The Little Way Cafe

3 Castle Yard, Knaresborough HG5 8AS, United Kingdom
$$$ Cafe
(27 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

The Little Way Cafe in Knaresborough offers a cozy, almost homely spot ideal for anyone looking to settle in with a good pot of tea or a simple, well-made lunch. Tucked at 3 Castle Yard, this small café carries an inviting charm that feels familiar — like stepping into a friend’s living room rather than a commercial space. It’s the kind of place where local regulars gather, sharing a sofa and lively conversations, especially on quiet, rainy days.

The menu leans into comforting staples with homemade touches, featuring toasted sandwiches, warm scones, hot porridge with customizable toppings, and well-loved classics such as the dippy egg with soldiers. Their drink selection includes Yorkshire tea, strong coffee, and hot chocolate, all served without fuss but with care, matching the café’s unpretentious vibe.

Visitors often pop in for a casual catch-up, a mid-morning tea break, or a light lunch. While there aren’t many vegan or gluten-free options at present, the staff have been known to accommodate special requests, making it a flexible spot for those with dietary considerations. Sunny days invite visitors to take advantage of the outdoor seating, which catches the warmth and adds a gentle buzz from the passing castle yard foot traffic.

The café also welcomes dogs, which is a notable plus in a town like Knaresborough, adding to the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Prices are reasonable, contributing to a down-to-earth community feel rather than a touristy or upscale café experience.

Overall, The Little Way Cafe suits locals and travelers alike who seek a slow moment out where the focus is on straightforward, homemade food, straightforward service, and an intimate, lived-in atmosphere. Mornings and early afternoons on sunny days are particularly enjoyable times to visit, though the snug interior becomes an equally appealing refuge once the weather turns. Whether dropping by for a single cookie or settling in for lunch, the café carries the rhythms of everyday life in a small Yorkshire town.

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
What they serve
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Best for
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

27 Reviews
Ian Knights

28 Dec 2025

We popped in here recently for a pot of tea and a cheese scone served with loads of butter! It had just started to rain so we squeezed inside this tiny establishment. It was a little like being in your front room at home. Three middle aged ladies had bagged the sofa and engaged in loud chattering about an upcoming birthday. One of these ladies also shared her conversation as she chatted loudly on her Smartphone to a gentleman who we learned was a new lover... Given the cosiness of this place we found ourselves joining in to their conversation which added a certain "je ne sais quoi" to the whole atmosphere. Quite unique really.

Andrew Watts

20 Dec 2025

What a lovely cafe, friendly, welcoming and full of character. It's popular with locals which is always a good sign. There weren't any vegan options on the menu, but they were very happy to make something for me. There was homemade soup and crusty bread, so I had that and it was delicious. Good pot of green tea too. The price was very reasonable. They had a good selection of cakes and scones which were probably homemade and looked delicious. Dog friendly too. I'll definitely go there again.

Pauline Knott

15 Nov 2025

We visited here for cake and drinks at the weekend and it was lovely. We sat outside in the sunshine but the indoors has been done out really nicely and I also noticed it was dog friendly which is a plus point in Knaresborough! The owners were very friendly and welcoming. A couple of gluten free cake options in the future would be really good. Good to see a cafe where everything is home made and fresh. A most welcome addition to our lovely town.

Jill Savory

06 Nov 2025

We called at this cafe today . Service and food where amazing . We loved it , we will definitely go again when we are in Knaresborough . They go above and beyond

Andrew Clark

30 Oct 2025

Lovely food in a lovely setting. Staff very friendly and lunch was good value. Would definitely visit again if in Knaresborough

Sue

10 Oct 2025

Found this quaint tearoom on our walk around. Sat outside and we had coffee and a lovely scone with cream . Man and woman were extremely happy and friendly . Very chatty and what we had was lovely .

Cici Carreira

22 Sep 2025

I had a hot chocolate and it was absolutely delicious — rich, creamy, and comforting. The café has a lovely, cosy atmosphere and friendly staff. A perfect place to relax.

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