In one of Britain's most historic cities, these accommodations range from rural estates to cutting-edge newcomers who are revolutionizing the hospitality industry.
What's not to love about the charming (old) city that consistently ranks first among the greatest cities in the UK? Especially as York's hotels keep raising the bar to draw upscale staycationers.
York's rich history, easily accessible attractions that can be seen on foot, developing food scene, and calendar of events make it an alluring weekend getaway is a short train ride from London.
Several highly design-focused, avant-garde hotels and spas opened in York in 2022, elevating the city to the status of an international player. It took some time for York to strike the right mix between classical and modern luxury. Also, there are more planned; stay tuned. We had to be picky because York has a total of 74 hotels, but here are our top picks for the eight great hotels we believe you should be aware of.
“8 of the best hotels in York featuring @MiddlethorpeHal https://t.co/tXEE1YBJvN @cntraveller”
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The Middletons Inn
The position of Middletons on Cromwell Road, inside the old city walls, is perfect for exploring York's historic center and the neighborhood of Bishy Road. Don't be frightened off by the fact that this attractive, old hotel was formerly a hospital; it is a part of the community.
This cozy local lodging with a terrific pricing point is made up of a group of six lovely Grade II-listed houses with 56 rooms (of the non-medical kind). The cottages with Terry's chocolate orange motif that are spacious and fashionable should be reserved. They are carefully constructed to provide enough room for the entire family and are more akin to large flats. These include bunk beds (first come, first served! ), gift bags, and concealed chocolate oranges as an incentive for the youngsters.
Breakfast is offered in a light, airy dining area and consists of hot, savory dishes including the northern breakfast, American pancakes, and pastries that are all thoughtfully presented. Try the well-known Sunday brunch for the enormous Yorkshire puddings and copious amounts of gravy; then, split the sticky toffee pudding.
Address: Cromwell Road, York, YO1 6DS, Middletons Hotel
No. 1, York
GuestHouse is a popular hotel brand for a reason. It was founded by a trio of brothers, Tristan, James, and Tom, to design at-home, wonder-filled stays in cities. The exceptional hospitality blend is further enhanced by the whimsy and playfulness of each individually picked hotel, as well as the luxurious accents, top-notch cuisine, and incredibly friendly employees. Visit this York hotel is like unwrapping a treasure trove because of its 39 opulent guestrooms and three breathtaking suites.
The event is housed in a stunning Grade II-listed Regency townhouse in upscale, green Bootham. Once inside, the design magic starts. Observe the grand staircase with violin-covered walls, the Marmalade Lounge with its sunny gold and saffron-frenzied decor, plump sofas, and key-adorned coffee tables, the Yorkshire Parkin cocktail (try it; you won't regret it), and the handcrafted dolls house at the front desk that holds the room keys.
In the meanwhile, the rooms include imposing four-posters with Sealy mattresses and 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton linen, stunning high windows dressed in superb sash draperies, and the White Rose of York, a symbol for the city of York, is exquisitely woven into the wall art (book either the Bootham or Clifton suite). The trademark in-room doll homes that double as coffee cupboards, Crossley record players, and access to the beloved community treat pantry are unique features that will bring out your inner child.
Try the warm and comfortable scones with gooey jam and heavy cream with a cup of tea from the comprehensive menu for the best afternoon tea in the lounge. The jacuzzi in the basement is just fantastic. Take some Pinks Boutiques peppermint oil home. The tranquil, lavender-scented treatment rooms, the skilled masseurs, and their healing hand's radiate tranquility. Wake up to a breakfast of pastries and hot dishes after a restful night. Breakfast in bed is also nothing short of spectacular.
Address: 1 Clifton, No. 1 by GuestHouse, York, YO30 6AA
Middlethorpe Hall and Spa
Middlethorpe Hall, a luxurious country home hotel and spa built during the reign of William III, has a Bridgerton-like appearance upon arrival. It offers the advantage of being away from the noise and bustle of the city while still being close to the activity because it is located near the picturesque neighborhood of Bishopthorpe just outside the city and only a short distance from York Racecourse. Who, though, needs to go too far?
29 rooms and suites are available. The charming Victorian cottage apartment, which has a garden, is perfect for family vacations. The bamboo massage is available at the charmingly little spa, which also features a pool and a health center.
The two-AA-Rosette restaurant is run by head chef Ashley Binder and pastry chef Paul Harrison. It is a more sophisticated setting with a good dress requirement. Make a reservation for the tasting menu or a traditional afternoon tea on the grounds. Blissing out in the Bridgerton bubble is simple because the area is surrounded by 20 acres of lovely gardens and parkland and a variety of nearby hikes, including the river walk to Bishopthorpe Castle.
Address: Bishopthorpe Road, York, YO23 2GB, Middlethorpe Hall, and Spa
Malmaison
Although York's Mal is a member of a network, it is certainly not your typical Malmaison. In its previous existence, it was an insurance building from the retro-70s. The outdated structure has undergone a complete design makeover and has been transformed into the 150-room, vivaciously colored Malmaison York.
Enter the golden elevator to travel to Sora Sky Bar, which is located high above the city. While there, have delectable sushi platters and stylish sundowners while taking in breathtaking views of York and its surrounding areas.
