Marigolds Cafe in Harrogate

A beautiful cafe on the riverside, it was a crisp sunny morning when we visited so we decided to sit outside to enjoy the view. We both had small veggie breakfasts with hot drinks. They do get busy (good sign) but they let you know the wait time before they seat you. We didn't mind waiting when the views are lush.

Always a great location for a coffee and breakfast beside the Nidd River and an incredible view of the Knaresborough railway bridge.

Food was good, but lacking in quantity don't expect to be full.

Quite busy so a 25 minute wait for coffee and cake but nice spot at side of river.

We waited a short while for a table but it was definitely worth the wait, we sat outside with a great view of Knaresborough viaduct the tide was too high for boating on the day we visited but I imagine it would be lovely to spend an hour on the water on a good day The menu was varied with something for every taste we both had a delicious Tuna toasties which came with a salad garnish and crisps, they had a selection of beer and wine to choose from as well as delicious coffee and cakes we had a very enjoyable couple of hours sitting watching the world go by, definitely one to visit if you are in Knaresborough

Really nice place sit and have a bite to eat on the river just under the bridge. Only bad thing I would say, which some would think it’s a good thing is you may need to wait a while to get in when it’s sunny.

Had one of the best fish gougon sandwiches the granary breadcake fresh as could be, partner had bacon and tomato was great as well, have passed by this place lots of times , tried it today not disappointed prices are okay too .

We were there for the view, but the food was nice and staff friendly, we had a great time enjoying the view and sunshine 😎😎

We were there just for coffee and some sweet. The coffee was okay. The victoria sponge cake was amazing. The cream that came with the cake was very delicious. Reasonable price. Nice view.

A great family restaurant where you can take lunch, coffee and ride a boat around the lake😍🚣

The male staff were very polite. I asked two male staff where the toilet was and they kindly told me to go to the toilet inside the restaurant. But a female waiter in the restaurant insisted that the toilet was closed and not allowed to be used. I don't understand why? The toilet was clearly there but not allowed to be used. If the toilet was not allowed to be used, why did other staff tell me that I could use it? What's wrong with this female staff?

We went there on Wednesday during school holidays. You might need to wait ( mostly if you want to dine outside). We waited around half an hour to enter and it was worth the wait , the view was good. Also there is an option for you to row the boat (different queue) for an hour. Parking: we parked at York Place Long Stay. We had a vegan burger & fried egg hot sandwich, both were delicious.

Perfect location, stunning view

Excellent place to stop in Knaresborough- lovely staff, great service. We enjoyed flat white, Victoria sponge, toasted tea cake and scones. Good brunch/lunch menu.

I'm a vegetarian and ordered their veggie burger and after taking a few bites and opening up the burger I realised they had give me a real beef burger with bacon in as well. Not massively apologetic when I pointed this out. They also forgot to take it off the bill and tried to charge us for this. My partner had a cheese sandwich and the bread was quite stale so the food was disappointing overall. Queued for over 30 minutes for a table which is probably expected for the nice location but be prepared to queue for the 1 toilet as well and I'd recommend checking your food is what you ordered. Not a good experience.

I'm a vegetarian and ordered their veggie burger and after taking a few bites and opening up the burger I realised they had give me a real beef burger with bacon in as well. Not massively apologetic when I pointed this out. They also forgot to take it off the bill and tried to charge us for this. My partner had a cheese sandwich and the bread was quite stale so the food was disappointing overall. Queued for over 30 minutes for a table which is probably expected for the nice location but be prepared to queue for the 1 toilet as well and I'd recommend checking your food is what you ordered. Not a good experience.

Nice peaceful place to spend time at

A Gem by the Riverside in Knaresborough Marigolds is an absolute gem that should be on every visitor's itinerary, especially when exploring the picturesque riverside area. This lovely spot offers a trifecta of amazing views, delicious food, and exciting activities that will leave you wanting more. The views of the River Nidd are simply breathtaking, and the perfect accompaniment to a leisurely meal or snack. Speaking of which, the food at Marigolds is top-notch. My partner and I both opted for burgers and chips, which were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour. As we gazed around at other diners' plates, we couldn't help but feel that we need to return to sample more of their delectable dishes. But don’t forget Marigolds is more than just a great dining spot. One of its biggest attractions is the option to hire a boat and paddle up and down the River Nidd at your own pace. This is an absolute must-do, especially on a sunny day. Imagine drifting along the river, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding area - pure bliss! If I were to offer one suggestion for improvement, it would be for Marigolds to extend their operating hours. We found ourselves wanting to linger longer, enjoying the peaceful evening atmosphere by the river, but unfortunately, the venue closed earlier than we would have liked. You'll be hard-pressed to find a more enjoyable way to spend your time by the riverside. Don't miss out on this gem - add it to your itinerary today!

