Kelly Gilmour-Grassam's Posts

Romantic Getaways in the UK

You don’t need to go jetsetting around the world to have a romantic weekend away with someone special. Online dating is renowned for being a great way to meet the perfect match, but once you move past the online flirting and first date then you’ll want to waste no time in getting closer with free dating in the UK. So to help take your relationship to the next level, why not plan a show-stopping idea for a romantic (/dirty) weekend away? Here are 5 top ideas around the country.

 

1. The Lake District

If it was good enough for the romantic poets then it’s good enough for our FreeAndSingle community. The Lake District is a beautiful place for a weekend away, with pretty cottages, cool camping spots and even glamping offering plenty of places to stay with that sizzling new partner. Long walks with a pub at the end are a great way to get to know one another if you’re the down-to-earth sort.

 

2. London

On the other hand, if bright lights and city sights get you more excited, then London really is an impressive destination for a weekend away. Stay in a swanky hotel and see a show on the West End… then continue the evening with cocktails at the Shard or a night on the town. Oh, and during the day you’ll be spoilt for choice with tourist attractions and cafes!

 

3. Norfolk Broads

For something a bit quirky, a weekend on a long boat in the Norfolk Broads is a really unique date idea with plenty to see and do. Explore the waterways of this stunning county and get cosy in your boat on an evening, as you spend some time alone on the waters getting to know one another. And you’re guaranteed to have a laugh trying to moor up and board the boat after a drink or two.

 

4. Cornwall

Make waves with your date by heading away for a weekend on the sunny coast of Cornwall. This gorgeous coastline is great for any thrill-seekers and sporty couples who love being out on the water, and when the sun sets you’ll find plenty of good pubs, bars and places to stay.


5. Stratford-Upon-Avon 

Take a step back in time and relax in the beautiful market town of Stratford-Upon-Avon. The birthplace of Shakespeare has long been renowned as a hotspot for romantic getaways in the UK, and you can easily spend the weekend rowing on the river, dining in historic buildings and learning a little history along the way. Memorise some Shakespeare and impress them with your knowledge when you arrive!

 

After the initial excitement and mystery of flirting with someone online and setting up that big first date, online dating can often lead to sweet success stories. So if you’re starting to get serious with a man or woman who you’ve met in the FreeAndSingle community, why not think about whisking them away for the weekend to one of these romantic getaways in the UK?

 

Photo Credit: Katharine Hunter

Celebrity Dating

We might pretend we don’t care and that we’re above celebrity gossip… and fair enough a few of you won’t. However if the majority of us are honest, we can’t resist finding out the latest Hollywood news of who’s dating who and what’s happening in the world of the A-listers. That’s why every now and then we’ll be giving you the low down on the newest gossip in the celebrity world, to get you excited about what Cupid might have in store for you.

 

Age Gap Ahoy

If you read our blog post last week about whether age gaps matter when it comes to free dating and relationships, then the news that Ray Donovan star Steven Bauer, aged, 53, is dating Lydia Loudon, aged 18, will probably receive a mixed opinion. Although being 35 years older than Lydia he could feasibly be her Grandad, we’re not judging when it comes to love, fun and chemistry. And if they’re happy, then that’s all that matters, right?

 

Divorced Celebrities Back on the Dating Scene

Proof that you can soon get back on the dating scene if you’ve been through a divorce (or if you’re Gwyneth Paltrow anyway), the news this week that Gwyneth has been dating Glee creator Brad Falchuk will put a smile on the face of any divorcees. Having announced her separation from Coldplay star Chris Martin only a few months ago in March, it’s good to know that she’s made a speedy recovery with someone who is sure to give her ‘glee’.

 

Cinderella Story

It hasn’t taken long for someone to woo Prince Charming (aka Harry) only a few months after he came out of a two year relationship. And we can probably all leave our jealousy aside in the knowledge that he is currently dating a charity worker. True, Camilla Thurlow may have been a former Miss Edinburgh, but it’s great inspiration for anyone who’s looking for their own prince charming, or a wealthy dating opportunity. You just have to be in the right place at the right time… or shall we say online at the right time, FreeAndSingle members?

 

Bisexual Dating?