You may settle into the plush mattresses and sofas in the hotel's renowned, design-forward rooms and suites. A trip to the spa for a massage allows you to detox before you retox on York's greatest rooftop terrace bar thanks to the additional treatment rooms for some pampering. A hop, skip and jump from York's center, the incredibly convenient location is ideal for getting together with friends because it has a clubbier vibe.
Address: Malmaison, 2 Rougier Street, York, YO90 1UU
The vices
A stay at The Vices, York's first upscale private house hotel, will inspire your elaborate home renovations once you've lusted over every last design element. It took four years to transform the red-brick beauty, which had previously served as a police station, into a place that is completely wonder-filled and where you'll want to be locked up.
The romantic Italy-inspired masterpiece directed by the Italian dream duo Moreno Carbone and Daniel Curro is tucked away in the Fulford neighborhood but is only a short walk from the city. It features three magnificent high-spec apartments that beg to be reserved for you and your lover. No detail has been overlooked in this artistic wonderland, which features luxurious furnishings, marble, and materials from Italy's finest craftsmen creatively styled suites with Japanese influences, including gorgeously upholstered beds and delectable underfloor and wall heating, and enormous bathrooms that you could easily get lost in.
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Chef Luke Sanderson, who made the Michelin Guide this year, is in charge of the wonderful hidden gem of a restaurant called Allium at The Vices. The innovative seasonal tasting menu experience, featuring regional ingredients (Yorkshire partridge), and organic wines paired with them from expert sommelier Daniel—the other half of the visionary duo of owners—is not to be missed. You'll leave with a vintners education and may even start to doubt your uninteresting wine selection after visiting their lovely Wine Library space. But really, don't spend time looking for a fancy hotel for a romantic night; simply reserve it right away.
Address: The Vices York, 15 Alma Terrace, York, YO10 4DQ
The Grand
The Grand, a five-star hotel in York, previously served as the North Eastern Railway's corporate offices. Its impressive façade is a genuine city icon. Built-in 1906, the hotel's design and architecture have been lovingly renovated to reflect the elegance of the Edwardian era.
The hotel excels in providing a fantastic hotel experience with all the accouterments in the form of classical grandeur. There are 207 luxurious, pleasant rooms and suites with high ceilings. Try a historic suite. Complicated, long, twisting halls lead to the airy modern restaurant Rise and the super health suite.
Make sure to taste Legacy's decadent eight-course tasting menu feast; it's perfect for a special occasion. With cutting-edge, forward-thinking cuisine made with Yorkshire's finest local ingredients, Ahmed Abdalla's newest and most renowned eatery is an exciting newcomer to the food scene. The clever architecture of Legacy honors its forebears, York's avant-garde engineers, and architects.
Nothing is ever too much difficulty, and the level of service at the hotel is a real selling factor. Ask the amiable and entertaining hotel doormen for advice if you require local knowledge; they are actual authorities in the area and many have worked there for years.
Address: The Grand, Station Rise, York, YO1 6GD
On Grays Court
Go down quiet Chapter House Street to discover a pleasant surprise hidden away: Grays Court, one of York's most renowned and opulent hotels. It provides one of the best settings in the city, being close to Treasurer's House and York Minster. Grays offers old-school luxury in spades, which is what makes it such a priceless and exclusive stay.
See the beautiful hotel entrance and the thriving green gardens bordered by York's Bar Walls among the old cobblestones. When you walk inside the opulent hotel, the cozy lounge is lavish and alluring—imagine plush leather seats, throws, and games by the fire. Choose the Somerset out of the 12 rooms since it has a big king bed, a cozy sitting space, and views of York Minster and its gardens.
As the dinner bell sounds, either arrange a tasting menu or head to the bar for a York Gin and a Ploughman's. The fruit is the star of Chef Adam Jackson's dramatic dining experience. Reserve a seat for lunch on the hotel's garden patio throughout the summer. The old walls, a piece of York's history still standing, are a desirable location for a treat.
Address: Chapter House Street, York, YO1 7JH, Grays Court Hotel
Yorkshire Spa Resort
The Yorkshire Spa Retreat will be your new spa weekend destination when it debuts in November 2022 after much anticipation. The brand-new spa is the ideal country getaway from York since it has a stunning health suite, a wild swim pond, luxurious cottages, and excellent treatments. While it is located in the Vale of York, in Nawton, it seems like you are in the middle of the countryside: tranquility is a true gift. York can be reached in approximately 40 minutes.
The North Yorkshire Moors, where YSR is located, is bordered by woods, and national parks make up about 40% of the region. The 14 five-star lodges are incredibly cozy, roomy, and well-equipped for big parties (reserve one with a hot tub), with Barbeque pits and outside sitting spaces. Of course, visitors have access to the elegant health suite.
We adored the Himalayan salt room, herbal steam room, and eucalyptus-infused sauna once we were inside the wellness suite. Massage appointments must be made. Experience the glass complexion facial or the honey butter connection massage, both of which use Tribe 517's calming, fragrant lotions and potions.
Try the pan-fried fish in mussel sauce at The Dome when it's time to eat, and for cheese aficionados, don't miss out on YSR's excellent cheese boards. You'll go home daydreaming of waking up every morning to the sound of birdsong and a Beadlam Grange coffee.
Address: Yorkshire Spa Retreat, Gale Lane, York, YO62 7SD
Read about the best restaurants in York.