that’s perfect for wizard fans of all ages.
📍 The Grand, Station Rise, York YO1 6GD
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
Wizard Afternoon Tea at The Potions Academy
If you’re looking for a unique afternoon tea in York that combines delicious food with immersive entertainment, The Potions Academy’s Wizard Afternoon Tea is a must. Run by the expert team behind The Potions Cauldron and The Hole in Wand, it’s an experience that brings the magic of wizardry to life in the heart of York, along with some delicious locally sourced treats. With a beautiful setting in the heart of the Shambles, a sprinkle of magic and some truly tasty locally sourced delicacies, it’s a fun, family-friendly experience unlike any other in York.
📍 1st Floor (entrance to rear, 37-38 Shambles, York YO1 7LX
Woodland afternoon tea at Dreamery Gardens
For something truly magical, head to The Kitchen at Dreamery Gardens – the gorgeous, cosy café at the start of the fairy trail – for its woodland-themed afternoon tea. The afternoon tea is a one-of-a-kind – a beautiful mix of sweet and savoury treats beautifully presented on a tiered platter: dainty sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, chocolate eggs in tiny nests, toadstool cupcakes, mushroom meringues, rice-paper butterflies and even clever Twiglet twigs. With its enchanting setting and attention to detail, it’s one of York’s most creative afternoon teas and delicious, too. We love it. Dreamery Gardens, Stamford Bridge, York YO41 1AP
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
York Theatre Royal Cafe
The cafe at York Theatre Royal is a total gem for families, with loads of space, a great selection of food and drink, friendly staff and baby changing. It’s very relaxed, and you’ll usually find a table. York Theatre Royal, St Leonard’s Pl, York YO1 7HD – Visit the York Theatre Royal website
