Eating out with kids can sometimes be something of a challenge (understatement of the year!) There are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants in the York area which really do welcome children and families so I’ve compiled a list of them here.
These places are not all ‘exclusively’ for families or children but they have all shown thoughtful touches or great facilities (things like pushchair access, changing facilities, highchairs and so on)
At York Mumbler we are always looking to ‘spread the word’ if we find out about any little gems, so if you know of a pub, restaurant or café that should be included in this listing then please contact us here.
Tucked away behind bustling Goodramgate lies one of York’s true hidden treasures. Once the dining hall of the medieval Vicars Choral of York Minster, Bedern Hall is now open to share stories from an eclectic mix of over 700 years of history.
From songmen to squirrels, priests to pork pies, you can discover them all in our hidden medieval hall!
Learn about the lives of the Vicars and during your visit see the things the archaeologists discovered.
View our amazing scissors beamed roof – the reason the Hall became a Listed Building and was saved from demolition.
Join Stanley the Squirrel on our kids activity trail
Learn about Guild life in the City
Visit our Cafe. Our courtyard cafe and covered garden terrace provide tranquility in the heart of the City. We also indoor seating. Enjoy coffee and cake or a glass of wine with a savoury treat.
From 2nd March
Open every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 4pm
Admission to hall: Adults £3.50. Children £1.50
Entry cafe free
Free admission to the Hall if you spend £10 or more in the cafe in a single transaction.
We will be closed on the following dates for private events: May 29th; July 1, 9, 10, 17, 24; August 6, 14, 21, 26, 28; September 3, 4, 18, 25; October 2, 16, 23, 30; November 6; December 2, 18
Come and visit our Cupcakery where we hold cupcake decorating tea parties, make birthday cakes to order, and serve afternoon tea (booking required).
We are super child friendly and offer mini hot chocolates, pink milk and mini cupcakes for the little people! We also have a changing table, high chairs and are breast-feeding friendly too.
We’re open 10am-5pm from Monday to Saturday and 11am-5pm on Sundays. Afternoon tea is just £12.50 per person
This café is a welcoming open place for you to come and enjoy a good cup of tea or fair trade coffee, as well as offering a fantastic range of sandwiches and homemade cakes to cater for all tastes. You can sit and read the daily paper, choose a book and have free use of our wi-fi whilst enjoying the vibrant ambiance of the building. We offer a friendly and relaxing environment that is suitable for all ages.
Opening times Monday to Sunday, 9am-4pm (Closed on Bank Holidays).
Please note that the cafe finishes serving hot food half an hour before these closing times.
We are a small shop and café based on Gillygate in York. Set in the heart of the minster quarter and sitting underneath the historic city walls, Love Cheese is a destination for local and tourist foodies. Our Selection of Continental, British and Yorkshire cheeses have been specially picked to cater for all. From Mild to Strong, Young to Mature, Hard to Soft, we will have something for everyone.
Cheese Tasting Events
Try a completely unique experience, and enjoy the finer things in life with our range of cheese tasting events.
The Speakcheesey & Secret Garden
We have spent time tentatively selecting the irresistible selection of cheeseboards from soft and smelly to blended and flavoured, we have something for every palette. Fancy something to warm you up? Our toasties come in a range of flavours from Goat’s cheese, balsamic and sun-dried tomatoes to Tallegio and pesto toastie and we mustn’t forget about the popular combination of sweet chilli and halloumi. All toasties are loaded and filled to the brim!
A light-bite can be just as satisfying at Love Cheese, Take home a bit of Love Cheese by stopping at our deli counter and cheese fridge and make your own cheese board at home, with our Olives of the Day and Cheese of the Month
Pairings Wine Bar is an award-winning, independent wine bar run by sisters, Kelly & Kate, who are passionate about pairing wine and food.
Pairings is a relaxed table service bar with an appreciation for fine wines, beer, whisky, gin and cocktails. Offering small plates and sharing boards, featuring the absolute best in locally sourced charcuterie, cheese, fish and desserts.
They offer a range of private wine and gin tasting experiences available at a time to suit you. Prices start at £30 per person for The Fine Wine Experience, a bespoke two hour tasting hosted by one of their in-house Sommeliers where you taste five fine wines, or for the true Pairings experience accompany your wines with the Sommelier’s suggested food pairings. Further information can be found here.
