Must-try Tea Rooms and Coffee Shops in York

A guide to the best afternoon tea in York and the must visit coffee shop in York where you can study to take a break away from the library!

The historic city of York is famous for its Viking roots, Minster, and castle. It’s also a popular destination for students, and there are several colleges and universities, both in the city itself as well as on the outskirts. If you are planning to study at the University of York, York St John University, or one of the other smaller educational institutions, no doubt you’ll be looking forward to sampling some great coffee and cake.

Famous York Tearooms and Coffee Shops

York is renowned for its quaint tearooms that offer a taste of British tradition. Among the most famous is Betty’s, a tea room that has been serving up scones, sandwiches, and cakes since 1919. With its elegant decor and uniformed waiters, Betty’s transports visitors back in time. Be sure to try their popular Fat Rascals, a fruity Yorkshire-style scone. You won’t get cheap afternoon tea York here, but it’s a perfect venue to take your parents when they visit. ( See pictured below left & middle)

Another iconic spot is the Castle Tea Rooms, where they serve delicious cakes on a fine bone china tea service. If you are looking for nice cafes in York, put this one on your list. The staff are always welcoming!

For a cosy, old-fashioned tea experience, visit Ye Old York Tea Room on Goodramgate. It is located within a Grade I historic building. They serve traditional cream teas and homemade cakes in a small but charming venue. Beware that it can get busy at peak times. ( Pictured below right.)

Independent Coffee Shops in York

Students can’t live without good coffee, so it’s fortunate that there are plenty of independent coffee shops in York, alongside familiar chains like Costa and Starbucks.

Gatehouse Coffee on Walmgate, close to the city walls, is a favourite local spot acclaimed for its ethical, farm-direct coffee. It’s one of those quirky coffee shops York you’ll return to again and again.

Another top independent coffee shop is Spring Espresso on Fossgate. They serve single-origin coffees and tasty brunch fare like bacon sandwiches and slices of cake.

Coffee lovers also flock to Coffee Culture on Goodramgate, known for its laidback vibe and dedication to sourcing sustainable coffees.

Cafes in York with Free Wi-Fi for Studying In

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys good coffee, cake, and the company of people while you study, there are plenty of cafes and coffee shops that offer free Wi-Fi.

Gatehouse Coffee and Spring Espresso both have free Wi-Fi. 200 Degrees Coffee Shop is another excellent choice located on Low Petergate. Their coffee and cakes provide delicious fuel for concentration.

Locations Offering Student Discount in York

Students on a budget are sure to appreciate Gatehouse Coffee’s student discount on all drink purchases with a valid student ID. Plush Café has a garden room with swing seats that will look fantastic on your Instagram feed. It, too, has discounts for students with a valid ID.

Other student deals can be found around town by asking servers and baristas if they offer special rates for those with valid student IDs. It never hurts to ask!

With its abundance of tea rooms, coffee shops, and cafes, York offers plenty of atmospheric, caffeinated, and discounted options for students. If you’re sleep-deprived, hungover, or looking for somewhere comfortable for your study group, there is always a perfect spot in this historic city!