Rumours are flying around Hollywood this week that after splitting with Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez and Cara Delevigne are now seeing each other. Although nothing has been confirmed yet, the two certainly seemed happy on their holiday in St Tropez. And after a break up, doesn’t everyone need a bit of casual dating to revamp their love life? Keep an eye on this piece of news to develop.
Celebrity dating gossip toes a very thin line between rumour and reality, and who know what goes on behind the scenes in Hollywood? However it’s clear that love and free dating takes many forms in the world of the A-listers, so if we can take anything away from the most recent celebrity news, it’s that age, sex, dating history and status doesn’t mean all that much if you have chemistry!

 

Photo Credit: Elena Tubaro

Single Parent

Finding ‘the one’ can be difficult at the best of times, but especially so if you’ve got children in tow. However that doesn’t make a quest for love impossible, you just have to change your approach a little to help you find someone that’s right for you and your family. So if you’re a single mum or dad who is looking to get back on the dating scene, here are a few tips to make your adventure fun, exciting, and hopefully fruitful.

 

Set Your Goals and Limit Expectations

Not every single parent is looking to find a new mum or dad for their children. If you’re simply looking for a bit of fun, or someone who also has kids, then that’s ok too. But try to work out exactly what you want from your dating journey before you set off. And don’t get your hopes up on every person who you go on a few dates with. It can be very confusing for children if they meet a lot of new lovers who keep coming and going, so try to keep your dating on neutral territory until you meet someone who you think is ‘the one’.

 

Be Open About Your Children

Be honest from the offset with any dates that you do meet so that they know where they stand. That doesn’t mean introducing yourself as ‘Hi I’m Jane, I have two kids and you look like awesome father material’. However don’t make the mistake of putting off telling them until further down the line. After all, if they don’t want to get involved with a family person, then you’ll have wasted your time on someone who isn’t worth it. Although if you are just looking for some no strings attached fun, then it’s not an essential talking point anyway.

 

Find Love in the Right Places 

We’re not saying it’s impossible, but you’re not very likely to find a family-loving, caring and reliable man on a boozy night out in town. Meeting new people can be difficult when you have kids for several reasons. Firstly, finding the time to get out and socialise when you’ve got the children to look after can be a challenge, unless you have family and friends who are willing to help out. Secondly, when you do get out there, it’s a whole different ball game seeking out someone suitable.

 

That’s where online dating comes in. By simply logging into your FreeAndSingle account, you can search and connect with local singles when the kids are busy playing or tucked up in bed. Find fellow single parents or exciting new faces who really give you butterflies, and arrange a date when you decide they could be a good match. With our free dating service, it’s never been easier to find love as a parent!

 

We know that the kids come first for any parent, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t make a little time and loving for yourself too, does it? Online dating is a great way to get back on the dating scene whilst keeping on top of the busy role of being a mum or dad. And the best thing about it is that at FreeAndSingle, it’s absolutely free!

Photo Credit: Jenny Downing

Silver Surfer?

Remember the days when you were back at school and it was a massive controversy if you dated someone a few years below you? Even now, you probably have a few friends or relatives that make a big deal if you date someone who wasn’t at least in education at the same time as you. But what exactly does it matter? FreeAndSingle takes a look at whether age gaps really matter when it comes to online dating, to settle this question once and for all.

The Pros and Cons

 

It’s very easy to add up the cons when you think about big age differences in relationships. Many people assume that if you date someone a decade older or younger than you, then you’ll have nothing in common, your partner will be immature or old and boring, and one will outlive the other. But when you think about the many reasons that people get together in the first place, the fact that they are the same age doesn’t usually rank high in priorities, does it?

 

When looking for a partner, most people are searching for someone who makes them laugh and shares their interests – someone who excites them for a change. Online dating is a great example of this, as it shows how many people have failed to find love or friendship within the group of people than they might traditionally socialise with. With free dating online, sure you might check out their profile picture and age, but the emphasis is more on where you’re located, what hobbies you have, and if you make a connection when you start chatting. Surely you can’t put an age on chemistry?

 

Besides, free dating doesn’t automatically lead to marriage and kids, and the whole emphasis of meeting new people online is to refresh your love life and enjoy exciting new encounters. So giving someone older or younger than you a shot doesn’t sign your life away with them…. Unless you eventually decide they’re the one!

 

Celebrity Relationships With Big Age Gaps

 

When you look at the celebrity world, it seems that they don’t care in the slightest about this ‘age old’ problem. Bradley Cooper and Suzi Waterhouse have a 17 year age gap, and that is by no means the biggest in Hollywood. Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas are 25 years apart, having been married for a massive 12 years. Their relationship is surely testament to that fact that you don’t need to have watched the same cartoon programs as a kid to connect. Besides, you could easily argue that having a different background and outlook on life can enrich a relationship and keep you both grounded.