For those who would rather choose their own drinks, they also offer local beers, gins and cocktails to enjoy alongside sharing boards and platters featuring the absolute best in locally sourced charcuterie and artisan cheese. Visit their website for the latest Food & Drinks menu. Gift vouchers alsoavailable.
Plush Café is the most instagrammable café in York!
Located on Stonegate, this independent family-run business offers a delicious brunch and lunch menu (with great vegan and gluten-free options!), as well as coffee, tea, cakes, ice-cream, freakshakes and more for both sit in and takeaway.
They have 3 themed dining rooms – the gorgeous Garden Room with flowers all over the walls and swings for seats, the luxurious Bohemian Room full of floor cushions and low tables, and the eccentric Neon Room, which is also dog friendly.
Plush has some amazing and unusual ice-cream flavours to choose from. Go crazy with a bright and colourful ice-cream selection on a rainbow cone or choose the Black Coconut ice-cream with a black cone and wafer for something really different!
While you’re there, have a look at the fab and fun homeware on offer in the Plush Boutique Store. Who doesn’t want flamingo salt and pepper shakers or a teapot shaped like a cat!?
Don’t forget to show the Plush Team this Mumbler post to get a free Electric Lemonade worth £2.95 when you spend £10.
An Italian deli with a difference offering the very best in Italian and Yorkshire produce sourced from the finest independent producers.
Offering everything from authentic antipasti, homemade pasta, wine and Italian gelato to speciality coffee, real hot chocolate and pastries all served either to eat in their welcoming restaurant or to takeaway and also offering a full deli counter for fresh Italian meats, cheese and olives to take home.
As well as offering mouth-watering Italian and Yorkshire produce, The Larder Club is a social enterprise supporting the rehabilitation of women offenders and working closely alongside HMP Askham Grange, funding work placements and employment opportunities for women offenders.
The Larder Club also offers barista skills training for women offenders, equipping them with the art of creating great speciality coffee, a skill that can help them build a new future.
Sometimes we all need a little TLC… from offering a welcoming space to treat yourself, through to working with ethical suppliers and supporting others in need, extending a little TLC is what The Larder Club is all about.
Proud Chocolate Makers of York. At York Cocoa Works we source cocoa beans from farms and communities around the world and hand craft a range of innovative and fine flavour chocolates. Join us at our Manufactory, on Castlegate, for a range of family friendly chocolate indulgences and learning experiences.
Chocolate-filled Easter
Join us at York Cocoa Works for some hands-on chocolate fun including crafting your very own Chocolate Lollipop or Chocolate Bar. For those looking to try their hand at becoming master chocolatiers, book onto our Easter Egg Masterclass and create your very own Easter masterpiece.
York Chocolate Festival
This Easter sees the return of York Chocolate Festival! Between 14th-18th April, join us on St Sampson’s Square to make and decorate your own Easter Egg or Bunny treat!
Chocolate Gifts online
Take a look at our new Easter Collection on our website, featuring a range of handmade chocolate eggs and hampers which make the perfect locally made gift for your loved ones this Easter.
Ambiente boasts two unique tapas restaurants within the city walls. At Ambiente Fossgate, you’ll find a theatre kitchen and spacious ground floor area with room for the whole family and pushchairs. Ambiente Goodramgate, housed in a listed Georgian building with restaurant and bar area, is ideal for more intimate family meals.
14 Goodramgate,York,YO1 7LQ and 31 Fossgate, York, YO1 9TA T: 01904 689784
Whether looking for a cosy table for two, or celebrating with friends and family, Bill’s has something for everyone. Open all day and into the night, we’re well-known for our legendary breakfasts, veg-centric lunches, and a la carte dinners. Families are warmly welcomed with plenty of space for pushchairs.
Cafe serving both breakfast and brunch with a variety of coffee, loose leaf teas and cakes. Chocolate survival boxes, coffee and Afternoon teas available for collection and delivery. Bakeshop open Monday-Sunday 9-4 and Cafe open Monday-Sunday 9:30-4.
Offers a variety of sandwiches, paninis and jacket potatoes as well as serving breakfast and cakes. Still taking walk-ins where possible but calling and booking advised.
