I recently did away with my daily car commute and started to cycle to York station every morning instead. Now I don’t want to give all of the planet-saving credit to The Perky Peacock on Lendal Bridge, but surely this adorable and brilliant little cafe was a sub-conscious factor in my decision. Open from 7.30am-3pm, Monday-Saturday, it’s conveniently located just a couple of minutes from the station.

I’m certainly not the only candidate for a pre-train caffeine hit, but it’s when I’ve got a proper little chunk of time on a Saturday that I particularly like to drop in. As soon as I walk up the stairs and through the door there’s a lovely feeling in this quirky place: a friendly greeting, a counter loaded with treats and a handful of pretty tables. When it’s warm I try and snatch an outside table. Given the perfect location and distinct shortage of sunny days in these parts, it’s a rare and special treat indeed.

The cappuccino is always perfect but even better is a lovely Chai latte, accompanied by a little pack of ‘Grandma Ward’s ginger biscuits’ (after several enquiries I have to point out that this isn’t some sort of fancy brand, I think it’s actually the owner’s nan) or their exceptional cinnamon and raisin bagel bought in from Via Vecchia, a superb bakery located on The Shambles.

The service is always spot-on, the building feels wonderful to be in and look out of and the treats are heavenly. This really is one of my very favourite places in York to relax, chatter and people-watch; I hope anyone who finds themself near this gem during opening hours pops in for a particularly perky pick-up.

Photograph taken by @CatieH