ICONIC tearoom business Bettys has announced when its stores and cafes will reopen, with one welcoming back customers this month.

Bettys decided to close its shops in January due to the increasing number of Covid-19 cases around the country, while its tearooms have been shut since the current nationwide lockdown.

Today, the much-loved company revealed a phased reopening in line with the government's road map out of lockdown.

Opening on March 29, Bettys Tea House in RHS Gardens Harlow Carr, Harrogate, will be the first to serve its popular pots of tea and famous cakes once again. 

All stores will reopen on April 12, alongside other non-essential retail, with all cafes following suit on May 17. 

However, Stonegate, in York, does not yet have a reopening date. 

Announcing the reopening, Bettys said: "It’s time to stop dreaming of visits to Bettys – it’ll soon be a reality! With a fair wind, we’ll be fully open by mid-May - fancy counter full, cake stands gleaming and tea piping hot."

Anyone wishing to get their Bettys fix early can book afternoon tea at Imperial Room, Harrogate, and Belmont Room, York, for a sitting from May 17.