We’ve been really looking forward to July. Welcoming in with open arms, all the long summer nights, al fresco dining, social events, and of course, trips t' coast.
Later on in the month, we can expect to see local teams battle it out on the Ouse for charity in a bid to be crowned champion of the waters in this years Rotary Dragon Boat Challenge. York’s music scene is also looking pretty vibrant this July too. From the York Early Music Festival to the Music Showcase Weekend at York Racecourse, there’s something to suit every music taste.
By the time you read this July edition, tickets may well have sold out but we also thought it worth mentioning that this month sees the best of comedy here in the city. From Jack Whitehall at York Barbican, to Russell Howard at the Grand Opera House, July is certainly going to be a busy one for York’s performance venues.
As ever, York is the gift that keeps on giving. Until next month!
The What's On Team. Xx
SUMMER OPEN DAY, Poppleton
Community Railway Nursery, 10am-4pm. With a special buy one, get one free offer on bedding plants and we have a wide range of perennials, shrubs and herbs on sale. Tea, coffee, and homemade cake will be available, and you can browse our book, bric-a-brac and craft stalls. The railway and model railway will be on show together with the railway museum.
NHS RECRUITMENT EVENT, York Hospital (main entrance), 10am-2pm. With various different roles to discover, come and find out more about what it is like to work for our wonderful NHS. There will also be an opportunity to win an Amazon voucher! No booking required - just turn up! Free parking available. To find out more, call 01904 721631 or visit yhs-tr.careers@nhs.net.
STEAM & VINTAGE RALLY, Duncombe Park. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of The Great Yorkshire Traction Engine Rally, this fantastic weekend event is set to host steam engines, tractors, vintage vehicles, crafts, a fun fair, and plenty more. To find out more, visit gytec.weebly.com/.
HUBY AND SUTTON SHOW, Sutton Park, YO61 1DP. Held in the beautiful grounds of Sutton Park, the well-loved agricultural show is back. With educational displays, competition classes, craft stalls, home produce, fairground rides and much more, the Huby and Sutton Show provides the family with a day of great fun. For more information, please visit www. hubyandsuttonshow.org.uk.
SOULFUL SUNDAY, Delta Hotels by Marriott York, Tadcaster Road, 1:45pm-6pm. Enjoy a soulful afternoon in the beautiful picturesque setting of Delta Hotels garden. Indulge in
Itching for something to do in York?
Read our handy events and attractions guide covering York and the surrounding areas.
Afternoon tea and a glass of fizz and be serenaded by soul and jazz duo Jenkins and Alexander, followed by a soulful DJ set from John Diego. Tickets from £25. To book visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/ and search for York Delta Hotel.
YORK EARLY MUSIC FESTIVAL, Various locations.
Commemorating one of England’s most celebrated composers, William Byrn in this year’s annual Early Music Festival. Guest artists include Ensemble Jupiter, the City Musick, Rachel Podger and Daniele Caminiti, plus many more talented musicians. Tickets on sale now! For more information, please visit www. ncem.co.uk/whats-on/yemf/.
8TH JULY
STEVE STEINAN'S ANYTHING FOR LOVE, York Barbican, 7:30pm. Following his 2022 sell-out tour, highly acclaimed and No.1 recording artist, Steve Steinman, is embarking on his 30th Anniversary Tour, bringing you his brand-new production featuring over 25 of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman’s greatest hits. With an incredible stage set, a ten-piece live band, combined with Steve’s well-known sense of humour and stage presence, the show will have you up on your feet dancing and singing out loud. Book your tickets at www. yorkbarbican.co.uk.
// 8TH-9TH JULY
EBORACUM ROMAN FESTIVAL, Museum Gardens. Take a step back in time and witness the age of the Romans in the heart of York. This historical, educational and fun event includes a Roman Living History Camp, family activities and plenty more. For more information, please visit www.yorkshiremuseum. org.uk/eboracum-romanfestival-2023.
// 9TH JULY
YORK ROTARY DRAGON BOAT CHALLENGE, City Centre. A fun-filled day event in support of amazing local charities and organisations, 36 teams will battle it out on the River Ouse for the Challenge Trophy. But who is to be crowned this years Rotary winner? For more information, please visit www.yorkrotary. co.uk/dragon-boat-challenge.
