The Reading Cafe in York

After a lovely winter walk around Rowntree Park, what better than to warm up with a coffee and cake?This is a lovely homely cafe and reading space. Always busy, sometimes seats aren't available, but thats not so bad as you can get drinks and food to go and eat at one of the many spots in the park. The coffee is delicious, the cakes great, and my fave, the sausage rolls are lovely. Service is professional and always very pleasant, even when busy. There's always a good selection of pastries, cakes and sandwiches, as well as other foods. You can sit inside and out on the terrace. It's wheelchair accessible as there is a service ramp so it's open to all. When we go to the park, we don't always use the cafe. However, for a warm drink and a sit down in winter, or a cool drink and ice-cream in summer, it's a winner all year around.

A very nice coffee, quiche/salad and cinnamon whirl in a very attractive setting, served by efficient and cheerful staff. We're better people for the visit.

I like this place. Cozy atmosphere and nice staffs. After a walk in Rowntree park, I take a rest with coffee here.

Lovely little cafe/library Plenty yo choose from great location

Little cafe; Small selection of food but very nice. Cakes and goodies for sale too! Nice coffee and caters well for children. Staff are generally friendly and it's accessible via the long ramp access. There are library books to browse, outside seats and a toilet. It can get quite busy - Friends of Rowntrees Park get a discount in the cafe too!

Really lovely place to enjoy. Food is really nice, loved my hot choc with pumpkin spice and really kind staff. Beautiful surroundings. My favourite place for a chilled lunch, alone or with friends

Lovely walk around lake but could do with some tlc

Wonderful cafe, great location with wonderful views of the lake and ducks. Pleasant environment, would recommend.

Honestly? It felt like sitting and lunching in Ellesmèra! Nature, good food and books (not necessarily in that order)... What more could a nature-loving, foodie nerd ask for?Not pricey. Indoor and outdoor seating options. Lots and lots of books of every genre on the shelves. Free wifi. Go alone or with company. I believe membership for borrowing and contributing books also available.I will certainly be returning here again and again and again. For as long as I will be living in York.

What a great little find. We found this place after a brisk stroll in the park and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Friendly service, great atmosphere, yummy coffee and the best bit was that we had to wait 10 minutes for the scones to finish baking! Delicious!