The Best Scones in York? Parlormade Scone House in Historic The Shambles

Parlormade Scone House

1, Little Shambles, York YO1 7LY, UK

​Opening Hours:

​Monday: 10:00 - 17:00

​Tuesday: Closed

​Wednesday: Closed

​Thursday: 10:00 - 17:00

​Friday: 10:00 - 17:00

​Saturday: 10:00 - 17:00

​Sunday: 10:00 - 16:30

​Nestled right beside the historic Shambles and close to the local market in York, Parlormade Scone House is a charming, intimate café set within a historic old building. Featuring a cozy layout across multiple upper floors with narrow stairs, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that captures authentic local café culture.

​The bakery specializes in freshly baked, handmade scones that strike the perfect balance—boasting a lightly crisp, crumbly exterior while remaining wonderfully soft, moist, and airy on the inside. Visitors highly recommend pairing their signature fruit scones with classic clotted cream and rich fruit jam for an exceptional treat. Complementing the baked goods is their expertly brewed coffee, including smooth lattes that make for a comforting companion as you explore the historic streets of York.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

​Situated in the very heart of medieval York, Parlormade Scone House is surrounded by rich history, unique shopping streets, and iconic landmarks:

​The Shambles (1-minute walk): Right on your doorstep, this famous medieval cobbled street with overhanging timber-framed buildings feels like stepping back in time (and is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans).

​Shambles Market (1-minute walk): Located just behind the café, a vibrant open-air market featuring local food vendors, crafts, flowers, and unique gifts.

​York Minster (5-minute walk): One of the largest and most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, renowned for its incredible medieval stained glass windows and grand architecture.

​JORVIK Viking Centre (3-minute walk): Step back to 10th-century York to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a reconstructed Viking city based on real archaeological discoveries.

​Clifford’s Tower (6-minute walk): The iconic remaining structure of York Castle, perched high on a mound and offering sweeping panoramic views across the entire city.

​Visitor Tips

​Expect a Queue: Because the shop is small and very popular, you may need to wait in line outside before getting a table.

​Dine-In vs. Takeaway: If the dine-in queue is too long, you can choose the takeaway option to save time and enjoy your treats on the go.

​Seating Arrangement: Seating is mainly available on the upper floors, which involves walking up and down narrow stairs.

​Pet Friendly: The café welcomes pets, and staff are known to be very fond of dogs visiting with their owners.