Skipton, the historic market town known as the ‘Gateway to The Dales,’ is a hotspot for tourists seeking the perfect blend of culture and scenery. Amidst the award-winning market, the well-preserved castle, and scenic boat trips along the Leeds-Liverpool canal, Skipton offers a variety of fabulous eateries tucked between high-street favourites and independent shops. Dive into my tried-and-tested list of popular breakfast spots to kick off your day with a delectable morning meal. Whether you crave a sweet treat or a hearty dish, Skipton has the perfect spot to start your day right.
Where to go for Breakfast in Skipton
Old Bridge Cafe
A short stroll from the canal basin and over the bridge will lead you to a small but homely independent cafe that serves, in my opinion, one of the best value breakfasts in Skipton. I visited Old Bridge Cafe just a couple of weeks ago with my husband and 9-year-old son and will certainly be returning. It’s a no-frills, traditional eatery with friendly staff and simple menus but my goodness, the breakfasts are wonderful!
The all-day menu features most breakfast favourites as well as a selection of light bites and main meals, all at very reasonable prices. Opt for a simple bacon or sausage sandwich, relax with a hot coffee and a toasted teacake, or go all out and order one of their large breakfasts. My husband and I paid just £6.95 each for the breakfasts pictured above and they were delicious!
Alexander’s
Served Saturday and Sunday 10 am – 12 pm
Situated at 4-6 High Street, Skipton, this historic building dating back to 1606 underwent a stunning transformation by the Peel Entertainment Group in 2016. Known for its aesthetic charm, Alexander’s offers a diverse range of dining experiences. From globally-inspired small plates and mains for lunch and dinner to an Edwardian-inspired parlour serving homemade cakes, decadent desserts, and a superb afternoon tea, Alexander’s is a culinary delight throughout the day.
Notably, their Brunch menu elevates Alexander’s to one of the best spots for breakfast in Skipton. Request freshly made pastries (£5.50) for a lighter start to your day or indulge in a hearty House Breakfast which comprises all the traditional elements of a Full English (£16). For those with a sweet tooth, the Homemade Waffles and Pancakes (£8.50) are available with a variety of toppings including banana and Nutella. Seeking something a little different to the usual breakfast offerings? The Korean Chicken Waffle (£14) and the Grand Kedegree (£14) should hit the spot.
Kibble Bakery & Coffee House
Among Skipton’s array of independent cafes, Kibble Bakery stands out as a uniquely charming spot. Boasting a chic and contemporary interior, it perfectly complements its simple, modern menu featuring no-frills, natural food. What sets Kibble Bakery apart is its completely dog-friendly atmosphere. Alongside a fantastic menu for humans, Kibble Bakery offers an excellent selection for dogs, with 100% natural treats like homemade ‘pupcakes’ and ‘doggy doughnuts.’
Conveniently located at the bottom of Skipton High Street, Kibble Bakery is an ideal stop for those looking to kickstart their day of sightseeing with a tasty breakfast. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate their distinctive 50% Colombian and 50% Brazilian blend, especially delightful when paired with one of their delicious homemade cakes. The breakfast menu caters to various preferences, featuring everything from topped toasts and full breakfasts to fluffy pancakes and perfect pastries. With beautifully presented, freshly prepared, and delicious offerings, Kibble Bakery is a great place for breakfast in Skipton, whether you’re accompanied by your four-legged companion or not!
Bean Loved
Bean Loved is hailed by many locals as the go-to spot for the best coffee in Skipton, and considering the competition, that’s quite a compliment! While their coffee is undeniably exceptional, the culinary offerings at Bean Loved are equally delightful. Featuring a menu crafted from the finest locally sourced Yorkshire produce, every dish promises a wonderfully fresh experience.
