The original Betty’s tearoom opened in Harrogate in 1919 when Frederick Belmont used the craftsmen and interior designers behind the Queen Mary ship to make a luxury, traditional tearoom. Since then, with outposts all over the country, Betty’s tearooms have become some of Yorkshire’s most beloved spots for a cuppa and the Ilkley branch is no different.
With its idyllic location right in the centre of beautiful Ilkley, you can’t miss the black and gold façade of Betty’s with plants hanging above the large windows. The bright and spacious interior is classic of all branches of Betty’s with the marble-topped tables, wicker chairs and smartly dressed servers radiating an air of class.
There is a broad menu of food options at Betty’s ranging from various different speciality poached egg dishes for breakfast, to a slow cooked Yorkshire beef pie for a heartier meal, or a mushroom quiche for something a little lighter. However, it wouldn’t be a tearoom without a lengthy menu of sandwiches and cakes. Sandwiches include roast chicken, egg mayonnaise, ham, steak and poached salmon, and can be followed by delights such as a warm treacle tart, or the grande raspberry macaroon.
To go alongside your cakes and sandwiches, Betty’s famous collection of different teas is tough to beat varying from Earl Grey and golden valley Darjeeling, to herbal teas including lemongrass and ginger tisane. There are also plenty of coffees on offer, as well as the option of a glass of wine or bubbles if you want to add a celebratory air to your visit.
If you’re finding the huge amount of options overwhelming, Betty’s has various set afternoon tea menus which include sandwiches, cakes and tea, and can also be enjoyed with a glass of champagne. This is what Betty’s is best known for and is a great way of trying everything they have on offer.