A trip to Harrogate is incomplete without indulging in the British custom of taking Afternoon Tea. The town has made an art form of this genteel repast that is available throughout the day.
As you wander through the streets you will find a choice of venues to rest, sip tea (or possibly something fizzy) and watch the world go by as rounds of sandwiches, scones and cakes are delivered to you on silver cake stands or decorative china.
Bettys Café Tea Rooms has been providing a memorable experience in elegant surroundings for over 100 years and little has changed from the staff uniforms to the famous recipes and specially blended teas. It is always worth admiring the remarkable displays of cakes and chocolates in the shop windows and possibly treating yourself to something to take home. A particular Betty’s favourite is their Fat Rascal, a sort of super-scone full of fruit and flavour. Don’t be put off by the inevitable queue outside at peak times which is a sign of its quality and popularity and will move along steadily. Alternatively, there is a second Bettys Tea Rooms situated at RHS Harlow Carr which is a scenic hour long walk outside the town by which time you will have an appetite for plenty of tea and cakes!
In town the centrally located Crown Hotel offers a traditional afternoon tea with homemade cakes and delicate pastries and is easily found between the Turkish Baths and Valley Gardens.
Opposite the railway station you will find Mama Doreen’s Emporium famed for their cupcakes serving afternoon tea with a more modern twist.
Many other hotels and cafes offer their own twists on this local tradition. Wherever you choose to enjoy your afternoon tea ensure that you have time to relax and savour the experience in the true Harrogate tradition.
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