Best Coffee Shops in York

York is a charming city to visit on a day trip or for a weekend city break, and alongside the historic sights to wander around and revel in the city also has a huge number of coffee shops to explore. Yes, you’ll find the typical chain coffee shops here, but the best coffee shops in York are the independent ones in quirky locations with delicious cakes and brunch options.

Not to be confused with those in the slightly larger city of New York, these are (in my opinion) the best independent coffee shops in York, UK. The quaint and historic city in the north of England, full of modern, cosy brunch spots. They’re not cafés that you’ll be able to sit with a laptop to do a bit of work, instead they’re all perfect spots to enjoy a coffee, bit of brunch or a good book.

The Perky Peacock

If you’re arriving by train in York, the Perky Peacock is probably one of the first independent coffee shops you’ll pass. It’s not immediately obvious from the outside that it’s a coffee shop as it’s housed in a Medieval tower sitting on the edge of the river.

Barker Tower dates back to the 14th century, and has been used as a toll house, dungeon and mortuary among other things. You wouldn’t know it these days, as the charming interior of Perky Peacock is full of exposed wooden beams, comfy chairs and a real warmth across the two floors. It’s a real cosy, quirky spot to enjoy a coffee.

The Perky Peacock was the first coffee shop I actually visited in York, and immediately fell in love. I ventured downstairs after I’d finished my coffee and kicked myself for not heading down there earlier. But, the history of the place, the location, quirkiness and lovely coffee really make it worth a visit.

Location: Barker Tower, Station Road, York (just next to Lendal Bridge).

Brew & Brownie

If you’re a fan of brownies, this place is a must visit for you!

There are two branches of Brew & Brownie very close to each other, one is more for sitting down and having a coffee and brunch, and the other is more geared towards being a take out place. The branch that you can sit and enjoy brunch (or brownies) has a very homely vibe with the warm and comfy decor.

Brew & Brownie was recommended to me by a friend and I actually loved their brownies so much that I went back to their bake store on my last day in York to pick up a few brownies to take home for my family. Needless to say they went down very well and I recommend it to everyone I know that visits York too.

Location: 5 Museum Street, York

Gatehouse Coffee

Located on the old York city walls, Gatehouse Coffee is literally what is says on the label – a coffee shop in an old converted gatehouse. From the outside, it’s hard to imagine how they have so much space, but once you venture up the few steps to the coffee shop, pass through the old, solid wooden door, you’ll be surprised.

There are three floors to Gatehouse Coffee. The first is home to the actual coffee counter where you place orders for drinks and snacks, and there are a couple of tables close by. Heading up one floor is the main seating area, where there are a number of tables, chairs and sofas. The exposed brickwork and lead-lined windows reminds you of the stunning setting as you enjoy your cuppa.

Heading up one more floor using the narrow, spiral stone staircase you’ll find yourself on the rooftop terrace. The tables and chairs don’t feel quite as sturdy as downstairs, but it’s a lovely space to check out the walls that stretch from the gatehouse, and is perfect for the sunshine – coffee combo.

The stairs are a little tricky navigating back down from the rooftop, just because of the need to duck and descend at the same time, so just something to be aware of if you have mobility or balance issues.

Location: Walmgate Bar, York

Sophie’s

Sophie’s is one of the coffee shops located on Lendal Bridge, in an old building that from the outside looks like it doesn’t fit much in. Once you step through the door though, the compact coffee shop is beyond charming. It has the window seat of dreams looking through the lead-paned windows over the river, but there are also a few other tables to choose from plus a larger table in a private area in the back and a spacious outdoor seating area.

The vibe in Sophie’s is very calming and feels like a community hub with the cocktails and book club signs up. The coffee was lovely and the menu offers a range of pastries and sandwiches but the croissant deserves a special mention…I have never had such defined flaky layers in a croissant and I would have one for breakfast every day if I could!

Location: Station Road, York (accessed via Lendal Bridge)

Quirky cafe

In a similar style building as Sophie’s, Quirky Cafe is exactly what it says on the label: quirky! From the vibrant wallpaper, to the decor full of character, a visit to Quirky Cafe will give you plenty to look at and check out. It’s owned by the same people that run The Perky Peacock on the other side of the bridge, so it has a similar welcoming vibe to the place.

There’s also an outdoor seating area that is perfect for sunny days in York living the coffee in sunshine life, my favourite!

Location: Lendal Bridge, York

Drift-In York

There are two branches of Drift-In York in the city centre. They’re round the corner from each other, with the larger one having more of a cafe feel to it with a surf vibe, and the smaller one closer to the river being much more intimate and snug, still with a quirky vibe.

You can grab a coffee or a meal at these cafes, though the smaller cafe is much more a place you’d have brunch/lunch than just for a coffee and chill. The food was delicious, the surroundings full of character and all at a reasonable price. I particularly loved the recycled cinema seating and the puppy picture wall!

Location: Corner of High Ousegate and Nessgate, or you can find the smaller branch of Drift-In York on the corner of Cumberland Street and Clifford Street.