Afternoon Tea @ The Garden Room

Charming Afternoon Tea Experience in Central York

Afternoon Tea @ The Garden Room offers a serene and stylish escape in the heart of York. Located at the historic Station Rd, this elegant tea lounge is nestled within the Principal York hotel, just a short stroll from many of the city’s top live music venues. With its Victorian architecture, plush interiors, and views over manicured gardens, it’s the perfect spot for a refined pre-show bite or a relaxing post-concert wind-down.

The menu features a classic British afternoon tea with delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and exquisite pastries, all presented with refined flair. A range of specialty teas and optional Champagne upgrades make it a luxurious yet approachable option for concert-goers looking to elevate their night out.

Why Concert-goers love it

Its location is ideal—just steps from the train station and close to popular music venues, making it a convenient and classy choice before an evening show. The peaceful atmosphere offers a welcome contrast to the high-energy buzz of a concert night, and the thoughtful service ensures you're in and out in time for doors opening. With bookings available for early afternoon, it's great for those wanting a light, elegant meal before the music starts.

Who this Restaurant is great for

• Couples making a romantic weekend of it
• Solo travelers treating themselves to a touch of luxury
• Groups of friends looking for a relaxed, stylish meet-up spot
• Fans wanting a calm, picturesque pre-show experience
• Budget-conscious music lovers who still want something special (go for the Classic Afternoon Tea option)

What People Say

Guests on TripAdvisor and OpenTable often rave about the beautiful garden views, the elegantly presented food, and the attentive staff. Many describe it as a “hidden gem” and mention that it’s a great way to feel pampered before a big event. The scones and clotted cream are particular favorites, and the setting has been called “perfectly peaceful” by reviewers looking to escape the city bustle.

Areas for Improvement

Some guests have mentioned that service can be a bit slow during peak times, so if you're on a tight concert schedule, be sure to let the staff know when you're seated. Also, while the experience is luxurious, the price point reflects that—so it may not suit those on a very tight budget.

The Bottom Line

If you're looking for a quiet, elegant spot to unwind before the show, Afternoon Tea @ The Garden Room offers a memorable start to your concert night in York.