Wednesday morning brunch on of the best places in Knaresborough. Got seated straight away outside, and took order within 5 minutes. Food & drink came in 15 minutes which was good and hot. I wanted another coffee after the meal but this took longer than expected which was disappointing. Coffees not the best tdf.

Had lunch here during a day trip to Knaresborough. Brilliantly situated on the banks of the river, every outside table has a river view. This would be worth it for the entertainment value alone of watching so many tourists struggling to row, however the food we had was also delicious. My wife and I both had a falafel salad with pitta and pine nuts. Worth a trip if you're looking for a lunch on the river with an amazing view of the bridge.

Beautifully positioned little waterside cafe in Knaresborough with both inside and outdoor seating. Indoors was a bit noisy as very busy on my visit and type of furnishings did not dampen the noise. Food was lovely with good portion sizes. Would recommend.

Nice place to sit and watch the world go by why kids play on the boats

Been a million times now, always good much improvement since my last review!! I like

Nicely cooked Full English and well made coffee at a lovely spot by the river. Perfect! Friendly service too. Always aque w. But moves quickly.

Food was average, very commercial style Morrisons cafe vibe menu - could be a whole lot better if they upped their menu and changed the options to a more broader, modern set of options. Coffee was poor too, ordered a flat white and got a latte; asked for a new flat white and the same sized and strength latte came out - no excuse for this in 2024. Views and staff can’t fault however.

Lovely cafe with good food portions and a lovely view of the river

Beautiful friendly place to stop for coffee and cake. But it is very popular so be prepared to wait for one of those lovely tables alongside the boats with the iconic Knaresborough view.

Lovely riverside cafe. Very good service and food served very attractively. Cake comes with cream, fresh strawberries and chocolate biscuits. Superb cream tea in very pretty surroundings.

An absolutely beautiful place to stop off for coffee. The staff were so lovely 😍 👌

Beautiful place to sit and have a coffee

Lovely lunch spot the food was good and the staff friendly and attentive we would definitely recommend.

Lovely view from our table. Though quite a que, it moved quickly and we were kept informed. Service was very friendly and didn’t seem to take too long even though very busy. Food was really good. Will definitely be back.

Stopped for a cuppa and cake, lovely location, great service and tasty cake.

Nice friendly cafe to sit outside and enjoy coffee and cake

Good food, good view, friendly service! What more could you ask for! A must to sit down, chill and eat!

Great location if you get the weather.

A great location next to the river and the food was good. Service wasn't great as they forgot about us at one point. When I went to ask where our drinks were, I entered an unmarked doorway where I could see some waitresses standing. A man said to me "what do you want mate, this is the kitchen" in an aggressive voice; to which I replied that I was still waiting for my drink, at which point, a polite waitress took over and advised that she would bring it right away. Well worth a visit but don't go near aggressive man.

Terrible service. Didn't have a clue asked for the order 3 times which was then wrong 3 times took 30 minutes for coffee and cakes

Visited with family last weekend. Can’t fault the level of service received. On a busy hot day, we were looked after so well by a lady from London. She was very attentive, offering us water and entertaining our kids whilst queuing even our pooch enjoyed the doggy biscuits on offer! What seemed like a long queue soon went down. We were frequently updated with how long till our table would be ready. The food was delicious and would highly recommend a visit. We will for sure be back in the near future.

Really great place to take in the essence of Knaresborough. Down by the river, watching the rowing boats, in the shadow of the spectacular viaduct! There was a queue when we arrived. Most people wanted to sit outside, but there was more space indoors, so if you don't mind, let them know. Food was good, and the service also. Great spot for a break, before a climb back up via the castle grounds.