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant, world-class destination York – almost in the shadows of York Minster – we are a fun and friendly gathering place for locals and tourists. You will savour the rich flavours of authentic, perfectly prepared cuisine from Italy.
Open for coffee, hot chocolate, milkshakes and lots of sweet treats. We also do brunch & lunch and we are licensed. We also have limited outdoor seating.
A small family run cafe that operates from their converted horsebox, located in the Shambles Market, York. They offer a family-friendly menu with lots of homemade cakes and savouries available to take away. They pride themselves on their coffee.
Mention Mumbler for 15% off
5 Silver Street, Shambles Market, York T: 07494 193858
Geek Retreat is a Geek Culture and Tabletop game Retailer, café, and Events hub rolled into one. We have a selection of ‘Free to Play’ games as well as games on the shelves. We aim to be a safe space for people to meet. Baby changing facilities are available. Disability friendly.
3 Low Ousegate, York, YO1 9QX Contact us: 01904 651388
Goji Cafe’s food is vegetarian, wholesome, nutritious and lovingly prepared from start to finish with many vegan options. We are passionate about the quality of our dishes.
Kennedy’s prides itself on a relaxed and friendly service complimented by freshly prepared food. You can book online now, or if a spontaneous chilled beverage is more your vibe, we have also saved plenty of space for walk-ins as well.
Wednesday – Friday, 12pm – late
Saturday – Sunday 10am – late
Kennedys, Little Stonegate, York Y01 8AX T: 01904 620222
We are an independent artisan street food crêperie, specializing in Breton galettes & traditional crêpes. Our galettes are made from buckwheat flour, they are savory and gluten free. We source our products locally. We are open everyday from 10:00-16:00.
Las Iguanas York is a Latin American Bar & Restaurant. We bring a taste of South America alongside delicious drinks for the ultimate experience. There are vegan and vegetarian menus available.
Serving a contemporary European menu rooted in classical French techniques. Delivering a 3-course meal for two and a bottle of wine for £40. Check Facebook for their menu. Call between 10am-4pm to place your order. The menu includes dishes made using ingredients from our smaller, local suppliers so we can support them through this tough time. 10% discount to NHS workers.
LICC is excited to be back in business and will be operating daily from 10am-6pm. They are adhering to strict social distancing guidelines by only allowing 2 people in the shop at a time, but will make exceptions for small babies & children of course.
Daily specials and deals are on their Instagram stories so stay tuned! They are serving ice cream, hot & cold takeaway drinks, ice cream sandwiches, milkshakes & takeaway tubs/pots. Gift vouchers are also available for purchase. With over 400 flavours and 24 on display every day, there is something for everyone to indulge in!
Nestled between York Minster and Monk Bar “Little Italy” was established by owners Andrea & Mandy Gaias in January 1992, and as a result of endless dedication have built up an enviable reputation as one of York’s finest Italian restaurants offering gourmet cuisine to satisfy the most discerning tastes.
Established in 1987, Mamma Mia has a long-standing reputation for excellent and authentic Italian food, freshly prepared in our kitchens. The restaurant seats up to 70 people, and has a lovely secluded patio area seating an extra 40.
Home to York’s entrepreneurs for 660 years – and counting. Half price admission for York residents and free for under 16’s, come and explore its fascinating tales and awe-inspiring architecture. Also enjoy a tasty drink, freshly baked cakes & snacks at the coffee house.
We serve a variety of food from traditional fish and chips, to vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options that are available. Whether you’re looking to grab a quick meal or take your time eating with friends or family, we have something for everyone. Delivery is available via Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats.
Afro-Portuguese chain restaurant serving flame-grilled chicken in spicy chilli sauce and more, including vegan and vegetarian options. We are a 1-min walk from the Coppergate Shopping Centre.
Vangarde Shopping Park, Vangarde Way, Huntington, North Yorkshire, YO32 9AE T: 01904 621563
12 High Ousegate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 8RZ T: 01904 679 103
Breakfast, Brunch & Lunch Restaurant. Open 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday & 10am-4pm Sunday. Plenty of vegan/vegan options and all dishes on main menu can be made GF on request.
‘Osborne’s @68 on Gillygate – lovely people, great coffee, and the cakes are delicious and enormous!!’
