Due to its rich history, York is a popular city for tourism in England. From when the Roman legions marched through the city to the Viking invasion, every era has left a historical mark where ruins and remnants can be seen today.
York boasts cobblestone pathways and haunted pubs, and unbeknownst to some, this city is also home to some of England's best luxury hotels. Visitors are privileged to enjoy luxury surroundings as they experience the culture, delicious cuisine, and history of York.
Whether you are planning a romantic weekend away or a family vacation, with York’s flurry of luxury accommodations, you’re bound to find something to suit your needs.
Below we've listed 11 of the best luxury hotels in York worth considering. Once you’ve finished, discover the Slingo lifestyle blog for some more luxury break ideas!
1 - Hotel Indigo York
Located in Walmgate near the National Railway Museum, the boutique Hotel Indigo York is at the centre of everything. Every hotel room is adorned with artwork relating to the city's rich culinary history, and you’re guaranteed to feel like you've stepped into an art gallery.
The rooms have WiFi to keep you connected, a plasma TV, and a sophisticated en suite bathroom.
This luxury hotel also has 4 wheelchair-friendly guest rooms and modified facilities to accommodate your needs.
Enjoy the local flavours of York at their bar and lounge, with an extensive bar menu. Grab a rustic pizza while sipping on a cocktail or ale, and be sure to try Hotel Indigo York's award-winning gin. Dine at No. 88 Walmgate - don’t miss out on their delicious smoked brisket taco or signature "88 Walmgate Fish and Chips" meal.
Nearby top tourist attractions like York's medieval city gates, Walmgate Bar, Old St Lawrence Church Tower, and Merchant's Adventurer Hall are just a few of the historical buildings you can tour to learn about the city's iconic past.
2 - The Churchill Hotel
Built in 1872, The Churchill Hotel is a stunning Georgian mansion just 10 minutes from York Minster in the historic city centre. Expect modern luxury in the contemporary yet stylish rooms with free WiFi, modern en suite rooms, plasma televisions, and various historical information and artefacts related to Winston Churchill.
The award-winning local Brasserie is guaranteed to alight your senses with authentic Yorkshire food and traditional British dishes. The Wellington Bar serves locally crafted ales, cocktails, and fine wines. Or you could spend an evening socialising in the hotel's beer garden - alfresco!
The Churchill Hotel is only 10 minutes from the York Racecourse, and the York Theatre Royal, York Minster and Stonegate are all within walking distance, making it an ideal base for your stay.
3 - No. 1 by GuestHouse
A few minute's walk from York Minster, No. 1 by Guesthouse is a Grade II listed regency townhouse with a proud history. There are 39 guest rooms, including the guest suites, and the guest rooms' unique character has been preserved following the historical structure of the Georgian building.
The townhouse hotel features family rooms, which are pet-friendly, so bring your kids and four-legged friends along on your holiday. Five therapy rooms are located in the cellar's natural arches, so treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment.
You can also enjoy an intimate private dining experience with the hotel's restaurant, the Bootham Room. The Bar serves up delectable drinks in the afternoons or evenings, or enjoy a selection of speciality coffees or Hebden Teas.
Taking a tour of Treasure's House, built in 1897 by Frank Greene, is recommended as you can view preserved artefacts and little treasures that can only be seen in small, private groups.
If you enjoy fresh homemade pies and pastries, ensure that you stop at The Shambles Sausage and Pie Company during your stay. Other popular tourist attractions to add to your itinerary are 2 Many Wines, the City Walls, Helston Street, and the National Railway Museum.
4 - Grays Court Hotel
Right beside York Minster, this hotel has gorgeous views of York's medieval walls. Every inch of the hotel transports you back in time, with the guest rooms decorated with antique pieces and furniture. The free-standing copper bathtubs, monsoon showers, and four-poster beds are some of the opulent features you can expect to enjoy.
You won't have to go far to dine in a recognised Michelin restaurant. The awarding-winning Bow Room restaurant serves a delicious nine-course tasting menu, and the Michelin Guide included the restaurant in its prestigious book of recommendations. Enjoy a memorable dining experience while overlooking the courtyard and York City Walls.
Enjoy sipping fine wine and having a light lunch at the hotel's Garden Bar. Here you can enjoy a selection of salads, a vegetarian platter, and a delectable selection of sweet treats and desserts.