 

We’re not saying that age is irrelevant, as it does to a certain extent define who we are. But when you’re looking to meet local singles online who share your interests and give you a new outlook on life, why should a few years get in the way of your fun?

Photo Credit: Brian Walter

Unique Date Ideas

Online dating is an exciting adventure that is full of surprises. First dates are the real deal breakers of the online dating world, when those flirty conversations and snapshots of their life are put on the table as you come face to face. So if this mystery man or woman has really grabbed your attention, you want to make sure that you make an impression on them too. To give you inspiration, here are 5 unique first date ideas that will show them you’re worth a shot.

 

1. Go For A Picnic

 

Restaurants are an obvious choice for a first date idea, and whilst they may a reliable option, they are also a little predictable. Plus, the formal setting of a restaurant can take much longer to break the ice. So if you’re in for a sunny weekend, why not surprise them with a picnic instead? Choose somewhere that isn’t overly isolated so they don’t feel uncomfortable, and pack a variety of foods in case they’re fussy. This informal, relaxed setting can make it much easier to get to know one another.

 

2. Stand Up Comedy

 

Personality and looks are important, but most people look for a partner with a good sense of humour too, especially women http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/science-news/9453842/Playful-people-more-attractive.html. Taking your date to a comedy night can be a great way to suss out if you connect with their sense of humour, and give you an excuse to extend the night after dinner.

 

3. Get Active

 

Do you have a favourite hobby, or something that you’ve always wanted to try? Activities such as water sports, dancing, rock climbing, or even bowling can easily break down the boundaries and see if they’re as fun-loving and adventurous as you. However try not to choose something too sweaty – no date is going to look great if you’re dripping with sweat and bright as a beetroot after a 5k run. The emphasis with free dating is fun.

 

4. Learn Something New

 

If you’re not particularly keen on the idea of getting active but you still want to try something new and fun, why not take a class together instead? Cookery, archery and cocktail master classes are all hands-on ways to get to know each other. And even if you don’t decide to take your dating any further, at least you can take away a new skill!

 

5. Spice Up Restaurant Dates

 

Still set on choosing a restaurant? Don’t just opt for your standard Italian chain restaurant. Why not find a cuisine that neither of you have tried before… Lebanese food anyone? Many restaurants also hold special evenings and events, so something such as a tasting menu can add a little spice to your first date if you like wining and dining.

 

Give them a day or night to remember by opting for a unique date idea that will stand out from the rest. By showing that you’ve got a spontaneous or adventurous side, they’re much more likely to take an interest and start the date on the right foot. And who knows, it could just lead to a second one!

Photo Credit: Dita Margarita

We were sad to leave Australia after all the fun dates we found in Melbourne, however here at FreeAndSingle we’ve had a fantastic fortnight roaming the Yorkshire Dales in the UK. We’ve found everything from bistros to country pubs, and the winner has now been announced. In case you missed any of the restaurants along the way, let’s have a look over the Top 10 Yorkshire restaurants for dates restaurants.  Click on the links to read the reviews in full and comment below to tell us what you think!

 

10. Greenhead House, Sheffield

A charming old building on the outskirts of Sheffield, this family-run restaurant warmed our cockles with its traditional approach to good food and great service. A perfect example of how Yorkshire can get hospitality spot on.

 

9. The Anvil Inn, Scarborough

Offering a gastro twist on pub grub that makes it perfect for Yorkshire dates, this old blacksmith shop has come a long way from its meagre beginnings. The perfect end to a day at the beach, stay in the B&B for a wonderfully romantic weekend away.

 

8. The Orchid, Harrogate

Modern Asian cuisine in an intimate setting makes The Orchid a perfect setting for a romantic evening in Harrogate. Renowned for being one of the best places to eat in this spa town, be sure to book in advance for a special occasion.

 

7. Oxo’s on the Mount

Just outside of York this five star hotel and restaurant is an exquisite place for a date in Yorkshire if you really want to treat that special someone.

 

6. Ditto, Whitby

Whisk yourselves to the seaside for a great day out in Yorkshire and top it off with a date at Ditto. Offering divine food at unbelievable value, there’s no wonder that this little restaurant is packed throughout the year.

