York hotels

Brimming with Edwardian charm, York’s only five-star hotel was once the headquarters of the influential North Eastern Railway Company. The unique blend of heritage features and modern luxury makes this hotel my top pick for a luxurious stay in York.
It sits in a prime location in the historic center within walking distance of the medieval walls and main shopping streets. Amenities are what you might expect of a five-star stay, with accommodating staff and porters ready to assist with bags, local dining tips and concierge requests.
The opulent on-site spa is housed inside former vaults and features a surprisingly large 14-meter heated swimming pool, whirlpool and dry sauna. Food-wise, you can feast on modern-British dishes at award-winning The Rise restaurant or opt for swanky fine dining at The Legacy. To wind down, I recommend you sink into a plush chair in the velvet-adorned whisky lounge and browse the extensive drinks menu featuring over 100 spirits.

The Hotel Du Vin & Bistro York is a former 19th-century orphanage that’s been thoughtfully repurposed into a Grade II-listed boutique lodging. Located in one of my favorite areas of York for appreciating architecture – the Mount neighborhood, Hotel Du Vin is in excellent company. Surrounded by grand Victorian houses and leafy streets, it’s a residential-feeling stay that’s still close to the city.
Décor bears the uniformity of Hotel Du Vin properties, with a refined color palette and luxurious furnishings that inject character into historic spaces and nooks. Rooms and suites are individually decorated and feature the period hallmarks of a Georgian House and feature unique wine-themed touches.
The Elegant Bistro du Vin is decked with faux greenery and is where the hotel shines, with brasserie-style dining with classic French cuisine and an impressive wine list. For stays Monday to Thursday, order two or three courses from their special price prix fixe menu and save money on dinner.

Set on twenty acres of manicured parklands, Middlethorpe Hall and Spa offer a swish countryside escape just a ten-minute drive from York’s city center. Initially built in 1699 and leased to famed diarist Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, was saved from dereliction by Historic House Hotels in the 1980s and gifted to the National Trust in 2008, the property has transformed from a neglected estate into one of the most luxurious hotels in York.
Design-wise, it’s British country manor vibes throughout, and each of the 29 rooms has an individual feel and small touches – including fresh flowers. Expect antique furniture, plush fabrics and oil paintings in comfortable lodgings.
Their secluded spa is one of my preferred wellness spots in York, with rejuvenating health and beauty therapies and a large indoor pool offering views of the private garden. Remember to feast on the gourmet tasting menu and enjoy a candle-lit dinner for two in the award-winning restaurant.

The award-winning Grays Court Hotel in York has a distinguished history dating back to the Norman era and has entertained many regal visitors since 1091. Considered the oldest continuously occupied building in Britain, inside, you’ll find uniquely crafted en-suite bedrooms with vistas ranging from verdant gardens to the epic spires of York Minster. Located by the city’s ancient walls, it occupies an enviable position in the center and is close to York’s best attractions.
Rooms vary in size, and decor is sympathetic to the hotel’s refined nature – heritage antiques, four poster beds and free-standing copper baths add to the luxe vibe, while neural tones and soft lighting ensure a restful slumber.
Seasonal, garden-to-plate fine dining is a big draw and has garnered their Bow Room Restaurant multiple accolades – including 3 AA Rosettes and a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide. Order a wine flight with their multi-course tasting menu and let the attentive staff guide you through the pairings.

Located in York’s coolest medieval haunt, Walmgate, the red-bricked Hotel Indigo York is surrounded by hip delis, restaurants, and vintage stores.The hotel’s interior celebrates the city’s cultural and industrial heritage with nostalgic nods to York’s historic chocolate industry. Its upbeat design incorporates wood paneling, vintage photographs and creative artwork hung on exposed brick walls.
Modern amenities are found throughout Hotel Indigo’s 103 rooms, and plush bedding and spa-like showers provide a welcome respite after exploring the city. The on-site bar is well-stocked with artisan gins and locally brewed ales that can be paired with piping-hot fresh pizzas and late-night snacks. Signature cocktails are shaken to perfection and perfect for a boozy kick after a big day out.
Order their generous open-faced omelet or American-style pancakes drizzled in maple syrup to set you up for the day. Don’t forget to look out for the welcome gift inside your room!

The Grade II-listed No.1 by GuestHouse has had multiple uses over its 150-year lifetime, transforming from laundrette to residential flats before its eventual rebirth as an upscale York hotel. Located in the quiet suburb of Clifton, it’s a short stroll to some of my favorite city spots – including the York Art Gallery and the Minster.
The hotel bears all the hallmarks of a Georgian-era house, with sash windows, soaring ceilings and a central staircase, adding extra grandeur to this luxurious York hotel.Scandi-style rooms vary in size and design, though most feature rug-topped wooden floors. The Bootham Suites – formerly the library and drawing room, are the grandest room offerings with massive four-poster beds and private balconies.
A boutique spa is found in the subterranean arches of the hotel and features five treatment rooms. My recommendation? Locate the hotel resident’s pantry: it’s laden with complimentary Yorkshire goodies and sweet treats for the taking.

One of York’s more unique hotels, the independently owned Bishop And The Bison Hotel offers an intimate, home-style stay in the Clifton suburbs. There’s even a resident cat to play with. Initially built in 1875, the property was meticulously renovated in 2020, with décor and furnishings carefully selected by owners Jonathan and Anthony.
Drawing inspiration from travel they took in the United States before they settled in York, the hotel merges Victorian-period elements with playful shades of Americana. The award-winning hotel has eight individually named rooms, each featuring luxurious wallpapers and contemporary American art.
The onsite Presidents Lounge offers an off-beat communal space for guests to mingle and enjoy pre-dinner drinks. Order an indulgent champagne breakfast and enjoy it in the cutesy courtyard. Breakfast is taken seriously here, with an adaptable à la carte menu packed with locally sourced products and filling dishes. I highly recommend the full English!

Located opposite the centuries-old York Minster, The Dean Court Hotel offers impressive views and easy access to this medieval Yorkshire landmark. You’re right in the tourist hub here; attractions, shops, and famed Shambles are all within walking distance.
Transformed from clergy accommodation into a modern hotel, this Victorian row of red-brick townhouses has contemporary British décor alongside its maze of corridors, stairs, and nooks. And if you are traveling with your dog, you will be happy to know that the Dean Court Inn’s bar is one of York’s most dog-friendly venues, featuring complimentary doggie treats and a whimsical à la carte dog menu.
Food-wise, expect British gastro-pub classics served in the hotel’s relaxed dining room – think freshly cooked fish and chips, cottage pie, and Sunday roast. Breakfast is filling and straightforward, and the full English is highly recommended to set you up for a day of exploring.

Near the River Ouse is a bundle of Grade II-listed Georgian buildings, repurposed into the prize-winning Middletons Hotel. The historic property has changed hands several times, and many are named after influential residents and former guests – including former York Major Sir Joseph Terry and English comic icon Charlie Chaplin.
Middleton’s 56 rooms and suites are spread across the buildings and range in style, size and price. Nearly all include small comforts like crunchy biscuits, fresh milk for tea and robes. Families will also appreciate the spacious cottage rooms, featuring open-plan layouts, barn-door room dividers and bunks for the kids.
The hotel’s contemporary restaurant, with its exposed-brick walls, offers a sociable setting for casual dining and a local tipple. Their extensive cooked-to-order breakfast includes a filling Northern Breakfast, waffles and smashed avo on toast. Enjoy a beautifully presented afternoon tea created by their talented pastry chefs.