The best double espresso for a long long time in the UK

Friendly staff, the scone and ice creams were great, stop for a break here. They also have boats that you can rent and enjoy the amazing view of knaresborough

Its been great family trip , but very disappointed with ice cream taste , and not worth it for that price , overall the view is great and worth a visit.

Gorgeous cafe by the river, we sat outside and took in the stunning surroundings. We were warmly welcomed, given biscuit for our dog. The coffee and hot chocolate were excellent, large hot, well made and presented. Homemade muesli flapjack was soo good and toasted teacake also. The river location meant rowing boats could be hired. This gave us entertainment as 2 ladies who'd never rowed went round in circles and into the Banking. The guy who worked with the boats took excellent care of them rescuing them a few times, so kudos to him. Definitely recommend and would be our first choice when returning.

Had a lovely lunch and Max who was on his first day of work experience was very polite !

Wonderful place, wonderful views

Beautiful cafe with lovely interior, just overlooking the river. Lovely atmosphere and delicious cakes

Sat and watched the world go by while enjoying a very nice latte, staff are friendly

Nice breakfast spot, very busy tho,

Lovely setting and tasty coffee and scones. Had to half it actually , as my wife caught sight and swapped a bit of hers for mine...both very nice!

Very average. The view is the best thing going for this place. Food was okay - my husband's burger seemed to be very cheap meat, very dense. Ice cream also didn't seem cheap. Service staff were friendly but incompetent. One table next to us left after waiting for 15min to order drinks, had to ask to order, and then once again forgotten (with no order taken). I had to ask to get served more drinks, which the order was taken but then the staff member didn't think to remove our finished plates, and I had to ask the next server to remove them (after she put down our fresh drinks and was about to walk away without clearing our table). Staff regularly walking away from the room without checking if customers need orders taking or dirty plates removing. So, fine for a coffee and a sandwich, but they could do a lot, lot better.

Visited on a weekday lunchtime as we'd been told the riverside spot was nice. Staff were friendly and found us a table with speedy service. I had a delicious Cream of Courgette soup - it was the best thing I ate on my holiday.

We went to the ice cream shop at the other side of the road which is part of this business. Three x one scoop ice creams for £9.60. Normally when you order a one-scoop you get a little to fill the cone then one scoop on top. At Marigolds you don't. You just get the small scoop to fill the cone. You could hardly see any ice cream in the cone. We actually couldn't believe it. We felt ripped off. I would have said something but the lady behind the till didn't look very friendly.

Always friendly, good food and welcoming to dogs. It can get very busy but worth it. Gorgeous river views. Even open on a cold Monday morning when the roaring fire was much appreciated.

Either as a couple of individually we have been visiting Marigolds on a weekly basis. As regular visitors we both carry loyalty cards ( 9 drinks gives you one free) On this week's visit my loyalty card had 8 stamps on it whilst my partner's has 1 stamp. After purchasing 2 drinks I presented both loyalty cards to the young gentleman taking payment. He flatly refused to add 2 stamps advising it was now policy that only one loyalty card can be presented per visit. ( One stamp only applied to my card with 8 stamps on it......and in hindsight fully appreciate I should have asked for both stamps on my partner's card) Needless to say if this is how you look after loyal customers then you will find us in the Black Orchid on future visits to Knaresborough

Very enjoyable and efficient. The waiters and staff were polite and on top of everything. The food was good and a reasonable price. It also affords a great view of the Nidd and the viaduct.

We had tea and coffee so can't comment on the food. Service was quick and friendly, and we had a perfect view of the river from our table 🙂.

Had lunch at this gorgeous little cafe today. The food was great and the staff were excellent. Can't beat the views of the river too.

The staff are very lovely and the food is fantastic - good prices and good view too!

Lovely setting right on the riverside. We had a short wait for a table at peak lunchtime. We had some cream scones and chips to share with a couple of coffees. All really nice and good portion sizes. Beautiful setting, pram accessible and clean. Will definitely return.

We came for lunch on a drizzly day. We only had to wait for around 1 minute before being seated and the staff were all very friendly. The indoors is spacious with lots of seating and dogs were allowed inside. We had a delicious lunch and the staff gave our little dog lots of fussing. There were other people inside with young children and dogs and it was all quite harmonious. The only thing I'd note is that due to people coming and going through the doors to outside, it was a little drafty- but I imagine that if you sat nearer to the wood burner, this wouldn't be an issue. We can't wait to come back!

