Bettys
York, North Yorkshire
Loved by locals and tourists alike, this Yorkshire institution promises smart, warm and remarkably consistent service across five sites including Harrogate, Northallerton, Ilkley and York. The latter opened in 1936 after founder Frederick Belmont sailed to America on The Queen Mary and, inspired by its opulent Art Deco interiors, drafted in the same craftsmen to design a splendid new tea room. Nine decades later, the charm lives on and refurbishment to the first-floor Belmont Room will see original features restored to their former glory. The Swiss-style menu rarely changes and covers breakfast (served all day), lunch dishes such as rösti or schnitzel, afternoon tea (bookable) and, of course, a cake trolley loaded with tempting fruit tarts and fondant fancies. Expect to queue at peak times and pay handsomely, but tucking into a warm fat rascal piled with butter and a pot of tea served in traditional silverware will always be worth the wait.
