Located along the bank of the scenic River Wharfe lies the charming village of Boston Spa.
Just three miles south of Wetherby and 16 miles north of Leeds, this quaint town is the perfect place to explore on the weekend if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Renowned for it’s elegant Georgian architecture, Boston Spa was originally established in 1974 as a spa town and til this day charms with it’s natural beauty, ambience and vibrant community.
Bursting with independent shops, restaurants, bars and cafes, there’s so much to do in this lovely village that you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Here’s a list of our favourite spots in the area for you to choose from and visit this weekend.
CORA
CORA is an innovative fine dining room and bakehouse, brought to you by renowned chef Elizabeth Cottam. Having just opened in Spring 2021, they have quickly made a name for themselves amongst the locals and is a must visit when in Boston Spa.
Pop by for a loaf of their legendary truffle sourdough to enjoy over the weekend or sample an indulgent, twice baked hazelnut croissant alongside your morning coffee. Stick around til the evening and enjoy the chef’s tasting menu which changes seasonally and is guaranteed to be a meal you won’t forget.
For more information including how to book, take a look at their website.
162 High Street, Boston Spa, Leeds.
Pudding Lab
This bakery and patisserie does in fact live up to it’s name and serves up the most fantastic puddings. Their offerings are creative and unique, with flavours that will blow your socks off and show-stopping creations that almost look too good to eat.
From Blackberry, White Chocolate and Pistachio Tarts to Chocolate and Hazelnut Eclairs, there really is something for everyone at this delightful little cafe. There’s also an extensive savoury menu so you can pop by for breakfast, brunch, lunch or afternoon tea. If you’ve got a sweet tooth then this really is the place to be.
154 Boston Spa High Street.
SALT
Award-winning Yorkshire craft brewery SALT Beer Factory have been expanding across Leeds over the past year and later this month, the brand will be fusing craft beer and a casual dining experience at the former Stew & Oyster venue in Boston Spa.
Jamie Lawson, Founder, has commented on the opening: “We want to continue extending the retail presence of SALT, through our branded taprooms. SALT Boston Spa will be our second rebranded site after the acquisition of the Stew & Oyster Group. Our goal is to brew the best beer and serve it in the best environment, for us that’s beer perfection”.
Find out more here.
The Crown
Looking for a nice cosy pub to settle down in after a glorious walk along the river bank? Then The Crown is the place for you. This beautiful Grade II listed building has been transformed into a contemporary country pub which boasts a modern dining area, conservatory restaurant and landscaped garden terrace.
Here you can find more than just your average pub grub, the menu is curated seasonally and features produce from local and regional Yorkshire suppliers. Expect the likes of beer battered haddock and chips, freshly handmade pizzas, along with a traditional Sunday Roast served with proper gravy and all the trimmings.
128 High St, Boston Spa.
La Casita
There’s no better weekend activity than sharing some delicious Spanish tapas alongside a jug of sangria amongst friends, right? Head to La Casita where you can sample a taste of Spain in a glorious setting for a reasonable price.
Choose from your tapas classics such as Patatas Bravas, Pimientos de Padrón and Calamares. Or opt for something a little different like their fried halloumi popcorn which is drizzled with honey and served with a harissa aioli. They also host a Bottomless Brunch every weekend where you can enjoy 3 tapas and an unlimited drink of your choice for just £28.95 per person.
Find out more here.
174 High St, Boston Spa.
Harts
This quaint coffee house and delicatessen is a foodie’s paradise. Passionate about homemade food and Yorkshire produce, here you can find vibrant salads, freshly baked scotch eggs and delicious sweet treats to be enjoyed in their charming cafe adorned with hanging baskets and flowers.
They also have a lovely outdoor terrace which is the perfect sun trap and a great spot to relax with a cup of coffee and watch the world go by.
High St, Boston Spa.
Kate Mell Flowers
This beautiful boutique florist is the place to go for a carefully curated, one-of-a-kind bouquet of flowers.
This floral emporium bursts with the freshest flowers and foliage, seasonal plants, a range of their own handmade candles, British wool throws and gifts from artisan & small businesses. Whether you’re looking to celebrate, congratulate or commemorate, you’ll find the perfect gift in this wonderful shop.
160 High St, Boston Spa.
Kanyu
Kanyu is one of the most innovative escape rooms in Yorkshire and is well worth the trip out to Boston Spa. You’ll find this puzzle haven in a Grade II listed Georgian Gatehouse in the middle of a roundabout just off the A1.
The historic space has been transformed into a suite of escape rooms, all designed by a group of film set designers. Choose from the spooky abandoned laboratory, the oak-panelled study room or their outdoor poacher’s camp. The question is, will you manage to escape within 60 minutes?
South Lodge, Moor End, Boston Spa.
Ali’s Kitchen
This family run restaurant and takeaway serve up the freshest and most delicious Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine.
All their dishes are cooked fresh to order and are bursting with flavour. Opt for their homemade king prawns marinated in lemon and garlic butter or go for the staff special which features tender lamb cooked on the bone for five hours with lentils, yoghurt and chilli.
188A High St, Boston Spa.
Read more: The best things to do in and around Leeds | 4 – 10 July 2022
Feature Image: Kate Mell Flowers