 

Yorkshire Restaurants

Top 10 Yorkshire Date Restaurants

 

5. Salvo’s, Leeds

Italian food is full of passion, so Salvo’s is a safe bet for a date whether it’s your first meeting or an anniversary. Popular with visitors and locals alike, you’ll always get a good feed here and a great atmosphere.

 

4. The Angel Inn, Hetton

Take a road trip through the beautiful Yorkshire Dales to discover this gem of a restaurant. Choose to dine in the restaurant or the more informal bar area to shape your perfect date, whatever the occasion.

 

3. Kendall’s Bistro, Leeds

This quirky independent bistro in the heart of the city is a unique place for a date in Leeds. Serving delicious French cuisine in a relaxed and comforting setting, you’ll soon feel at home tucking into great food and drink.

 

2. The Box Tree, Ilkley

Although it might be a little expensive for a first date, who can argue with a Michelin star when it comes to fine dining? For a truly memorable Yorkshire date, this antique-laden restaurant is a top choice.

 

1. Bettys, Harrogate

An unusual but winning choice for a date in Yorkshire, Bettys Harrogate really shines through as a unique place to take someone special. Whether visiting for breakfast, lunch, dinner or afternoon tea, it gets it right every time and that’s why we just had to award it with #1 in our countdown.

So that’s a wrap! What do you think of our Top 10, would you do it differently? If so, let us know and feel free to comment below.

Want to try out some of these restaurants but need to find a date first? FreeAndSingle is a 100% free dating website! Sign up today and get connected.

Salvo’s

 

115 & 107 Otley Road

Headingley

Leeds

West Yorkshire

LS6 3PX

 

http://www.salvos.co.uk/

 

Good place to take a date:

8/10

Having opened its doors to Headingley close to 40 years ago, this family-run restaurant is well-established as a favourite spot for Yorkshire dates in Leeds.  Head out of the city centre to this thriving suburb and feel as though you’re amongst friends in Salvo’s. Perhaps a little too busy to be intimate, it’s nevertheless a fun spot for a meal on a Friday night if you love good Italian fare. The staff are happy to throw in a few personal touches for a special occasion if you let them know, such as birthday desserts or champagne on ice. As a result, it’s more than just your average pizzeria if you want to enjoy your favourite cuisine somewhere that does it with class.

 

Good place to meet for a first date:

9/10

You know next to nothing about them except that you want your first date in Yorkshire to go well. Then Salvo’s is a great bet. With classic Italian dishes done well, amicable staff to make things run smoothly, and a lively atmosphere to warm things up, this restaurant has all the ingredients of a recipe for success. Visit on an evening for a vibrant and vivacious date, or play it cool with a lunchtime booking if you want to suss them out without going all out. The family focus of the restaurant makes it stylish without being stuffy, and you won’t have to worry about finding something on the menu as Italian food is a winner every time.

 

Salvo's Leeds

Salvo’s Leeds

 

Average age:

Find a healthy mix of diners at Salvo’s whenever you time your visit. Families, couples and friends all intersperse to create a welcoming atmosphere that’s without pretence. There’s always a birthday or anniversary being celebrated in Salvo’s, but equally you won’t feel out of place turning up after work for an informal meal either.

 

Time of review:

If you’ve planned a last minute Yorkshire date don’t worry, Salvo’s keeps a few tables aside every night for walk-ins to maintain that casual feel to the place that makes it so popular. Open for lunch and dinner throughout the week, it welcomes you with open arms to its warm embrace of Italian food and drink.

 

Average cost of a meal and a drink:

Expect to pay around £10 for pasta or pizza, or a little more if you want something a bit more adventurous to satisfy your appetite. At £17.50 for 3 courses the early bird menu is great value, and to escape the string of chain restaurants from the city centre it’s certainly worth the price to avoid being predictable.

 

Type of cuisine:

Even the fussiest of foodies will find something to smile about on the menu at Salvo’s. Traditional pizzas and pastas sit happily alongside confit of duck and fillet of sea bream. Teamed with a fruity Italian wine you’ll experience a taste sensation that will hopefully match your conversation on a date to this restaurant.

 

Final word:

For the food, drink, service and atmosphere, there’s little to disagree on for a Leeds date in Salvo’s. It might not be the most adventurous option for a date in Yorkshire, but who’s to say that’s a bad thing? With decades of experience in doing Italian food right, you won’t go far wrong if you bring your lover girl or boy here for a feast.

