Bettys arrived in the city at the turn of the decade having already forged a reputation across God's own county. It would enjoy a 40 year relationship with customers before eventually leaving the city. Its Lands Lane cafe closed on March 30, 1974. Announcing the closure, Betty’s Cafe Ltd., said: “In some ways this desirable location has become a disadvantage because rentals have risen enormously. We have to face the fact that the site is too expensive for a cafe. The decision to close at this particular time has been brought about by another consideration, that of public safety in case of fire.” Enjoy these rarely-seen photos charting its history in Leeds. READ MORE: 34 of the best photos take you back to Leeds in 1974 LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
1. Bettys in Leeds
Did you visit Bettys back in the day? | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
2. Bettys in Leeds
Customers entered through the shop which was decorated with green marble and French walnut. | Bettys Photo: Bettys
3. Bettys in Leeds
The large cafe, spread over four floors, was located on the corner of Commercial Street and Lands Lane, one of the busiest thoroughfares in the city. | Bettys Photo: Bettys
4. Bettys in Leeds
The first floor cafe, serving morning coffee afternoon tea and light lunches, was decorated in an ivory and blue colour scheme with blue-tinted mirrors. | Bettys Photo: Bettys
5. Bettys in Leeds
On the second floor was a room decorated in apple green and black where lunches and high teas were served. | Bettys Photo: Bettys
6. Bettys in Leeds
In addition to the city centre branch, Bettys opened a coffee shop on Street Lane, Roundhay in 1959. | Bettys Photo: Bettys