Set near the junction of Pavement and the Shambles, the small parish hall is all that is left of St Crux church, one of the large parish churches in York. It is now open during the summer as a fund raising tea room. Different charities can ‘rent’ it for one day a year. Inside is a small serving counter with chairs and tables sharing the space with memorials and hatchments hanging from the walls and a rather splendid tomb dated 1610. It is very popular with ‘those in the know’.
When I visited, there was a good selection of filled rolls as well as home made cakes. I rather regretted having bought a sandwich from Sainsburys Local earlier, but the chocolate cake proved irresistible. I asked for a glass of water, which caused great consternation as everyone checked that I didn’t want a cup of tea to go with it. It was a big slice and possibly one of the best chocolate cakes I’ve had for a long time. I could hardly believe it when I was just charged £1. The lady on the till smiled and said “Yes, we’re the best kept secret in York!”
They are as there is no information on the internet advertising when they are open and Tourist Information doesn’t know either. It’s time to spread the news – this is a gem and definitely worth seeking out if in this part of York.
