9 unique and quirky North Yorkshire cafes

Fancy a unique dining experience? Here are some of North Yorkshire's quirkiest and most welcoming caffs.

There's no place better to go for a traditional afternoon Yorkshire tea than Betty's.

This famous cafe can be found all over North Yorkshire, including in Harrogate, York, Northallerton and Ilkley. With its classy décor and fabulous sweet treats, you can't miss it! 

Book afternoon tea to enjoy a specially devised menu and immaculate table setting. You'll be serenaded by a pianist and served a lavish selection of sandwiches, teas and miniature cakes and scones.

Or feel free to pop in without booking. You'll be thoroughly delighted with the menu of the season.

For Indian inspiration: Realitea

In the cosy city of Ripon, there's a spectacular tea room that fuses classic British afternoon tea and Indian cuisine to create an unforgettable experience.

Realitea serves all kinds of brews, from lattes and Yorkshire tea to rich cardamom teas and fruity blends. These can be accompanied by its fabulous cakes and savoury treats.

Talking of cakes, the dessert menu will leave you yearning for more. It includes cakes such as Pistachio and house-blend spice (Ripon's favourite), coconut and mango, chocolate fudge brownie and mango and cardamom. 

The food doesn't stop there, as the cafe also serves Indian-inspired lunches and a fusion of classic British afternoon tea and Indian snacks. It also hosts events such as a tapas night and dhaba evening.

For the adventurer: Time Cafe at Stump Cross Caverns

In beautiful Nidderdale lies a world of exciting history, adventure and amazing sights.

Stump Cross Caverns offers visitors the chance to explore an amazing prehistoric cave network, as well as take part in fun and educational activities.

But whether you choose to venture below ground or stay above, Stump Cross Caverns' Time Cafe is well worth a visit. Spectacular scenic views will leave you feeling like you've stepped back in time, making it the perfect place to sit, relax and enjoy a proper cup of Yorkshire Tea.

And with home-cooked foods and sweet treats galore, how could you refuse? 

For the jet-setter: Billy Bob's Parlour

Fancy a cheap trip away this year? Why not get transported to 1950s America with a trip to Billy Bob's Parlour? 

Hidden away on a farm near Skipton, Billy Bob's is a truly unique place that's great for adults and kids alike. 

A jukebox playing 50s bangers sets the scene as you enter. Then you can choose your seat. Will it be a diner booth? An American school bus? A retro gas station? Or out in the sun soaking up the sun and taking in the views?

For the children, there are also free play areas shaped like monster trucks, aeroplanes, tractors and trains.

The menu includes tea, cake, ice cream and soda, as well as diner-style dinners.

For the kids: The Hungry Caterpillar

On the high street in Knaresborough lies a cafe with a story.

It was opened by a mum of three, who had also looked after 28 children as a foster carer. She wanted a safe place for mothers to come with their children – a place where they could run and play and be unapologetically loud. After all, that's what childhood is all about.

And so, The Hungry Caterpillar was born. 

Mums and dads can sit with a cup of tea and cake and chat with friends. Kids, meanwhile, can make friends and play in the pool pit and soft play area.

For peace by the river: Marigold

If you want to visit Knaresborough but fancy a bit more peace and quiet, then Marigolds is the place to go.

This cafe is unique. Why? Because after your delicious lunch and soothing tea, you can hop in one of the boats and take a row down the river.

The views are stunning, the food delicious, and – if you're lucky – you might even spot kingfishers and otters.



For sun in the rain: Lago di Como

Have you got the vacation blues? Are you desperate to get away? But do holidays and the sun feel like a distant memory?

Try visiting Lago di Como in Harrogate. 

The high-quality, home-baked goods will warm your belly and your heart. And, of course, they taste incredible thanks to their fresh, locally grown ingredients.

Get a taste of Italy with sweets like Tia Maria tiramisu, handmade cannoli, limoncello polenta and berry cake. Or try savouries like pasta, pizzas and paninis with focaccia loaves. 

The quaint cafe serves coffees of all kinds, including cappuccino freddo and espresso freddo. It's like taking a trip to Italy or Greece – no plane ticket required.

For cheese lovers: 1897 Coffee Shop

If you take a trip to the Dales and visit the 1897 Coffee Shop in Hawes, you can nip next door to the Wensleydale Creamery and buy the most fabulous cheese.

The coffee shop serves hot drinks and light bites, as well as cakes, scones and cheeky beers. It's the perfect way to fuel up for the interactive experience next door, where you'll enjoy fascinating insights into the history of cheese making in the Yorkshire Dales.

For the country lover: Fewston Farm Shop

In the stunning countryside surrounding Harrogate sits the tiny village of Fewston. Here, you'll find a gorgeous farm cafe.

All the menu items are homemade from scratch each day, using only seasonal local ingredients that are found in the farm shop.

And once you've tried and tested your food, you can buy it for yourself from the shop. Yum!

Final thoughts

Whether you want peace and quiet or just some delicious food and a good hot drink, be sure to try one of these caffs. You won't be disappointed! 

And if you're looking for adventure, why not come visit us here at Stump Cross Caverns? You can start by exploring our ancient underground caves, then stop for tea and cake at our cafe with a view.

It's quick and easy to book your tickets online.