Great British Food Awards 2026: Yorkshire tearooms Bettys wins gold award for its Yorkshire shortbread biscuits

At the annual Great British Food Awards Bettys tearooms has achieved a gold award for its Yorkshire shortbread biscuits.

The winners of the Great British Food Awards this year were announced on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

The awards were launched in 2014 to celebrate the best artisanal produce in the food and drink industry.

The judging panel comprises some of the most acclaimed chefs, food critics and influencers in the country, and each product undergoes a rigorous judging process before the winners are announced.

Gold badges are awarded to the best product in each category - food and drink that meets the highest standards of the judging criteria across the board, from taste and texture to appearance.

Around 10 per cent of entries make the grade, Betty’s won in the Sweet Biscuits category which was judged by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.

Cherish said: “A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste.

“The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat. Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread.

“I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea. Love it!”

Bettys Shortbread Biscuits have been made using the same simple recipe for 40 years and have become a popular favourite with customers.

Real butter and almost a century of baking knowhow creates perfectly rich biscuits.

Head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, Gavin Johnson, said: “We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.

“This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.

“Most importantly, the award belongs to talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.

“Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations.”