Booths

I have been a Booths customer since the mid-1980s and have always been impressed with their produce, customer service and the consistently high quality of their staff. Until recently I had only ever visited Booths stores in the Cumbria area, so this was my first visit to the Ilkley branch following a relocation. A few days ago I finally had the chance to call in — and I was thoroughly impressed. Access from the main road is very straightforward and the car park is exceptionally spacious. On entering the store, I was immediately struck by its size. Compared with most Booths stores I’ve visited, this one is noticeably larger. We decided the best approach was simply to walk aisle by aisle to get a feel for the layout. This took some time, not just because of the scale of the store but also due to the extensive range of products — many of which you wouldn’t typically find in standard supermarkets. Once we’d familiarised ourselves, we completed our shop with the help of several friendly and considerate members of staff. After checking out, we took our shopping to the car and then returned to enjoy a coffee and a mince pie in the café — again served with a smile, and with a nice discount thanks to the Booths card. My partner has a son who is lactose intolerant and requires gluten-free food, which can often make shopping difficult in most supermarkets. Not in this one. The range was excellent, with generous shelf space devoted to suitable products. Thank you, Mr Booth!

I was disappointed that I couldn't just go in and buy a turkey they all had to be pre ordered. But I love Booths any way. I got a family sized steak pie with real pastry too and bottom filled with real chunks of beef, no gristle or mine swimming in gravy.. It was great value for £6. The have lots of ranges from smaller producers which is always nice. But the best part was the gent on the wines. I Tried a couple of samples of dessert wines and a gin. He was knowledgeable, helpful and not pushy or condescending about wine. He just shared his knowledge. He talked to us about some largers and even explained to my husband what he was doing wrong with the Guinness gadget. Truly a warm and welcoming gent.

A very friendly shop and I love the fact that there are no self serve checkouts. You can actually meet and communicate with real (and polite) people. Good range of fruit and veg, freshly squeezed orange juice on premises, a good selection of cheese, wines and spirits. Long may they continue to give excellent service and quality food. Great cafe too!

Visit in mid November, shop is great, with good choices and attentive staff but cafe had a limited menu. I wanted a seasonal turkey and stuffing sandwich but was told they’re only available for children! Too much balsamic dressing on salad and ‘chunky’ chips had a coating on them.

Fantastic food. Great choice of quality produce. During the visit there were loads if tasting samples available great and knowledgeable staff. Plus they have Isle of Man Creamery Cheese.