// 15TH JULY
YORK MAZE, Elvington. This year's maze is set to aMAZE the family for a full day out packed
with plenty of attractions, shows and rides and of course the maze! Tickets must be booked via www.yorkmaze.com.
// 15TH-16TH JULY
QUILTING FESTIVAL, All Saints Church, Newton On Ouse, 10am-4pm. For all the needlecraft lovers. Come and see demonstrations, take part in workshops and browse an amazing range of embroidery styles and textile work, broderers sample pieces from York Minster, plus the Fulford Tapestry. Entry fee £3, under 18s free. Refreshments and children’s activities available. For details and booking visit, www. allsaintsnewton.org.uk.
// 21ST-22ND JULY
STAMP AND COIN FAIR, YORK RACECOURSE, 10am-5pm. With over 150 stamp, coin, banknote and medal dealers in attendance you can find out more about postal history and browse through dealers’ stock at your leisure. You can also buy, sell and get valuations. Free entry. Refreshments available. For more information visit www. conferenceandeventsyork.co.uk/
whats-on-guide.html.
// 28TH-29TH JULY
MUSIC SHOWCASE WEEKEND, York Racecourse. The popular, annual music showcase weekend is back this July. Featuring The Human League on Friday and Craig David on Saturday, this weekend promises a summer extravaganza with plenty of fun, fantastic tunes, and refreshments. For more information, please visit www.yorkracecourse.co.uk/ racing-fixtures.html?dates_ step=2&meet_id=132.
// 29TH JULY
OUTRAGEOUS, Bluebox, 12 New Street, 10pm-4am.
Enjoy a spectacular night out with performances from Lois Denominator, Bodie Snatcher and Bailey Bubbles. Lois will be on the decks playing only the best tunes, entertaining you through to the early hours. Over 18s only. Last entry 2am. Tickets cost £7 (£5 with a 2023 pride wristband). Pay on the door or book online now at yorkpride.org. uk/outrageous-july2023.
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
// 29TH JULY
MEADOWFEST, Riverside
Meadows, YO17 6AX, 10am-10pm. A relaxed music festival set in the beautiful riverside meadows and gardens of The Talbot Hotel in Malton. Dance away in the natural surroundings to funk, blues, reggae, rock and more. With plenty of family friendly activities, live music, street food and festival bar, children’s entertainment, inflatables and fairground rides. Camping available at the Castle Howard Lakeside Holiday Park for just £28 per night if you wanted to stay for the weekend. Free parking on site or accessible by train. Visit www.visitmalton.com/ meadowfest to book tickets.
// 29TH -30TH JULY
YORK PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY EXHIBITION, Poppleton Tithe Barn, Church Lane, Poppleton, 10am-5pm. Over 120 prints from members will be on display in the historic 16th century Tithe Barn, including a selection of images awarded at the YPU annual exhibition. Free Entry. For more information visit www. yorkphotosoc.org/exhibition.
// 5TH AUGUST
THE BOATYARD FESTIVAL, Ferry Ln, Bishopthorpe, 10am - late. Back for its second year and it promises to be bigger! A picturesque riverside live music festival with an exciting line-up including well-known York band, Bull headlining. Expect stalls, fantastic BBQ food, wood-fired pizzas, face painting, a hula-hoop workshop, fayre games and more. Kids under 14 go free. An
adult day ticket costs £8 or you can purchase a camping ticket for £20 per person and stay the night. For more information and to book tickets visit, theboatyard.co.uk/events.
// 5TH, 6TH, 12TH, 13TH, 19TH & 20TH AUGUST
YORK RIVER ART MARKET, Dame Judi Dench Walk, 10am5.30pm. Over 30+ artists will be selling their beautiful original art and handcrafted goods in the picturesque setting of York Riverside. For more information search @yorkriverartmarket.
// 25TH-28TH AUGUST
YORKSHIRE BALLOON FIESTA, Castle Howard, York, 10am10:30pm. The annual fiesta returns this year, bigger and better than ever and in a brand-new location. With an exciting music line up, all the usual entertainment and family activities returning, plus the added opportunity to camp for the weekend, this event is not to be missed. Book your tickets now at yorkshireballoonfiesta.co.uk.
// 27TH, 28TH, 29TH AUG
POPPLETON ARTISTS’ EXHIBITION AND SALE, Tithe Barn, Nether Poppleton. 10am5pm on Saturday and Sunday, and 10am-4pm on Monday. Poppleton Artists Exhibition will host all original work from over 25 artists. Showcasing around 250 pieces of work. Entry is free refreshments are available too. Search Poppleton Artists Exhibition on Facebook to find out more information.