Take a walk along the River Ouse that flows through the city, or book a guided walking tour. Popular tourist attractions include York Theatre Royal, Richard III Experience at Monk Bar, and York's Chocolate Story, all within walking distance from Grays Court Hotel.
5 - Jorvik House
Located in York city centre, Jorvik House is surrounded by many shopping complexes, York Railway station, and popular tourist attractions. This Georgian townhouse hotel was built in 1750 and overlooks the 11th Century St. Olaf's Church, the main entrance to the Museum Garden, and the remnants of St. Mary's Abbey.
Each guest room in the hotel has been custom-designed. They have been decorated in the Scandanavian style to honour York's Viking history. The en suites have been designed to ensure relaxation and a healthy place to retreat. Each room also has WiFi, a lounge area, and a complimentary coffee station.
Breakfast can be delivered to your rooms, or you can enjoy it at the on-site restaurant. You can also enjoy traditional Yorkshire cuisine at Roots York or a pub meal at The Minster Inn.
If you are up for spending a day away from this gorgeous hotel, Branham Park is just a 30-minute drive. If you prefer to be closer to Jorvik House, Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms, York Minster, and the York Theatre Royal are within walking distance.
6 - Clementine's Town House Hotel BW Premier Collection
Clementine's Town House Hotel is located on St. Peter's Grove, on secluded private grounds. The 27 rooms blend modern style with sophisticated Victorian features, enhancing the hotel's charm. Every room has its own private bathroom, free WiFi, tea and coffee station, and is adorned in antique furniture.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast in the privacy of your room or in the townhouse hotel's breakfast rooms. The hotel also serves afternoon tea that can be enjoyed in the secluded back garden. Clementine's Town House Hotel has a bar that proudly serves renowned York gin and boasts a great selection of beers and wine to choose from.
As part of the BW Premier Collection, Marmadukes Town House Hotel is just a few minutes down the road, too. You can also easily reach the Shambles shopping centre and the city centre on foot. And 20 minutes away, you will easily find York Railway Station.
7 - Moxy York
The luxury Moxy York is located on Black Horse Lane, close to York Minster. This modern chic hotel has family rooms, rooms with a private terrace, and private en suites. Each room has access to free WiFi, concierge service on call 24/7, and private living quarters.
The Moxy York is a popular hotel destination for its Girls' Nights. The Moxy bar is a social hub where locals and travellers meet and enjoy cocktails or pints in the beer garden. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner can be served in your rooms or enjoyed in the Moxy Bar.
The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford International Airport, meaning visiting from further afield is still simple. Just a stone's throw away from Moxy York is Pairings Wine Bar, Quilt Museum and Gallery, and Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms. You should also add these nearby top attractions to your bucket list: Richard III Experience at Monk Bar, York's Chocolate Story, and York's Christmas Market.
8 - The Grand Hotel and Spa
The Grand Hotel and Spa is located in the heart of York city centre. This is York's only five-star luxury hotel and offers contemporary chic rooms, suites, and an opulent vaulted spa. Every room is unique in its own luxurious way, however, all guests can expect Egyptian cotton linens, high-speed WiFi, a television, slippers, and a bathroom with Molton Brown bath products.
The hotel has a luxury vaulted spa with a 14-metre indoor swimming pool with jets, a spa whirlpool, a Nordic dry sauna, an aromatic steam room, and a relaxation room. Indulge in various wellness treatments, including a soothing body wrap, facial treatments, and a full body massage. There are also tailored treatments for everyone and a gym to enjoy a workout.
The Legacy Restaurant will spoil your tastebuds with an eight-course meal carefully curated to give guests a fine dining experience. The Rise Restaurant, Terrace and Bar provide guests with authentic British cuisine and a wide selection of wines, cocktails and beers. The 1906 Bar serves premium whiskey, signature cocktails, and decadent Champagne to tickle the senses.
The Jorvik Viking Centre, Stonegate, and Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms are all nearby tourist waiting for you to explore. Further afield, guests can visit The Roman Bath Museum, York Army Museum, and York Mansion House.
9 - Middlethorpe Hall & Spa
Middlethorpe Hall and Spa was built in 1699 and is situated less than 3 kilometres from York's vibrant city centre. This picturesque boutique hotel overlooks York Minster, nestled on 20 acres of land. It's the perfect balance between the city and the countryside.
All of the 29 rooms and suites are decorated in a country style and feature antique furniture and fine art pieces. The cosy rooms also have a fantastic view of the hotel grounds. Each room and suite has an en suite, bathrobes, and complimentary toiletries.