I’ll open by saying we visited at what appeared to be a fairly quiet time. Lots of free tables - perhaps 60% full. It took a good 5 minutes standing outside in the cold before someone came to see us - not terrible, but it set the scene for what was to come. Once we were seated, it took: - 15 minutes for someone to take our order - A further 25 minutes before coffee arrived - Thankfully not much longer for food, maybe another 10 minutes. The coffee wasn’t very nice (the milk tasted funny), but the food itself was good, although some components such as the mushrooms were cold. The room was freezing, because staff kept leaving the door open walking to and from where they prepare food & drink, to where people are sat. It was comical, as everyone in the seating area was clearly angry and frustrated at the wait, the cold room, and the lack of service. They also leave the trays on the table when they bring the drinks, despite there being no space for them (at least not on the 2-seater tables). We asked the server to take the tray, and he was disgruntled by this request, initially attempting to leave it on the floor leaning against one of our chairs, then realising that wasn’t going to work so he took it with him. Seriously…. Considering we visited at a quiet time, I dread to think what this place is like when it’s busy. Maybe they just had an off day, but everyone in the dining room had the same complaints as us, and I suggest they urgently look to fix these problems. Alas, the view was nice.

Fantastic food and beautiful scenery! We waited probably 20 mins to get in but well worth it. The food was delicious and especially eating with the view of the river/bridge and people canoeing. Would definitely recommend. Food was slightly costly but you pay for the view as well. 9/10 👍🏻📸

Beautiful views across the river and lovely atmosphere. Food was limited.with regards vegan and vegetarian options with 2/3 veggie options and flapjack as the only vegan food item available. Oat milk was an option, so vegan drinks are available. Nice spot to grab a cuppa on a cold day.

Lovely staff, great coffee, food and a magical river view. Always a delight to be there.

Ice cream with a view! There tends to be a queue, I think if would be nice to make a different entrance or an indication for those who just want a takeaway ice cream.

Highly recommend amazing cakes & coffees by the river. Beautiful location Absolutely loved it. Friendly staff.

Old lady server kept making sarcastic remarks behind our backs when we could not decide what we wanted to eat or seat , and saw her mouthing her frustration, the place was empty and plenty of seating to be chosen to get a nice view of the bridge etc , so with that we got up and left and eat n drank at another customer friendly close by

Beautiful cafe with wood burner, positioned on the edge of the river side. A warm welcome, friendly staff. Pleanty of room inside. Delicious Creamy garlic mushrooms served with toasted seeded bread, absolutely spot on. My daughter had a toasted panini. 10month old had a little scrambled egg with toast. Won't be too long be for we are back. Thank you to you all.

Wonderful breakfast and cappuccino, nice views of the river great service. Would definitely recommend . 😉👍

Visited here many times, will return again. Can eat inside or out. Superb staff, clearly well trained.

Food and service was good. Very nice place to sit by the river.

Really nice food, really nice seating out in the open by the river, friendly and good service.

Firstly, the staff here are so lovely and welcoming. The location is second to none. (This is why I have given 3 stars instead of 1.) However, I was most underwhelmed by the food. The salad I received was just rocket and canned sweetcorn... With some tasteless mushy tomato slices and dry cucumber that seemed to have been sliced long ago. A dreadful and bizarre combination for a salad. One would expect a mixture of salad leaves, fresh tomatoes, fresh cucumber, red onion, olives, grapes, toasted seeds, .. Etc, Options are endless with salad. The burger meat seemed extremely low quality. The bacon, cheese and pickles were nice. But the burger reminded me of one you would get frozen from a supermarket. My friend had the chicken and avacado 'salad'. She said the chicken was bland and the avacado came mashed in a ramekin and seemed to have been diluted. She also got the rocket and sweetcorn 'salad'. So, sadly neither of us could eat our lunch. This place has such potential. Brilliant staff. Exquisite location. If you could up your game with the menu options and food quality it would be extremely beneficial to you and your customers.

Lovely place for lunch before or after going out on the boats. Can het the odd snobby group who are loud and entitled but we are dangerously close to Harrogate.

