The Perky Peacock

The position of this Cafe next to Lendal Bridge and it's close proximity to the York Minster presents you with a first view of the medieval delights that await you just a short walk over the bridge. The coffee was not up to my personal preference however. I believe coffee should be made with full fat milk and alternatives used only when you request them. As a consequence the coffee lacked body and the flavours I expected.

This unique little café is hidden away in a medieval toll tower below Lendal Bridge. Could easily have walked by without noticing it, but happily a sign directed me down a flight of steps (with a handrail) to the riverbank, and then another flight led me up into the café (there's no wheelchair access). There are a few tables outside, and also some in the haunted dungeon downstairs! The café's interior, with its stunning timbered ceiling, is small and felt like a cosy living room with comfy old chairs and sofa draped with cushions and throws, Tiffany lamps, and knick-knacks of all kinds. The two young women behind the bar were super friendly, welcoming and chatty, and took a genuine interest in hearing where I was from, and how I was spending my time in York. There's a free water dispenser. They do sandwiches and light bites here as well as cakes and pastries. Great selection of teas and coffees, as well as alcoholic drinks. I had a large slice of caramel cake and a mocha, and they were both delicious! No toilets here, but there are some a few minutes walk away at the railway station. Dog friendly and quiet, this is a lovely little place to relax and get away from it all, just a stone's throw from the city centre.

One of our favourites in York. Nice location , next to River Rouse, next to Lendal Bridge, if you walk from York train station, you will not miss it, just look down before you walk across the Lendal Bridge. It’s a bit quirky, but very nice. It is one of the towers on Lendal bridge, it doesn’t have any toilet because of it. It’s the downside. Just go to the bar, order your coffee or drinks, but find a chair to sit , then enjoy the view of River Ouse.

This is the kind of café I love! It's located in an old medieval tower of York's city defences, once used to bar the river with a massive chain. Now it's filled with mismatched furniture, bits and bobs and a cosy atmosphere. The staff is lovely and the same can be said about both the coffee and the porridge. I really liked that honey, raisins and cinnamon for the latter were served separately so I could add them to taste! There's limited seating inside, but on a sunny day the café sprawls out onto the riverside quay with lots of outdoor tables.

If you’re an introvert, this quiet hideout is a perfect place to recuperate from the hustle-bustle out there in a tourist town. Indoor seating is limited though to about 4 parties so cross your fingers. There was plenty of space around 1pm on a weekday. Pate on toast was perfect, with a glass of red wine.

10/10 would recommend. The setting alone makes it unmissable - cosy rooms in an old tower right by the river. Staff were lovely and great pastries & small meals. I had the soup of the day & my partner had a sausage roll - both were delicious. Perfect to stop for brunch, lunch or an afternoon snack while you're exploring York.

What a gem of a find. Lovely friendly welcome. Dog friendly in the dungeon! We had a coffee, and it's not often I take a sip of coffee and comment... but it's one of the best cuppas I've had. The dogs enjoyed a tub of doggie friendly ice cream. If you are in York, this is a must to visit. Quirky, friendly, historic, homemade food, dog friendly and great coffee ☕️ 🐾

By chance saw the sign and thought it was closed, it was not. What a charm of a place, absolutely love the atmosphere which evokes that 700 year old feel. Had a latte in the dungeon and today got to sit upstairs in the watch tower. If you are in to Game of thrones, or Vikings, it’s perfect. Ellie is a gem and the owners Richard and Sheryl are pleasant too, I think I was offered a job but I’m too busy enjoying all the charms of York!!