York’s impressive living heritage, charming medieval streets and beautiful Gothic cathedral have made it one of the UK’s top three cities to visit. There’s a stellar selection of accommodation in the historic city, from cosy B&Bs to award-winning smart hotels fit for a whole range of budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in York offers something for everyone — whether you’re keen to immerse yourself in the city’s rich past or dreaming of a trendy city break in a modern design hotel.

Some of our York Collections:

• Best Spa Hotels in York
• Most Romantic Hotels in York
• Best Hotels for York Racecourse
• Best Luxury Hotels in York
• Best Guesthouses in York
• Best Pet Friendly Hotels in York
• Best Hotels in York with a Hot Tub
• Best Pubs with Rooms in York
• Best York Hotels with Pools
• Best Family Hotels in York
• Best Boutique Hotels in York
• Best Hotels in Bootham
• Best Country House Hotels in York
• Best Hotels near York City Centre
• Top York Hotels with Parking
• Hotels in York City Centre

A history buff’s dream, much of York’s city centre is medieval: a network of cobbled lanes — known as ‘The Shambles’ — promises surprises around every corner. Set within imposing 13th-century walls, the area is pedestrianised during the day (8am - 4pm) – ideal for idyllic exploratory ambles. Discover independent shops brimming with everything from books and vintage clothing to artwork and chocolates, then duck into a cafe for a well-deserved slice of cake, before rounding off the evening in one of the city’s lively bars. Spectacular York Minster is not to be missed — it ranks amongst the world’s most striking cathedrals.

York is a wonderful year-round destination with a fabulous programme of annual events — from the Viking Festival in February, to the Literary Festival in March and the gorgeous Christmas Fair in December. Time your trip accordingly, and peruse our pick of the best places to stay in York to ensure that you’re heading back to somewhere brilliant after a superb day of cobbled strolls.

The Best Places to Stay in York

For a city break

• The Principal York is a classic Victorian station hotel with elegant rooms, some of which offer superb views over the Minster. Set in lovely gardens (perfect for afternoon tea!), this is a smart spot both for travellers arriving by train, and for those eager to experience a verdant retreat right in the heart of the city.

• Dean Court Hotel occupies prime position, just opposite the Minster. Chic modern interiors and smart black-tiled bathrooms are tucked behind an attractive traditional facade.

• Hotel Indigo York has a funky semi-industrial vibe, with quirky design touches, a warm welcome and a true Yorkshire influence to both food and ambience. Whilst still within the old city walls, this property is on a quieter, trendy street in an area known for its eateries and vintage shops.

• Grays Court oozes history — the building dates from the 11th century and is likely the city’s oldest lived-in house. It also occupies an enviable location between the Minster and the medieval walls. Bedrooms are airy and classic, and the hidden location makes this one of the city’s best-kept secrets!

For a romantic stay

• The Hotel du Vin & Bistro York features quirky, comfortable rooms. The buzzing bistro, excellent wine list and smart, romantic feel makes this offering from the well-regarded hotel group an ideal spot for a weekend à deux.

For a traditional inn

• Guy Fawkes Inn brims with charm, offering splendidly atmospheric rooms with dark wooden furnishings and exposed beams. On the site of the birthplace of Guy Fawkes himself, this is a stellar way to immerse yourself in York’s history — complete with hearty pub food and within easy reach of all the sights.

For a B&B

• B+B York offers light, bright bedrooms in a lovely building just minutes from York’s historic city walls. Hearty breakfasts set guests up perfectly for days of exploring.

• 23 St Mary's is a plush B&B brimming with funky decor, housed in a Victorian townhouse. Highlights include a central location, characterful design and four-poster beds in the luxury suites.

For foodies

• Marmadukes Townhouse Hotel is a wonderfully-appointed property on a quiet residential street near the city centre. Think antique-filled bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms with roll-top baths and an award-winning restaurant perfect for foodies!
• Middletons is a charming bolthole, featuring beautifully restored buildings centred around a courtyard garden. Nab a cosy, romantic room or a garden cottage with space for the whole family. The stellar fine-dining restaurant is the real highlight.

For a country house

• Middlethorpe Hall & Spa is a majestic country-house hotel just ten minutes from York itself. Choose this spot for beautiful gardens, an award-winning restaurant, classically elegant bedrooms, antiques and oil portraits. Restful and romantic.

For luxury

• The Grand Hotel is a striking red-brick edifice, previously the headquarters of the North Eastern Railway Company. Think big sumptuous bedrooms, superb service, a luxurious spa in the former vaults and a whisky lounge to retreat to after dinner.

For great value

• The Bar Convent Guesthouse is unusual, historic and a great value place to stay. It is a convent guesthouse, attached to a real convent which is one of England’s oldest, founded in 1686. You’re in the centre of town and there are all the necessary mod. cons.

Prefer an apartment?

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private house we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to York?

• York is easily accessed by air, with regular international and domestic flights landing at Leeds Bradford Airport. Hop aboard a bus or train to York itself (approx. 1 hour).

• Alternatively, drive to the city or take the train to conveniently located York Station.

• If you would like to hire a car, contact our partner Rentalcars.

• Whilst the weather is warmest in July and August, clear, crisp spring and autumn days are well-suited to exploring. York is immensely popular at festival times, so do book your accommodation well in advance to avoid missing out!

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to explore the best places to stay in Yorkshire.

• Alternatively, see our pick of the best places to stay in Leeds.

• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in York