The Great British Bake-Off proves what we’ve always known: Britain is a top destination for those with a sweet tooth. We’ve found five of the UK’s best cake shops:
Betty’s, York
Although Harrogate is home to the original Betty’s tearoom (founded in 1919), the York branch’s art deco interior, modelled on the Queen Mary cruise ship, makes it the one to visit. Afternoon tea is traditionally British and brilliantly executed.
Ottolenghi, London
Founded by high-profile Middle Eastern chef Yotam Ottolenghi, this small chain of delis and shops turn out some serious flourless chocolate teacakes. Fluffy sponges crammed with fruit fillings and airy meringues are also hard to resist.
Konditor & Cook, London
Beloved by Nigella Lawson, Konditor & Cook’s array of cakes, including carrot cake, berry tarts and cute little two-tone biscuits, are some of London’s best. The brownies are essential snacking.
Patisserie Jacob, Edinburgh
Jacob Philip is a minor celebrity in Edinburgh, and has recently moved to an upmarket spot in Haymarket. Expect the same exceptional quality of confections (Amaretto cream cake, anyone?) in a high-ceilinged and spacious setting.
Phoenix Bakery, Weymouth
Aidan Chapman provides the baked goods for acclaimed restaurant River Cottage, and his bakery in Weymouth serves exemplary English Eccles cakes, bread pudding and polenta cake.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose London guide covers all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas in the city.
(The scrumptious featured image is Cakes © Adisa, 2013. Used under licence from Shutterstock.com)
