If you have ever spent a Saturday morning watching the famously long queue stretch down the street outside Bettys, you will know that getting a table can often be a test of patience. In a move that feels like a real milestone for the Yorkshire icon, that is all about to change.
For the first time, Bettys has announced it will introduce daytime reservations at its Ilkley café and at The Spindler Gallery in Harrogate. This is a significant shift for the family-owned business, which has traditionally operated on a walk-in basis for its main café service.
Nicky Sellers, Director of Operations at Bettys, explained that the move is all about making the experience more accessible for everyone:
“This is a milestone for Bettys and reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing the guest experience while preserving the timeless charm that has made Bettys a Yorkshire institution. We realise that the queue can be a barrier for some customers and we want to be able to offer everyone the Bettys experience that suits them best.”
In Harrogate, the new booking system applies to The Spindler Gallery, located on the café’s lower level. It is a stunning spot that houses the world’s largest single collection of Spindler marquetry – essentially “paintings in wood” made from intricate veneers. The collection was started by Bettys’ founder, Frederick Belmont, in the early 1930s and remains one of the town’s most impressive cultural gems.
Over in Ilkley, the café is also opening up its diary for daytime bookings. This site has a rich history dating back to 1896 and is home to the massive La Chasse (‘The Hunt’) marquetry panel, which is the largest ever produced by the Spindler studio. Following a 2016 refurbishment, the café features hand-carved sheaves of corn by local artisans.
Whether you are a local who has been avoiding the queues or a visitor planning a special trip, this change means you can finally guarantee your spot for a Fat Rascal or a signature blend without the wait. These new daytime slots sit alongside the existing reservation options for Evening Dining and the traditional Afternoon Tea.
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