// EVERY MON
JOYCE RHODES YOGA, Fulford Social Hall, 7.30pm. A mixedability yoga class with a very experienced accredited teacher, qualified with the British Wheel of Yoga. Email Joycegrhodes@ btinternet.com.
// EVERY TUES
STOCKTON FORESTERS DRAMA GROUP, Stockton on the Forest Village Hall, 7.30pm. A friendly, fun local amateur theatre group, producing two plays a year. Whether you fancy being
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
on stage or helping behind the scenes, they would love to hear from you! For more information, email Holly at dramastockton@ gmail.com or find Stockton foresters drama group on Facebook.
MENFULNESS RUNNING CLUB, Millennium Bridge, York, from 7.30pm. An all-abilities weekly running group run by David Lingwood. A chance to talk to like-minded men, and have a laugh whilst exercising, and afterward, an opportunity for a post-run beverage.
HEWORTH RETIRED MEN’S GROUP, Heworth Without Community Centre, 10-11.30am. This friendly social group meets fortnightly on Tuesdays. Anyone can join, whether or not you live in Heworth! A brilliant chance to make new friends, and experience talks from excellent speakers on a wide range of topics, along with refreshments. For more information, please contact Allen Humphries at 07517661872.
YOGA WITH NESTOR, Stockton on the Forest Village Hall, 10am. A mixed ability yoga class, beginners welcome. Email nestorportnoy@ yahoo.com to find out more information.
HARMONY LADIES CHOIR, Acomb Methodist Church Hall, 7:30pm. A friendly group that needs no audition to join and they are looking for new members, come along and give it a try. For more information visit www.yorkharmony.co.uk.
YOGA IN DALBY FOREST, Dalby Vistor Centre. Suitable for all abilities, this wonderful yoga practice delivered by an experienced instructor, will restore and revitalise you in the beautiful setting of the nature site, Dalby Forest. Visit www. forestryengland.uk/forest-event/ events-dalby-forest/yoga-dalbyforest.
// EVERY 1ST AND 3RD WED
STRICTLY FUN BARN DANCING! Acomb Methodist Church Hall, 2.15-4.30pm. Enjoy an afternoon of barn and ceilidh-style social dancing. Admission is £3. For more information, please call Phil on 01904 783029.
// EVERY 2ND WED
ACOMB LOCAL HISTORY
SOCIETY, Acomb Church Hall, 10am. Enjoy a guest speaker’s presentation followed by refreshments. Admission is £1 for members, £2.50 for nonmembers and £5 for a yearly membership.
// EVERY THUR
YOGA WITH NESTOR, 29 Maple Grove, Fulford. A mixed ability yoga class, beginners welcome.
Email nestorportnoy@yahoo. com
PURELY BALLROOM, Huntington Working Men's Club, 7-8.30pm. Join this friendly beginners' ballroom and Latin dance lesson. Tuition will be focused on the jive, cha cha cha, and waltz up to the Christmas break. Call 07939 336315 or email andy.k.gant@ gmail.com for more information.
// EVERY THUR AND FRI
SILVER SWANS BALLET, for over 55s (under 55s also welcome) Huntington Memorial Hall (Thursdays) and St. Mary’s Church Hall, Haxby (Fridays). This gentle ballet class is adapted and age-appropriate. Get fit, have fun, and meet people with a passion for life! Taught by RAD Silver Swans Licensee and director of Jorvik Dance. Call 07725 478479 or visit www.jorvikdance.com for more information.
// EVERY SUN
WIGGINTON CAR BOOT, Home Farm, Wigginton. The classic Wigginton Car Boot Sale is on every Sunday and gates open at 6.30am, weather permitting. Cars cost £8 and vans are £9, with
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
additional trailers at £2 extra. Public admission is £1 with toilets and refreshments available. Call 01904 768463 for more information.
DOWN BY THE RIVER, Plonkers
Wine Bar, 8:30pm. Calling all open mic night lovers. Head on down to Plonkers Wine bar every Sunday to enjoy an evening of live music in a relaxed atmosphere. Free drink to all performers and all music equipment is provided on the night. To find out more information search Plonkers Wine Bar on Facebook.