Ditto

 

26 Skinner Street

Whitby

YO21 3AJ

 

http://www.ditto-restaurant.co.uk/

 

Good place to take a date:

9/10

A trip to the seaside doesn’t have to translate to fish and chips, and if you want a more sophisticated way to round off your visit to Whitby, Ditto fits the bills. Recently under new management, this quaint little restaurant looks humble from the outside, but the locals know otherwise. Intimate and personal, Ditto easily creates a romantic atmosphere for a Yorkshire date if you can manage to get a table. Unhurried service with a smile helps to tailor a special occasion, that the succulent dishes only serve to enhance. A little gem in a Yorkshire coastal town that isn’t renowned for being refined, it’s a perfect way to add a little class to your day trip to Whitby.

 

 

Good place to meet for a first date:

9/10

There are few better ways to get to know someone than a day at the seaside. From walks on the beach to slots in the amusements, it’s a light-hearted way to spend a weekend for a Yorkshire date. So after you’ve worked up an appetite on the blustery pier, charm them with this enchanting little restaurant. Ditto presents impressive dishes in a setting that is totally unpretentious and personal. In fact, it feels more like home than a top-rated restaurant, and should make you feel at ease as you delve into conversation and hearty dishes. The only problem is that you might have to ask them on a date a few weeks before you want to visit, as this small but incredibly popular restaurant tends to be fully booked around the clock! Perhaps a booking to gamble on in the hope that a second date comes onto the cards…

 

Ditto, Whitby

Ditto, Whitby

 

Average age:

Romance is the dish of the day at Ditto, so whether you’re a pair of young lovers or have a love that’s lasted through the ages, it’s a top choice for Whitby dates. Dress up if you like but don’t feel embarrassed to come in from the cold after a long day exploring the Yorkshire coastline, for the cherry on the top of your date.

 

Time of review:

Not only because of the size of the restaurant, you’re unlikely to get a table for two on a whim at Ditto. Open Tuesday to Saturday on evenings only, it has a loyal customer base that intertwines with the visitors coming to the area to keep the atmosphere fresh and welcoming. Book a table early evening as a perfect way to round off your Whitby visit before heading home… or back to the hotel.

 

Average cost of a meal and a drink:

At three courses for £30 you really can’t argue with the prices at Ditto. You might even be able to stretch to a pot of Yorkshire tea for a few pounds extra. Ditto serves quality dishes at a fraction of the prices that you’d find in London and even places such as York, Leeds and Harrogate, making it an affordable option for Yorkshire dates for big occasions and tenuous first dates.

 

Type of cuisine:

Ditto is true to its roots and indulges in a fair representation of fish dishes on the menu, but without placing the focus exclusively on seafood. Tarte tatin, braised pork belly and cheese soufflé are just some of the other delightful dishes available at Ditto. And make sure you leave room for dessert, and show your sweet side with some of the indulgent treats to finish your meal.

 

Final word:

Find a perfect excuse to spend the whole day with your date by a visit to Whitby topped with a meal at Ditto. Beautiful food in an unimposing setting, you’ll feel right at home as you tuck into great food and even better conversation in this intimate restaurant. And you’ll breathe a sigh of relief when the bill comes too!

The Box Tree

 

35-37 Box Street
Ilkley

LS29 9DR

 

http://www.theboxtree.co.uk/

 

Good place to take a date:

10/10

You don’t have to go to the cities to find Michelin star dining. The Box Tree is a lavishly appealing place for a Yorkshire date if you want an experience to treasure. Ilkley is a bit of a haven for antique and gift shops, so it only seems fitting that its star attraction is garnished with oldy-worldy furniture and artwork that make it so atmospheric. Enjoy faultless silver service as you dine like a star with that special spark in your life in comfy chairs in the charming restaurant. You won’t be able to resist taking a few snaps of the food to remember the occasion, and you’ll hopefully clinch the deal with your date too!

 

Good place to meet for a first date:

9/10

If money is no object or you really need to pull out all of the stops for a show-stopping first date in Yorkshire, The Box Tree is the winning ticket. Michelin star quality with effortless ease, you won’t feel uncomfortable as you’re waited on hand and foot by the amicable staff. Find plenty of cause for conversation as you admire the antiques, the presentation of the food… and perhaps even each other. You’ll want a second date together just to marvel at the magnificence of the first!

