OpenMaharani
19 High Skellgate, Ripon HG4 1BD, United Kingdom
Welcome to The Wakeman's House Cafe
The Wakeman's House Cafe in Ripon serves homemade lunches and light bites in a friendly, welcoming environment. The historic setting, featuring beams dating back to 1605, adds charm to every meal. Expect delightful homemade cakes, scones, and tray bakes, alongside a solid list of hot and cold drinks, including a selection of wines, beers, and ciders. With prices from £1 to £10, it’s a budget-friendly spot perfect for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon treat. Whether dining solo or with family, the cozy atmosphere and attentive staff ensure every visit is special.
Welcome to The Wakeman's House Cafe, a charming and independently owned establishment located in the heart of Ripon. We pride ourselves on providing a friendly atmosphere where you can enjoy homemade lunches and light bites, complemented by our exquisite selection of cakes, scones, and tray bakes. Indulge in our specialty Cream Teas and Afternoon Teas while savoring a range of hot and cold beverages, including a carefully curated selection of wines, beers, and ciders. With options for dine-in, takeaway, and even kerbside pickup, we cater to everyone—from tourists to locals. Join us for a delightful culinary experience!Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Kerbside pickup
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Free water refills
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Table service
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
The homemade scones are a standout, often touted as light and perfectly baked. Guests frequently rave about the delicious cakes, with choices like passion fruit cheesecake and millionaire's shortbread.
The friendly staff create an inviting atmosphere, making every guest feel welcome, whether they’re locals or travelers exploring Ripon. Many appreciate the good value for money, with hearty portions and reasonable prices; a full meal often costs less than £20. Fans of afternoon tea especially enjoy this cafe for its traditional offerings and cozy setting.
Most Disliked
During busy periods, expect longer waits for tables, which can reach up to half an hour. Some visitors have noted difficulties in navigating the cafe with wheelchairs, though staff are always eager to assist. It may feel cramped at times due to its popularity and historic layout, which not everyone finds appealing. Occasionally, the hustle and bustle can affect the relaxed vibe, making it less suitable for a quiet afternoon.
User Reviews
CB
Caroline B.
I was on holiday on Ripon and decided I didn't want to cook for the few days I was there and opted for a cooked breakfast everyday and a takeaway supper. The Wakeman's House cafe was a brilliant find. The portions were the perfect size and toast that wasn't soggy on a separate plate which was really good. Excellent value for money and the staff were so friendly. It's obviously a locals place and they were very busy. It was the perfect start to my day. I highly recommend the cafe. Thank you to all the team there.
CA
Claire A.
A lovely venue and highly recommend. Visited on a Saturday for an early lunch. It filled up very fast with waits of up to half an hour for tables, so be aware during busy periods. A lovely full menu with lots of choice and a very delicious selection of fresh cakes and scones.
LH
Liz H.
Called Tuesday 26th March - afternoon. Gorgeous, atmospheric little cafe! Built 1605, lots of beams etc. Lovely friendly staff. They seemed to know their regulars but were just as friendly to first time visitors. Quick service. Lots of choice of cake. Very busy. Big turnover of customers. We had passion fruit cheesecake and sticky ginger. Might be tricky for wheelchairs - but I feel the staff would do their best to accommodate anyone. We will definitely return when next in Ripon. Yes, I would definitely recommend 👍🏻
IR
Ian R.
Lovely cafe with a great choice of food, well presented, delicious and very reasonably priced. Good standard menu and daily special board available. We had lunch, both having soup and sandwiches with tea and coffee and all for less than £20. Much nicer to use a cafe like this full of character than a Costa etc.
rs
rosemary s.
We were made to feel very welcome by the friendly staff. The scones lived up to their reputation, being very light and perfectly baked, and the millionaires' shortbread was delicious. The tea was proper Yorkshire tea in a pot, and we thought great value. We would recommend this tea shop to visit if venturing to Ripon.
LF
Libby F.
One of the best Jacket potatoes I’ve ever had! Lovely cosy cafe and friendly staff. Not to mention a great cup of Yorkshire tea!
IB
Ioana B.
We visited Ripon for one day and stopped here for afternoon tea for two, it was very nice (good scone and cake selection, I really liked the courgette and lime cake). We enjoyed the atmosphere and decorations.
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
The Wakeman's House Cafe opens every day of the week, providing a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea. Plan your visit any day, and you'll find the doors welcoming you.
The cafe boasts a diverse menu featuring homemade lunches, light bites, and delicious cakes. Must-tries include their afternoon tea selection, soups, quiches, and a variety of sandwiches and paninis.
Absolutely! The cafe offers a range of beverages, including coffee, specialty teas, soft drinks, and alcoholic options like wine and beer, catering to both adults and kids alike.
Yes, The Wakeman's House Cafe welcomes families and is a great spot for children, offering a cozy atmosphere, kid-friendly menu items, and easy access.
Yes, The Wakeman's House Cafe accepts reservations, making it easy to secure a table, especially for those special moments like afternoon tea with friends or family gatherings.
Why visit The Wakeman's House Cafe
Visiting The Wakeman's House Cafe is a delightful way to experience Ripon’s local flavor. The inviting atmosphere and attentive service set it apart from chain cafes, allowing for a more personal dining experience. Don't miss out on their famous homemade scones, as they're truly worth the hype!
It's an ideal spot for a cozy brunch or a quick bite, especially after exploring the historic sites nearby. Consider making reservations during peak hours, especially on weekends, to secure your spot. Overall, stopping here provides a taste of local hospitality while enjoying homemade treats that will definitely make a lasting impression.
