York’s much-loved rivers, the Ouse and the Foss, wind right through the heart of the city and are a must-visit for families exploring York with kids. As well as boat trips with the brilliant City Cruises and lovely riverside walks, it’s also a perfect place to eat with kids in tow. There’s something magical about chilling out beside the water with something to eat or drink, whether you’re after a sunny lunch spot, a brew with a view or just a cheeky ice cream while you watch the ducks float by. Here are some of our favourite cafes in York (and just beyond) by the water, and they’re all family-friendly.
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Best cafes in York by the water
The Perky Peacock – There’s nowhere quite like The Perky Peacock for a coffee, cake or simple lunch. Not only does it have amazing riverside views right next to Lendal Bridge and the rowing club, but it even has its own dungeon! Barker Tower, North St, York YO1 6BE – Visit the website
SOPHiE Skeldergate – One of York’s most beautiful little buildings is home to SOPHiE, a lovely cafe with a stunning riverside terrace. Enjoy a cake or brunch/lunch favourites, and make sure you poke your heads inside – it’s so pretty. SOPHiE, Skeldergate Bridge, York YO1 9WJ – Follow them on Instagram
Rowntree Park Reading Cafe – Hands down one of the most family-friendly cafes in York, Rowntree Park Reading Cafe is gorgeous. Browse or borrow a book from the children’s area (it’s a little branch of the Explore York library), tuck into something tasty and watch the swans floating by from a table on the terrace. Run it all off at one of the play areas afterwards. Rowntree Park Lodge, Richardson St, York YO23 1JU – Visit the website
The Riverfront, Bishopthorpe – A bit of a hidden gem, The Riverfront is well worth a trip with your kids. Sit and enjoy a drink, snack or meal by the river at this beautiful spot in Bishopthorpe. Fancy splashing out? Book a table at Bosun’s, the swish sister restaurant that overlooks the water. The Riverfront, Ferry Ln, Bishopthorpe, York YO23 2SB – Visit the website
The Full Moo – Ice cream vans are out, ice cream boats are IN! Head down to Lendal Bridge for a delicious cone from The Full Moo, then find a bench (there are plenty) and watch the world go by. York Museums Gardens are right behind you, so take the kids for a run around the ruins while you’re there. Dame Judi Dench Walk, York YO1 7DR
Two Hoots Ice Cream Boat – Another gorgeous ice cream boat serving gorgeous ice cream by the Millennium Bridge during the warmer months. Pick your scoops and sprinkles, then find a lovely patch of grass (there’s lots of space) and see how many boats you can spot. Follow them on Instagram
City Screen Picturehouse – One of the original places to eat in York with a river view, and still one of our favourites. You don’t need to be catching a movie to grab a table and watch the boats float by, ideally with a bowl of their tasty handcut chips to enjoy. 13-17 Coney St, York YO1 9QL – Visit the website
SOPHiE, Lendal Bridge – This cute little cafe on Lendal Bridge has epic milkshakes and cake that our kids are still dreaming about since our last visit. Grab a table in the little garden for the river views, or take a seat inside if the weather turns. East Lodge, Lendal Bridge, York YO1 7DP – Follow them on Instagram
Falling Foss Tea Garden – One of the prettiest places to enjoy a scone in the North York Moors, Falling Foss Tea Garden is only open for some of the year, so catch it while you can. Paddle in the stream, marvel at the waterfall and find a rope swing or two on the walk from the car park. Midge Hall, Whitby YO22 5JD – Follow them on Instagram
Marigold Cafe, Knaresborough – A short drive or train ride away from York, pretty Knaresborough is a lovely place for a family day out, and the river is one of the main attractions. Head for the water, marvel at the viaduct and grab a table at the waterfront Marigold Cafe (it’s popular, so prepare to queue at peak times). Why not hire a rowing boat while you’re there? 16 Waterside, Knaresborough HG5 8DE – Visit the website
The Beach Cafe, Hunmanby – Okay, so this one is a bit of a drive from York, but we love the simplicity of the Beach Cafe at Hunmanby so much that we had to include it. Tuck into a bucket of chips and enjoy beautiful views of the sea and sand. Note that you’ll need cash to pay for the closest car park. Sands Rd, Hunmanby Gap, Filey YO14 9QW – Follow them on Instagram