Impressively, Middlethorpe Hall and Spa's on-site restaurant has been awarded 2AA Rosettes and Restaurant of the Year awards. Guests can expect al-fresco dining indoors or on the grounds’ terrace.
Be prepared for a treat in the morning when you can choose between a full English breakfast, a Continental breakfast, or a delicious Yorkshire breakfast. Afternoon tea is served in their historical drawing rooms, and you can choose a Traditional or Champagne Afternoon Tea.
The Spa is secluded from the rest of the hotel and offers a variety of spa treatments, from their signature holistic treatments to specialised massages for people suffering from cancer. The Spa amenities include a steam room, sauna, and an indoor swimming pool.
The hotel regularly holds events on the hotel grounds. When booking your stay, browse their website to book any events you would like to attend. If you are a big Downtown Abbey fan, remember you can book a guided tour of the York locations where the television series was filmed. Furthermore, popular attractions include York's Chocolate Story, York Minster, and the Yorkshire Air Museum.
10 - Hotel Du Vin & Bistro York
Hotel Du Vin is located in the Mount area, just outside the City walls, and there are 44 guest rooms and suites in this 19th Century Grade II- listed Mansion. Each room features Egyptian cotton, hand-sprung mattresses and en suites with deep tubs or showers. Every room has its own unique layout, some with an open-plan bathroom and others with a private en suite.
The Bistro restaurant serves traditional French fare and hearty European cuisines. Afternoon Tea is a mixture of sweet and tart, and Hotel Du Vin does their best to accommodate guests with special food requirements.
Don't miss out on Sunday Lunch at Bistro Du Vin which includes a traditional roast with locally sourced produce. Experience the hotel's private dining, including canapes, fine wines, and a special menu for children.
The hotel is pet-friendly, and furry friends can enjoy a free bed and their own bowl. The top attractions you can enjoy on foot are York Minster, York Dungeon, and the Grand Opera House. Further afield, you will find Clifford's Tower, Fairfax House, and Bedern Hall.
11 - Plum and Partridge Husthwaite
Plum and Partridge is an intimate and much smaller hotel in York. With only nine bedrooms located in the village of Husthwaite, this charming hotel is ideal for solo travellers, a romantic getaway, or a quiet weekend away.
Every room is cosy, charming, and decorated to feel like you are in the countryside. All rooms have a television, complimentary WiFi, wet room en suites, and a desk.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast from the buffet or a delicious continental breakfast. For lunch or dinner, try the soup of the day or the slow-roasted pork belly, sirloin steak, or oven-baked salmon. Wash your meal down with sparkling champagne, a selection of wines, or cocktails.
The Plum and Partridge is a particularly popular destination for women. This is down to the fact that they have a special package for girls' night that includes a bottle of prosecco upon your arrival, a two-course meal with a pre-dinner cocktail, and various games and DVDs to enjoy in your room.
This hotel has plenty of other activities to offer its hotel guests too. These include horse riding, a day spent perfecting your golf swing at the local golf club, and cycling. If you looking to explore Husthwaite, book a tour of The Church of St. Nicholas, visit Stacy Moore Art Gallery, or make a new friend at Beacon Alpacas.
FAQS about York
Can you go on the river in York?
While swimming in the River Ouse is prohibited, you can enjoy a river cruise with City Cruise. For £12.50, you get to follow the routes of the Vikings and Romans and learn a little more about the fascinating history of York.
How do you get around York?
York has excellent public transport links, and it is pretty easy to get around the city by bus, train, or taxi. If you prefer to hire a car during the peak season, expect the roads to be a little congested. York is a small city and a popular tourist attraction; expect heavy traffic during peak hours.
Is there a beach near York?
Cayton Bay Beach and Scarborough Beach are the closest beaches to the city and are approximately an hour's drive from York. The best and quickest way to the beach is to travel by car. Alternatively, there are trains and buses available. However, expect your travel time to be extended by 30 to 40 minutes compared to driving by car.
How long is the York walking tour?
There are numerous guided walking tours to many of York's top attractions. The City Walls experience tour can take up to 1 hour, whereas a tour of the City of York can be 3 hours long. It all boils down to which guided tour you prefer.
Find the Perfect Luxury Hotel in York
If you love anything historical and are after a romantic break away, York is an amazing city to visit. There is a lot to explore, from unique food outlets to museums and galleries.
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