Had a little bit of a wait but then was asked if we wouldn’t mind sitting inside what we did view was of the river and we watched the rowing boats ,food was amazing nice and hot and chips to die for,staff friendly and happy to help and would definitely go back if ever in the area again .

Long wait outside, then told a 20 minute wait for food. Disappointing and unfriendly staff. The cafe across the road was far more accommodating and friendly

We arrived as a group of 7, plus a dog. We were welcomed in and chose to sit inside due to the high chance of rain! Luckily the moment we got settled inside is when the rain started! We sat beside the huge windows and watched the boaters go up and down the river, very entertaining! We had a mixture of drink, coffees, fizzy drinks, tea, ginger beers etc. All very good Food we also had a mixture of sandwiches, main meals, burgers, salad etc. Again all very good Menu seems a little limited but still all very good quality and everyone enjoyed their food The place itself was very clean Staff were extremely attentive and this was great! Great spot to people watch with a brew!!

Beautiful location, food was pretty terrible but due to hight tourist turnover they will probably not improve, you will go once and not go back for food again. Shame because location is stunning.

Just had coffee and biscuits but you can't beat sitting next to river in summer

Visited here many times, best cafe in Knaresbrough. Great sitting outside watching the boats on the river. Delicious food and service , friendly staff.

Enjoyed lunch sat outside watching people on the river rowing . Excellent service from staff . Food was lovely

Fantastic food and beautiful scenery! We waited probably 20 mins to get in but well worth it. The food was delicious and especially eating with the view of the river/bridge and people canoeing. Would definitely recommend. Food was slightly costly but you pay for the view as well. 9/10 👍🏻📸

Top quality cafe with a lovely view. The customer service and drinks and cakes absolutely gorgeous. Highly recommend a visit when in Knaresborough.

Lovely spot on the river. Stopped for lunch - it’s a busy spot so a small wait to get a table but we’ll worth it. Great lunch and reasonably priced for such a prime spot. Service was great.

Perfect location. We sat outside and got a little forgotten about by the staff who served everyone around us. Eventually I asked if we could order and then after that the experience was much better. Food was delicious and access to the boats is a lovely touch.

At the end of a bike ride, this is everything you're looking for... Stunning setting with moored boats and river, gently lapping them, duck sail lazily by, instant and friendly service and delicious traditional and imaginative dishes. Perfect way to start the day.

Idyllic location, extremely friendly and helpful staff and great coffee.. Perfect.

I arrived at the cafe on my mobility scooter and my scooter was carried in and out when we left. The food was good and service excellent. Great to get treated so well. Thanks

When we decide to have a trip off to Knaresborough, we know exactly what it'll entail - a lovely walk by the river, lunch at the Marigold and more riverside walking. We've been coming to the Marigold for over five years and always get a lovely welcome, as well as a warm welcome and treats for our dog Clio. The menu is a little bit different from other places but with old favourites too and the portions are generous. Top good food and lovely staff off with a fabulous view of the river and hours of entertainment watching how people really don't understand how to row a boat (the right way round!) and not collide with each other... with the occasional natural rower putting them to shame and it's the best day out.

Lovely place to eat. Friendly staff, beautiful view, super menu too. All the food was fabulous, 7 of us ate a selection of meat and vegi dishes and all were lovely, but there has to be special mention about the vegan burgers - absolutely gorgeous! Best tasting ever! Recommend to all.

Very testy Clean Stuff Everything OK

Visited with my sister and nice whi were here from Australia. Proud to take them out in Yorkshire. This was the ideal setting. Cake was delicious.

Great food and plenty of it.served freshly prepared.

Hired boats - good fun and relatively affordable. Bring a watch - if you go over the time limit you get fined!

An absolute institution on the town. Always a good place to visit. Excellent service, good food and drink, and the best location you could wish for.

Often stop here for a breakfast with a view

Called in for coffee and a cake, both excellent. Would recommend

Such a lovely little cafe next to the river with a range of snacks/ light lunches. Thoroughly enjoyed it here with a lovely view too. I only wish they did milkshakes!

The only redeeming quality of this place is the location and the view it offers. Service doesn’t exist, which is ok. Food is bad, boring, tasteless and expensive for what it is. Places like this will continue to prosper because of where they are, regardless of what they putting on the plate.