Panda Mami buffet restaurant chain has landed in York. Our chefs prepare over 150 authentic dishes from around the world every day and the Live Cooking Stations provide fabulous taste and entertainment. We provide a casual dining experience like no other, offering a balanced choice of delicious food, giving our guests added value at a fixed price, all within luxurious surroundings.
Open for sit in or takeaway of delicious freshly baked scones, cakes and cream teas. Coffee, tea, soft drinks and alcohol also available. Afternoon tea and cream tea deliveries are also offered.
Italy’s diverse cooking is the heart and soul of Piccolino. We visit the regions, meet the producers and are committed to sourcing the best quality ingredients.
Mention Mumbler for 10% off when you prebook.
Piccolino 18 Bridge St, York, YO1 6DA T: 01904 521155
Famous for its Italian classics, from bubbling pizzas and scrumptious pasta to traditional bruschetta and classic Tiramisu, Prezzo bring you a touch of Italy to the UK! Buon appetito!
‘Relaxed and very welcoming. My kids love Italian. Always check their website for offers – you can often get 40% off!!!’
Revolution York is a stunning iconic building that can host a wide range of occasions.
In our spacious venue we have two large areas upstairs which have the added luxury of two private bars, exclusive restrooms and a unique DJ booth. Downstairs boasts a large main bar and also our white bar.
Quality dining is no small matter. In fact, a meal with us is cause for celebration. For massive smiles and heaps of enjoyment. For making memories that are worth keeping forever. Take a seat, and get ready to celebrate. It all starts with incredible food that’s big on flavour.
Established in 2004 in the former Francois Restaurant Bistro on Castlegate in York. It specialises in rustic French cooking in a busy, vibrant upbeat Bistro atmosphere, offering a large and varied selection of meat and fish dishes cooked traditionally, using local products.
A sandwich shop specialising in smoked-in-house pulled pork, beef pastrami and daily street food specials. Everything is made from scratch each morning.
Sotano is an independent bar and restaurant in York serving Mediterranean tapas plates and classically-inspired cocktails. Restaurant open from 12pm -late Wednesday – Sunday.
Community project and social destination supporting independent businesses. Inside you’ll find street food vendors, bars, retailers, beauty, holistic therapy, a co-working hub, arts studio and events space. We are family friendly and dogs are welcome.
Lift available for accessibility. Opening times: Tuesday to Thursday: 12pm-10.30pm
Open 8am-6pm every day at either of our York locations with a wide range of seasonal coffee, teas as well as breakfast and lunch options and cold drinks.
45 Fossgate, York YO1 9TF/21 Lendal, York YO1 8AQ T: 01904 633998
Spurriergate is open for refreshments and meet-ups Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 am to 2.30pm. We have free Friendly WiFi, a soft play area and a warm welcome. Come and meet your friends and make some new ones!
The Spurriergate Centre, St Michael’s Church, Spurriergate, York, YO1 9QR T: 01904 629393
Tabanco by Ambiente is inspired by Southern Spain’s Tabanco bars; informal tapas bars where you can stop for solo visit for a quick nibble or where you can dwell a little longer over tapas with friends and family. With a spacious ground floor area, there is room for the whole family as well as push chairs. For those sunny days, our courtyard is the perfect place to embrace the sun over some alfresco tapas.
Dine at The Grand, York’s only five-star hotel, and enjoy locally sourced fresh food created by expert chefs. The Rise offers lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea for all ages. Private Bookings are also available.
The Grand, Station Rise, York, YO1 6GD T: 01904 380038
We take pride in creating an exclusive Thai, fine dining experience. Our chefs use fresh ingredients, spices, and herbs to create textures, flavours, and aromas on every single dish. Food delivery is available and we are open Tuesday to Sunday from 5 – 9 pm.
An independent 42 seat casual dining restaurant housed in a restored listed building on Micklegate. Fantastic for a date night but also children are more than welcome, we produce good food for the little ones.
Japanese inspired restaurant, serving vegetarian and vegan options including Korean dishes, donburi and teppanyaki bowls. There are two restaurants you can visit in York.
Our Italian restaurant serves tasty, authentic dishes from pizza, pasta and risotto to salads and indulgent desserts – all in a uniquely designed restaurant. Our Italian menu also includes Vegan and Vegetarian options and we also offer takeaway on Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats.