 

The Box Tree

The Box Tree

 

Average age:

Budget is more of a determining factor than age for Yorkshire dates at The Box Tree, and if you want to make the most of the Michelin star experience then you don’t want to be scraping the barrel of a tight budget. This is definitely a spot for wearing your Sunday best, so make a real effort to sparkle as bright as the cutlery on a visit to this fancy restaurant.

 

Time of review:

Open from Tuesday to Saturday for dinner and Friday to Sunday for lunch, The Box Tree is an incredibly romantic restaurant for an evening meal but can also be a highlight of the weekend if you want a sublime lunch date. Book ahead, because you’ll look like a royal fool if you walk in to a Michelin star restaurant without a reservation…

 

Average cost of a meal and a drink:

For the real Michelin experience, sample the Menu Gourmand that, with wine, costs just over £100 per head. A hefty price, but an unforgettable culinary treat if you can afford to shell out for something sensational. However if you want to see what fine dining is all about without breaking the bank, the 3 course daily menu is much more reasonable at £30 for lunch, £40 for dinner.

 

Type of cuisine:

Any restaurant that pairs its menu with a sommelier’s choice surely knows what they’re talking about. Advanced creations such as celeriac and truffle foam show that The Box Tree is cutting edge in the kitchen. However the overall feel of the menu isn’t showy, and irresistible options such as loin of lamb and strawberries with champagne bring the restaurant back down to earth for the average diner.

 

Final word:

Showing the world just what Yorkshire is capable of, The Box Tree makes a stunning spot for an Ilkley date. Be sure to wait until pay day, but when you visit you won’t be disappointed.

Bettys

 

1 Parliament Street

Harrogate

HG1 2Qu

 

http://www.bettys.co.uk/bettys_harrogate.aspx

 

Good place to take a date:

10/10

Rating for dating aside, Bettys is a British institution. A beacon of the North for tradition and class, this fabulous café-cum-restaurant is quintessentially English. From the china tea cups to the immaculate staff, the overall effect of this place is really something special. So surprise your partner with an altogether different Yorkshire date and pay a visit to Bettys for brunch, afternoon tea, or even dinner. Be prepared to queue, but the buzz of excitement of the diners and the eye-catching treats displayed all around make it a worthwhile wait. And you’ll be made to feel like a valued couple when you are seated.

 

Good place to meet for a first date:

10/10

Show your date a spontaneous side and break away from the traditional dinner date with a trip to this quaint and elegant tea room. Whilst it might be a little on the expensive side for a first date in Yorkshire, the novelty totally justifies the price and you won’t get swindled on portion sizes either. After all, you’re in Yorkshire now. Take afternoon tea for two or tuck into more hearty British dishes as you watch the world go by out of the window and soak up the warm ambience of the restaurant. It’s really got pretty much everything going for it.

 

Bettys Harrogate

Bettys Harrogate

 

Average age:

Turns out it isn’t just little old ladies who love tea and cake. Find businessmen, friends, family and couples all queuing to discover the joys of a trip to Bettys. A must-do attraction in Harrogate whether you’re visiting for the Tour de Yorkshire this summer, attending a show or conference, or simply wanting a relaxing weekend away in the spa town.

 

Time of review:

From morning til late, Bettys is packed with tourists and locals alike treating themselves to a five star experience in Harrogate. The brunch menu is delightfully tempting if you want to get in early, whilst the versatile menu works for lunch and dinner depending on when you want to visit. There’s always a busy buzz about the place, just leave time to queue for a table.

 

Average cost of a meal and a drink:

If you’re just wanting a cuppa and a cake you might be shocked at the prices in Bettys. However you pay for the finest ingredients in everything from the coffee to the main meals, and you really can taste the difference. An elegant twist on British cuisine, go all out with a champagne afternoon tea for two at £25 a head, or keep it simple with tea and cake for just under £10.

 

Type of cuisine:

Bettys brands its food as drawing ‘from the Swiss Alps to the Yorkshire Dales’, allowing the wider European influence to shape the menu without straying away from its focus. As a result, you’ll find Yorkshire rarebit alongside more exotic things on the menu such as Flammkuchen and Tarte au Citron, providing plenty of choice.

 

Final word:

As a totally unique idea for a Yorkshire date that will leave your belly full and your eyes opened to the joys of British traditions and cuisine, it’s no wonder that Bettys only increases in popularity over time. An utterly fabulous alternative to your standard evening meal, it’s a great way to show off your fun side on a visit to Harrogate. That’s why we’ve crowned it the winner of our countdown.