KENTMERE HOUSE GALLERY, Scarcroft Hill, York. Pop along to Kentmere House Gallery to witness the work of artists who are members of Royal Art Societies, including Robert Palmer, Richard Pikesley, Roy Freer, Susan Bower and Fred Cuming. For more information, please call 01904 656507.
BEETLE BANK OPEN FARM, Moor Lane, Murton. From alpacas to goats, come and meet rare breeds at this lovely, local farm. The site features an education centre where you can learn more about the animals, an adventure playground, and a cafe plus farm shop.
CASTLE HOWARD. Marvel at the palace which took over 100 years to complete, wander through the manicured gardens, play at Skelf Island, and take souvenirs home with you from The Farm Shop and Garden Centre. Prebooking is recommended. Visit castlehoward.co.uk.
CITY CRUISES YORK, York's favourite water-based attraction offers sightseeing, dining, self-
drive, and private hire cruises on the River Ouse, and is a muchloved and highly regarded staple of York's visitor economy.
CITY WALLS EXPERIENCE, Micklegate Bar. Visit one of the historic gateways into the city and discover 2,000-year stories involving battle, imprisonment, and near destruction. This new attraction is open until October. Visit yorkcitywalls.com.
DARK TALES OF YORK, Book
a private tour to explore the narrow streets and alleyways of York and learn about the rich and haunting history that the city has amassed over hundreds and thousands of years. Call 07530 378176 or visit www. darktalesofyork.com.
GHOST TRAIL OF YORK, West
Doors of York Minster, 7.30pm. Dare you cross the centuries and discover York's spine-chilling history? Visit www.ghosttrail. co.uk or call 01904 633276.
JORVIK VIKING CENTRE, Coppergate. Discover the Original Viking Encounter! Enjoy the world-famous ride experience with the sights, sounds, and smells of the Viking Age, as well
as get up close to the ancient artefacts and interact with their friendly real-life Vikings. Visit www.jorvikvikingcentre. co.uk.
JORVIK DIG, St Saviourgate. Head down to DIG on St Saviourgate where your little ones can experience a real hands-on archaeological adventure! Visit www.digyork. com for more information.
NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS
RAILWAY, Pickering. Experience 24 miles of Yorkshire’s amazing scenery in historic carriages behind a heritage steam or diesel locomotive. Book online at nymr. co.uk
SOCIAL YORKIES IVC, Various locations. New to the area? Want to try something new? Just fancy a change? Come and join Social Yorkies a local social and activities group. Come along to their regular social events across the month in a popular York City centre location. For further details, please visit www.yorkivc. club.
THE HOLE IN WAND, Coppergate Shopping Centre, York. Visit the world’s most magical golf course
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
and enjoy a Wizarding adventure. This unique 9 hole course is one for the Wizard fans! There is even a Wizard Tavern to relax in after your victory. To find out more information or to book, please visit www.theholeinwand.com/ york.
THE POTIONS CAULDRON, 93/4 Shambles, York. Visit the magical apothecary at 93/4 Shambles and enter the world of magic. Enjoy the spellbinding potion making experience or indulge yourself in an array of magical gifts and souvenirs. Visit www. thepotionscauldron.com to find out more information.
THE YORK DUNGEON, Clifford Street. If you enjoy a bit of mild peril in your life, then you need to go to The York Dungeon. Never before has history been so entertaining – and terrifying. Visit www.thedungeons.com/ york.
WHITE ROSE YORK TOURS, Meet at the West Entrance to York Minster, 11am and 3pm (also 1pm Friday and Saturday). Take a free history tour of the city centre. Visit www.whiteroseyork.com or call 07792 207679.
WIZARD WALK OF YORK, The Shambles. Explore the enchanting historical city on a mission to locate magical creatures. Ideal for children aged between five and ten years old, there are several evening days available; reserve your spot
online at www.wizardwalkofyork. com.
YORK LEISURE CENTRE, York Leisure Centre at the York Stadium Leisure Complex at Monks Cross has a great range of activities guaranteed to turn up the fun. From the junior gym, swimming, racquet sports, and clip 'n climb, the whole family will enjoy a range of fun and affordable activities. Visit better. org.uk/york-lc.
YORK MANSION HOUSE, Book in to visit York's most exclusive address. Across four floors, walk in the footsteps of Lord Mayors and some of the most infamous figures in York's history, discovering grand State Rooms, vast kitchens, and hidden passages. Visit www. mansionhouseyork.com for more information.
YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM, Elvington. Did you know that the first-ever aeroplane was invented in Yorkshire? Explore aircraft from throughout history as well as archive material and documentation and learn all about the world of aviation. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll on the Nature of Flight walk or take a moment to reflect in the Remembrance Garden. Visit yorkshireairmuseum.org.
YORK GOLF RANGE, Towthorpe Moor Lane, near Strensall. Set in beautiful countryside, York Golf Range features a whole host of fun activities, including a floodlit driving range, a nine-hole golf course, crazy golf, and even foot golf – a great combination of soccer and golf. Visit www. yorkgolfrange.co.uk or call 01904 499275.
York is known for many things but holds a particular place in the hearts of those who adore all things magic. From Harry Potter to hidden horrors, there’s certainly something mystical about this city. In the last few years, The Potions Cauldron Group have created several magical experiences across the city of York and recently, we sent our resident muggle, Mim to experience them:
I was delighted when York’s latest Wizardly addition, The Hole in the Wand opened its doors at Coppergate in May 2021, offering locals and visitors alike the chance to play a mystical, competitive game for everyone to enjoy.
Walking into the building, we are greeted straight away and are given step-by-step instructions by their friendly, well-dressed staff. Adorned in their Hole in the Wand waistcoats and shirts, the staff certainly set off the whole feel of this experience. We then enter a lovely gift shop with potion drinks and gifts, including some cuddly toys and treats for your kids or even to treat yourself! We also notice the Wizard Tavern where you can go sit down, and sample some lovely cauldron cake and potions. After the short walk through the gift shop, we are then given the choice of a feather quill and a scorecard, in preparation for the game. The scorecard even has a riddle to solve, so you get the chance to win another game in the future! We pick our wandstyle golf clubs and head for the
first hole.
Along the way, there are plenty of magical props that make you feel like you’re in another world, including medieval pictures on the wall, complete with a mystical dark corridor that adds a bit of spook to the scene. I get to the ninth hole and add to the fun as I lose my ball through the fireplace exit. Every mini-golfer knows, there’s always going to be one dodgy shot!
We come to the end of the game and are given a magicalthemed drink. Drinks are selected depending on how well you played, from ‘Tears of a Wizard’ to ‘Serpent’s Venom’. And, if you’re feeling particularly victorious, you also get the choice to have a picture taken at the end to remind you of this fantastic experience.
After visiting the Hole in the Wand we walk up to The Potions Cauldron for our potion experience on the Shambles. The shop has a lovely choice of potions and cauldrons to purchase before you walk into a dark spooky room. Receiving a refreshing drink - either soft for children or alcoholic for adults - visitors have a chat with their cauldron expert, who lets you know that ghosts have been seen in this really old building and it does give you a haunted feel as you are taken on a journey with lots of hidden surprises in the room (I won’t give that part away though!) Finally, we then choose what drink we want to make, using ingredients such as popping
candy and a flashing ice cube, which the kids seem to thoroughly enjoy. The drinks are tasty and this little touch adds to the experience of the day. The entire magical experience with The Potions Cauldron Group didn’t disappoint. It was full of laughter and fun and every room is thought out to play with your imagination. I would recommend this for a good day out in York, especially for families or days out with friends.
For bookings and more information, please visit www. thepotionscauldron.com or www.theholeinwand.com.
// JULY THEATRE DIARY
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
To book, call 0333 009 6690 or visit atgtickets.com.
// 8TH JULY
THE BEST OF BROADWAY
One for the musical theatre lovers, this show celebrates the very best Broadway successes. Performed by SLP College, Leeds, it will be a song and dance spectacular. Expect Legally Blonde, Sweet Charity, Grease, Moulin Rouge and more, including a special tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber.
// 13TH JULY
ANTON & GIOVANNI - HIM & ME
For one night only, join a talented cast of dancers and singers, along with BBC Strictly Come Dancing’s very own Anton Du Beke and Giovanni Pernice for an evening of song, dance, and plenty of fun. Please note, this show may contain haze, smoke, pyrotechnics, and flashing lights.
// 19TH JULY
RHYTHM OF THE DANCE
Immerse yourself in Irish culture with a world-class musical performance. Experience a blend of classic, old-style Irish dance, and the militant, clean modern style it has evolved into. This Irish in essence show will bring a new perspective of Irish music and dance, with lyrical and contemporary influences.
