Grays Court
Price guide: Budget
Chapter House Street, York, Yorkshire, YO1 7JH
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#10 of 20
expert-rated restaurants in York- Recommended for:
- Couples, Culture vultures, Families with teenagers, Mature travellers, Singles, Art, Design and architecture, Escaping the crowds, Great views / scenery, History
Best for Outdoor dining - Expert review of Grays Court
Even by York’s historic standards this for me is one of the most beguiling settings for tea.
Dating back a 1,000 years, a catalogue of kings, queens and dignitaries were once entertained here, now one of England’s most historic private homes hosts a lovely cafe radiating informal charm and gracious style.
Food and drink:
Traditionally British in conception and Yorkshire in provenance, the one or two French influences add a certain twist to the soups, salads, sandwiches, cakes and daily specials board.
Recommended dishes:
It’s quite expensive but I still go for the traditional English afternoon tea made up of dainty sandwiches, scones, cake and pastries.
Ambience:
Through the magnificent cobbled courtyard I head directly upstairs to the wood panelled long gallery. Running its length are comfy sofas and a mishmash of sturdy wooden tables and chairs to relax amongst the classical music and calm atmosphere. Local art works contribute to the furnishings, though if the weather is clement I like to take a table on the lawns of the charming walled garden.
Service:
The staff here can sometimes be a little elusive but once found they bring a cheery disposition to the table.
Location:
In the heart of York’s centre, it takes just a short walk from the minster, or can be accessed directly from the adjoining city walls close to Monk Bar.
Price advice:
Afternoon tea costs £20.00 per person while the price for lunches averages at around £9.00.
Tables to book:
No bookings taken here, but the best place in the house for me is in the bay window alcove at the heart of the long gallery.
More information on Grays Court:
- Price guide:
- Type:
- Café, Tearoom
- Food:
- British, Snacks, Traditional
- Address:
- Chapter House Street, York, Yorkshire, YO1 7JH
- Telephone:
- +44 1904 612 613
- Website:
- http://www.grayscourtyork.com/
- Serves:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea
- Opening times:
- Daily 10am-6pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Reservations:
- Not necessary
- Free tags / Keywords:
- history, historic, walled garden
