The Best Guesthouses in York

York has so much to do that often all you want is a simple and friendly place to stay rather than the fuss of a big hotel. Fortunately, the city has a good range of high-quality guest houses and B&Bs, usually in quiet residential areas yet still within walking distance of - or on a good bus route to - the city centre. The best guesthouses in York don't skimp on comfort - some have gardens or attractive sitting-rooms - and all the ones we've selected pride themselves on their breakfasts. In our opinion, these are often better than many a four-star hotel.

For great value

• One of York’s best-value guest houses is Bar Convent. This historic building - England's oldest living convent with a hidden chapel - is close to the train station and just outside the city walls so everything is within walking distance. Rooms are airy, and spick-and-span clean, and the made-to-order breakfasts will set you up for the day. There’s even a kitchen if you want to rustle up your own meals, plus a lovely sheltered garden.

For the design

• For a funkier take on a guest house, take a look at The Bishop and The Bison. The owners of this eight bedroom B&B love a bit of Americana and Victoriana in equal measure. So you can expect eclectic design throughout with statement wallpapers and fabulous artwork championing up-and-coming artist from both the local area and rural US townships. 

For luxury

• In the smart area of Bootham, on a quiet residential street between the river and the Minster, 23 St Mary’s is a luxurious Victorian townhouse B&B. Rooms are pretty with country-house-style fabrics, and there’s a large inviting sitting-room for recovering after a day of sight-seeing. There are family rooms, too, and parking is available nearby.

For the location

• Located just minutes from the historic York city walls B+B York offers fresh contemporary rooms. Unfussy and with professional staff, this property is an easy place to use as a base for exploring the city on foot.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include our pick of hotels in York city centre,
• or our full range of the best places to stay in York.
• Alternatively you can contact a friendly guru for advice.

  • The Bishop & The Bison York 8 rooms from AU$235

    
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    Local exploring  -  Well located right in the centre of York, ideal for getting to know the city highlights

    City Style  -  With its smart accommodation and luxury touches this is a chic city base

    Sights nearby  -  15 minute walk to the very centre of town

    Short break

    

    A smart boutique B&B in leafy Clifton, just 15 minutes from the centre of York. Eight individually designed rooms reflect the owners love of Victoriana and Americana! Think statement William Morris style wallpapers, luxury bed linens and toiletries. Stylish stay that's perfect for a York city break. See More

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  • Bar Convent Guesthouse York 19 rooms from AU$205

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Unwind in this tranquil convent, enjoy afternoon tea in the walled garden and read up on the town's history in the library

    Quirky  -  The living convent is open to guests, which means guests can explore the lovely gold and white Baroque chapel

    Local exploring  -  York has a huge amount of history (starting at the hotel itself) making this ideal for a cultural getaway

    Historic  -  This is England's oldest convent founded in 1686

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    A unique guesthouse in an elegant living convent. Newly refurbished comfortable rooms, a baroque chapel, Victorian garden and a glass-roofed entrance hall make this an impressive building. A cafe serves meals until high tea. Best of all is staying amongst the sisters of the convent. See More

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  • 23 St Mary's York (Yorkshire) 12 rooms from AU$188

    
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    Local exploring  -  Set in the heart of York, within walking distance from the main attractions, this hotel is perfect for local exploring

    City Style  -  Set in a heritage, Victorian townhouse with cosy interiors, this hotel has lots of local Yorkshire style

    Families  -  Family rooms are available at this hotel, making it a favourite with parents

    Great walks  -  Head into York on a long walk from this hotel and visit the main sights, including the Theatre Royal and Guildhall

    

    An elegant and peaceful townhouse B&B, a 10-minute walk from York Minster, with light and comfortable bedrooms, and a home from home atmosphere. Relax by the sitting room fireplace after a day out sightseeing; book a luxury suite for a four-poster bed. An inviting city break base. See More

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  • B+B York York 26 rooms from AU$280

    
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    Local exploring  -  Situated just a few minutes from the historic York walls this property is perfectly positioned for exploring the city by foot

    Short break  -  York has a wealth of cultural & historical sites yet it is contained in a small area making it ideal for a weekend getaway

    Families  -  A selection of family rooms that sleep up to four means this is an easy stay for families

    Sights nearby  -  Visit York's main attraction, York Minster, the impressive 1000 year-old cathedral

    

    A chic B&B offering a superb location just minutes from York's historic city walls. Light and airy rooms are simply dressed with soft hues, light pine furniture and modern bathrooms. Hearty breakfasts are served. The perfect base to explore the city on foot. See More

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Written by Helen Pickles

posted Tuesday, 7th March 2023