// 21ST JULY
ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS - LEE 'MEMPHIS' KING
Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist, Lee ‘Memphis’ King will have you rockin’ and rollin’ with his brand new production, dedicated entirely to the King’s ‘Vegas Years’. Backed with an Orchestra and complete with convincing vocals and iconic costumes, you will have no doubt that you’ve been transported back in time to see the man himself.
YORK THEATRE ROYAL
To book, call 01904 623568 or visit www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
// 29TH JUNE-2ND JULY
HEY DUGGEE – THE LIVE THEATRE SHOW
Touring for the first time ever, the nation’s big lovable dog Hey Duggee will be appearing on stage with the squirrels and many more of your favourite characters. Join them all at the clubhouse for fun family entertainment.
// 15TH-30TH JULY SOVEREIGN
Henry VIII is heading to York to ‘sort out’ the northern rebels and exhibit power. Lawyer Matthew Shardlake is tasked with secretly protecting a dangerous prisoner but is puzzled to hear of the murder of a York glazier and
must work against the clock to prevent a thrilling turn of events. An intriguing and mysterious conspiracy. The show will feature a large, local cast and choir.
JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE
To book, call 01904 501935 or visit josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk.
// 25TH-29TH JULY GREASE
After a summer holiday romance, T-Bird Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski are surprised to be reintroduced when they discover they are now attending the same high school. Can they rekindle the romance? This timeless musical will have you tapping your toes and singing along to popular classics such as ‘Summer Nights’, ‘Greased Lighting’ and ‘We Go Together’.
THEATRE @41
To book, visit 41monkgate.co.uk
// 11TH-15TH JULY
THORNTON WILDER’S OUR TOWN
Once described as ‘the greatest American play ever written’, this three-act play, brought to you by Amerrycan Theatre explores the everyday lives of the people of Grovers Corners and brings to light the value of life.
josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey “Hopelessly Devoted to You”, “You’re The One That I Want”, “Sandy” and “Grease” used by arrangement with Robert Stigwood
Originating in the nineteenth century, the humble afternoon tea goes way back. Since then, this little luxury has become a staple of British culture. Served across cafes and restaurants across this city and beyond, afternoon tea is a pastime that, let’s face it, will never go out of style. Created by their inhouse pastry chef, Middletons Hotel offers an afternoon tea daily, served to guests and residents of York alike. Over to Skeldergate, our writer, Emily heads to Middletons Hotel to taste test the experience: Walking up the path to the reception area, the historic building sits nestled snuggly in between flower bushes and shrubbery, and soon we approach a relaxed terrace area. This looks like the perfect summer spot to enjoy a leisurely drink or enjoy an alfresco afternoon in the city. Complete with a tranquil waterfall, the site of Middletons is a site of calm.
My guests and I are greeted and directed to the restaurant area where our table for three is already set. We’re offered tea and coffee by an attentive staff member and as we sit and wait for our refreshments, we take the opportunity to relax in our seats and have a natter. Soon, our hot refreshments arrive, along with a glass of Prosecco. If you’re not a fan of bubbly, Middletons caters to all, offering three-afternoon tea packages: traditional, sparkling, and champagne. However, if you’re celebrating a special occasion, it makes for a lovely extra touch. We’re not left waiting long before the afternoon tea arrives in a caged cake stand. Neatly presented and sumptuous, there’s plenty of food and if you’re an avid afternoon tea fan, then you’ll know that the most difficult part is knowing where on earth to start!? With a selection of traditional finger sandwiches, from cream
cheese, chive, and smoked salmon filling, to cheese and pickle, there’s also a homemade sausage roll encased in buttery pastry. The middle tier is layered with golden fruit scones, clotted cream, and mini jars of jam and the top tier of the stand features a selection of dainty cakes: red velvet, a lemon tart and a mini millefoglie. Left to chat and graze at our leisure, the attentive staff do come to check on us halfway through offering a refill of hot refreshments. Admitting defeat by cake, I eventually ask for the remainder to be boxed up for me to take home, to which the staff kindly oblige. With stomachs fully satisfied and the sun shining, this has certainly been a relaxing way to spend an afternoon in York. Hungry for more? Visit www. middletonsyork.co.uk for bookings and more information.
Seafood Platters now available