Start your morning right with their breakfast menu which is served until 11:30 am and features a small selection of traditional breakfast options like a Bacon Sandwich (£6.50) and Poached Eggs on Toast (£5). Visit after 11:30 am and you can order one of their mouthwatering brunch dishes such as the Sweet Potato Fritter Stack (£10.50) and the insanely good Reuben Benedict (£12.90). Fancy something sweeter? Their fluffy American pancakes are a firm favourite with us locals!
Coopers Cafe Bar
Coopers Cafe Bar, just a short stroll beyond Skipton’s centre, is well worth the slight detour. This cosy eatery offers a plethora of delectable dishes and homemade cakes throughout the day but has gained particular popularity for its breakfasts.
The staff at this independent cafe bar are known for their super-friendly demeanour, ensuring everyone is greeted with a warm smile and a friendly welcome. The cafe is dog-friendly, with furry companions receiving the same excellent treatment as human customers.
Coopers serves an excellent Full English (£8.95) in addition to lighter options including Poached Egg, Avocado, Feta & Pomegranate on Sourdough (£7.95) and freshly toasted bagels with a variety of filling options. Be sure to check out their daily selection of fresh pastries too as their home-baked treats are always superb!
The Flip Side
Did you know that there’s an independent cafe in Skipton that specialises in pancakes? Situated on Swadford Street, The Flip Side serves crepes with all manner of sweet and savoury fillings and toppings. Stick to traditional sugar and lemon, satisfy that chocolate craving by ordering crepes drizzled with Nutella or opt for one of their savoury options like the Brekkie Crepe (£8.50) or the Creamy Cheese & Leeks version (£8).
Thick and fluffy American-style pancakes are also on the menu if they’re your preference. Again, these are available with a variety of toppings but for breakfast, we recommend ordering the Bacon Stack (£8) and adding extras (50p each) of sausage and egg. For little ones, there’s the popular Nutella Dippy Pot (£4.50) which comprises mini pancakes, a pot of warm Nutella, strawberries, cream and crumble.
Are pancakes not your thing? Fear not, because just a couple of months ago, The Flip Side added breakfast sandwiches to their menu and they’re available all day!
Phoebe’s
18 Coach Street, Skipton BD23 1LH
Phoebe’s is a casual restaurant and bar with chic, stripped-back decor on Coach Street. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s a relatively new offering, having taken over the premises just last year.
The focus here is very much on fresh local produce so the lunch and dinner menus change with the seasons. If visiting for breakfast or brunch, however, there are a number of options which are available all year round, including some excellent gluten-free and dairy-free dishes.
On the menu, you’ll find a traditional Full English for £10.25 (vegetarian version also available for £9.95) plus hot breakfast sandwiches (£4.95) alongside more contemporary offerings such as Smashed Avocado on Sourdough (£9.50), Chorizo Eggs (£8.95), and a delightful Black Pudding dish featuring smoked beans, poached egg, a crispy ham fritter and a whisky glaze (£8.95).
Fancy a sweeter start to the day? Opt for cinnamon and vanilla French toast with mixed berries and fresh yoghurt (£8.50). Delightful!
The Curious Fox
Chapel Hill, Skipton BD23 1NL
A left turn at the top of Skipton’s High Street and a short stroll will bring you to The Curious Fox – a characterful restaurant at the bottom of Chapel Hill with much to offer hungry visitors.
It’s best known for its excellent steaks, globally inspired dinner menus and weekly Tapas night but this gorgeous restaurant with rooms also offers tasty breakfasts from 7:30 am Monday to Saturday and from 8:30 am on a Sunday.
The guys who run The Curious Fox have extensive hospitality experience so both the food and the ambience are consistently good.
The Curious Fox offers a traditional breakfast menu, showcasing quality, locally sourced produce. Start your day with a classic Full English for £12.50 (veggie option available – £11.50), Eggs Benedict (£11), smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on toast (£9), a hot breakfast sandwich (£6.50) of your choosing or a simple bowl of nutty granola with berries and yoghurt (£7.50).
