What can be more English than tea and scones sat in one of York’s lovely, historic buildings?

SconeFest, held in the 700-year-old Bedern Hall, off St Andrewgate, allows you to do just that.

The second such festival, following an inaugural festival last year, which raised £1,000 to help run the historic hall, also promises a peaceful haven just a short walk from the throng of York’s bustling summer streets.

SconeFest began today (Wed) and runs until Friday.

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Morgan Lee, the hall’s visitor and engagement officer, says custom had been really great.

Morgan said: “We have been busy all morning, making fresh scones, which have been flying out of the kitchen. We have had lovely weather. People have been able to sit on the terrace and enjoy the scones and the sunshine.”

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“The school holidays are also helping with the turnout. We are also running a competition where you can try a mystery scone and guess what it is. The prize is an afternoon tea for two.”

Bernardette Thompson has been baking the scones, something she has a reputation for in York, along with her Christmas puddings.

Bernardette said: “I have been baking since I was 16 when I left to do catering in Selby. Then I went to Thomas Danby College in Leeds to do master baking.”

“I worked for the National Trust Treasurers House for 13 years and after I was made redundant I came here, bringing my skills with me, including Christmas Puddings.”

“People like it here. It’s a bit different and a beautiful building. It raises money for the hall. We made £1,000 last year.”

(Image: pic supplied)

In addition to scones, other Yorkshire delights are on offer, courtesy of Ruth English, who runs Winnie’s Yorkshire Delights, from near Thirsk.

Ripon-born Ruth started the business 11 years ago after leaving her job as a tourism officer in Middlesbrough to look after her ill ‘other half.’

“The pension was rubbish so I reinvented myself. I make award winning beetroot fruit relish, autumn chutney, five different marmalades, five different jams. I also produce art, which is for sale.”

Holding a guitar she added: “I will also sing a song if you buy.”

But was SconeFest, everyone’s cup of tea?

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Well, I enjoyed my cup of tea and a few mini-scones, which was very relaxing and civilised.

Ros Brownlee from Pocklington enjoyed her scones and tea with friends Sue and Mark Harrison.

Ros said: “It’s been great. It’s beautiful here, with gorgeous scones from Bernadette.”

“It’s lovely to be in such a historic building, with good conversation, a gorgeous place to meet. What’s not to like?”

Sue added: “Yes, it was absolutely gorgeous.”

SconeFest runs until Friday.