The Principal York

from $291
Check availability on Booking.com Check availability on Expedia
Photo of The Principal York
Hotel Exterior
1 / 13
Guest Suite
Hotel Exterior
“A classic Victorian station hotel set in pretty gardens in the heart of the historic city. Elegant rooms are contemporary and spacious with the best boasting Minster views. Sumptuous afternoon teas and contemporary-style dining are a highlight. A luxurious retreat ideal for exploring York from.”

Hotel review

The best way to arrive here is by train. Within 15 minutes you’ll have been met by a hotel porter, guided to the hotel (all under cover), have strolled into the city and be outside the magnificent York Minster. The Victorian-era, original Royal Station Hotel, a classic of its type, has been given a sleek and modern makeover by Principal Hotels that’s breathed new life into a rather stuffy building. Ground floor areas are airy in shades of soft grey, with pale woods and soft carpets, velvet-covered Chesterfields, and walls hung with mirrors, all set against Corinthian pillars and lofty corridors. The bar and restaurant have a funkier feel with exposed-brick and industrial-style light fittings in the conservatory-style Refectory restaurant. Rooms are equally understated decorated in soothing shades of grey and offering relaxed, uncluttered style with a welcoming ‘tuck box’ of goodies; many also have marble-clad bathrooms. Suites spoil with huge beds and a small hamper of local produce. Rooms in the modern Sidings wing, although less characterful, are equally stylish if less spacious and priced accordingly. But it’s worth paying extra for Minster-view rooms. Afternoon tea in the Garden Room is a luxurious experience while dinner in the Refectory is livelier than you might expect for such a grand hotel. A perfect combination.

Helen Pickles
Helen Pickles Review published: 26/02/2024

Recommended for

  • Hideaway

    • Set amidst its own beautifully landscaped gardens, giving the feel of remoteness, yet in the heart of the city.

  • Local exploring

    • Ideally placed within easy access of York's main attractions.

  • Other Activities

    • Have an indulgent afternoon break at the elegant Betty's Cafe Tea-rooms.

  • Museums

    • Visit the National Railway Museum just steps from the front door.

  • Sights nearby

    • Marvel at the intricate gothic design of the York Minster.

  • Great walks

    • Take a scenic stroll along the city's ancient walls.

  • Sailing

    • Enjoy a romantic sail along the pretty River Ouse.

  • Luxury

  • Quiet

  • Designer

  • Full of character

  • Secluded setting

  • Traditional

  • Disabled access

  • Child friendly

  • Gym

  • Chic

  • Historic

  • Restaurant

  • Grand Hotel

Facilities

  • Rooms

    155 rooms in this hotel

  • Parking

    On site parking is available for a daily fee

  • Hot Tub

    Jacuzzi in the leisure centre by the pool

  • Swimming Pool

    Indoor heated pool.

  • No pets

  • Meeting Room

  • Sauna/Steam

  • Bar

  • Wifi

  • Business Centre

  • Disabled access

  • Room service

  • Child friendly

  • Gym

  • Garden

  • Restaurant

Activities

  • Other Activities

    • Have an indulgent afternoon break at the elegant Betty's Cafe Tea-rooms.

  • Museums

    • Visit the National Railway Museum just steps from the front door.

  • Sights nearby

    • Marvel at the intricate gothic design of the York Minster.

  • Great walks

    • Take a scenic stroll along the city's ancient walls.

  • Sailing

    • Enjoy a romantic sail along the pretty River Ouse.

Map & Location

See what they say

Why do people love staying in your hotel? Because of it's location, so handy for business or pleasure or even celebrating a special occasion. What is there to do in the area? The best that York has to offer are all within 15 minutes walk - York Minster, National Railway Museum, City walls etc. What kind of breakfast do you offer? Full Yorkshire. Do you offer other meals? Yes, in the Refectory Kitchen and Terrace. What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms ? Extra beds possible in the suites and in some deluxe rooms too. Cots are free and extra beds £30 per night.

Other reviews

Principal York York, Yorkshire, England

Once one of Britain’s great Victorian railway hotels, the five-storey, 159-bedroomed Principal York – formerly the Royal York – has been beautifully revamped thanks to a £15million makeover that has not only restored former glories, but created one of the city’s finest and most impressive places to down bags.

Originally published by The Telegraph

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

Check availability on Booking.com