Betty's Tea Rooms

Betty’s Tea Room in York is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors, offering a quintessentially British tea experience in a setting steeped in history and elegance. Located in the heart of York at 6-8 St. Helen’s Square, this iconic tea room has been serving customers since 1919. Its founder, Frederick Belmont, a Swiss confectioner, brought his passion for fine patisserie and luxury service to Yorkshire, which quickly became famous across the UK.

What makes Betty’s a must-visit for food lovers is its legendary afternoon tea, especially in the elegant Belmont Room. Inspired by the Art Deco interiors of the Queen Mary ocean liner, this space offers a truly special atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy delicacies like their signature scones—Yorkshire Lavender and Sultana varieties—accompanied by clotted cream and fruity preserves, as well as exquisite handmade cakes and savoury sandwiches, all served on gleaming silver trays. If you’re lucky, you might even be serenaded by a live pianist, adding to the refined charm of the experience.

Food enthusiasts also flock to Betty’s for its famous Yorkshire Fat Rascal scones, a plump, fruity pastry that has become an emblem of the café. Their craft bakery and shop also showcase a dazzling array of chocolates, cakes, and breads, all beautifully presented—it’s almost impossible to leave empty-handed. Whether it’s their ornate fondant fancies or artisan loaves, everything is meticulously crafted, reflecting over a century of baking excellence.

While walk-ins are welcome, it’s wise to book ahead, especially for the afternoon tea service, as the long queues outside Betty’s Tea Room are as famous as the cakes themselves! It’s a place where nostalgia and elegance meet, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a classic British tradition.