York’s Top 17 Hotels with Quintessential English Charm

Contents [hide]

• 1 York hotels under GBP £100
  • 1.1 Hotel Location
• 2 York hotels under GBP £150
  • 2.1 Hotel Location
• 3 York hotels under GBP £250
  • 3.1 Hotel Location
• 4 York hotels under GBP £300
  • 4.1 Hotel Location
• 5 York hotels under GBP £600
  • 5.1 Hotel Location
• 6 Must-see attractions
• 7 Historical attractions
• 8 Fun attractions
• 9 Hidden gem attractions
• 10 What do you think makes York so captivating?

A 2,000-year-old town filled with charming hotels and off-the-beaten-path attractions, York is blessed with picturesque natural beauty, captivating historical attractions, and intimate small town vibes. A walled city in a lovely corner of Northern England, York is an ideal destination for those interested in visiting a city that exudes quintessential English charm. From the largest mediaeval church in England to its ancient city walls, visitors are able to explore major attractions by foot, as the compact city is a cosy mix of quaint boutiques, restaurants, and historical sites.

With so many delightful hotels in York to choose from, it can be a challenge to find the best one, as they all boast their own charismatic personalities. With over 300 million visitors per year to HotelsCombined, we’ve taken the guesswork out of hotel searches in York by highlighting the top hotels for a variety of travel budgets.

Whether it’s a historical haven or romantic getaway, these hotels offer a unique combination of alluring ambience and luxury services that are sure to provide visitors with an unforgettable holiday experience. Organised into different holiday budgets, let us help you discover which York hotel meets all your travel needs.

York hotels under GBP £100

The White Horse

Located in the heart of York, The White Horse is a budget-friendly red-brick lodging accommodation with lots of charm. Only a block away from top attractions such as the Yorkshire Museum and Museum Gardens, the York Gallery and a range of shopping and nightlife activities, this 18th-century establishment also has a quaint pub attached to it.

Dating back to 1770, The White Horse provides an intimate and cosy setting with only three rooms where visitors can sip on award-winning ales and socialise with friendly York locals before retiring to king sized beds in every room, in addition to LCD TVs, free Wi-fi, and complimentary tea and coffee.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £33 – GBP £52
Guest Rating: 7.2
Address: 6, Bootham, York, United Kingdom

The Crescent Guest House

An 18th-century bed and breakfast, The Crescent Guest House is a 3-star accommodation that offers a tranquil ambience just a stone’s throw away from York’s city centre attractions. With complimentary cooked-to-order English breakfast served each morning to energise guests for a day of adventure, you’ll have easy access to all that York has to offer at only a 15-minute walk from the York Minster cathedral, the Shambles, and the Museum Gardens.

Nestled amongst its historic surroundings, the hotel boasts twelve traditional rooms with a stylish décor, in addition to hair dryers, LCD TVs, and Wi-fi in every room. Walking distance to the York Railway Station, guests have easy access to nearby restaurants, cafes, and bars. Guests can also take advantage of the on-site tour desk and ticket service.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £34 – GBP £66
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 77 Bootham, York, United Kingdom

Moorgarth Guest House

Ideally located within an easy reach to all of York’s top attractions, Moorgarth Guest House is a quaint family-run guest house with a range of rooms that accommodates all types of travellers. Boasting Victorian-style architecture, here guests will find eight cosy ensuite rooms that will fit a variety of needs, including three double rooms, two twin rooms, one single, and two family rooms.

With an on-site restaurant and easy access to the York Minster, the Clifford’s Tower, the Shambles, and the National Railway Museum, guests won’t have to venture far to explore the best of York, as guests will also find a range of shopping, restaurants, and nightlife options nearby. Combining valuable convenience, affordability and charming vibes, Moorgarth Guest House is an ideal accommodation choice for those looking for a quiet getaway.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £15 – GBP £69
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 158 Fulford Road, York, United Kingdom

Hotel Location

York hotels under GBP £150

Lighthorseman

Guests will find bright and airy wood-furnished rooms at Lighthorseman, in addition to its quaint on-site Victorian pub and beer garden. Only a 15-minute walk to Clifford’s Tower, York Castle Museum, and Barbican Centre, Lighthorseman is situated in an ideal location for guests who are ready to explore the city centre and nearby attractions.

With only eight intimate rooms, Lighthorseman boasts modern conveniences that appeals to all types of travellers, where guests can take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary Wi-fi, hair dryers, TV, and coffee making facilities in the ensuite rooms. Guests who feel a bit peckish can enjoy Italian dishes and classic pub meals from the on-site bar, soak in the lush outdoor beer garden views with heated umbrellas, or spend an evening playing a game at the pool table.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: GBP £27 – GBP £103
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 124, Fulford Road, York, United Kingdom

The Queens Hotel York

Providing the perfect combination of convenient location and whimsical ambience, The Queens Hotel York is nestled on the banks of the picturesque River Ouse and situated in an area that is known for its ample shopping opportunities. Here visitors will be ideally located near many of York’s top restaurants, bars, and boutiques in addition to a short stroll from the York Train Station and York City Walls.

Spacious and comfortable, the rooms at The Queens Hotel York boast classic décor in addition to complimentary toiletries, refreshment trays, and Wi-fi access. Family rooms come with one king sized bed and two pull out single beds, while twin rooms are available for one, two, or three people. Dine on full English and continental breakfast and traditional dinner dishes at the on-site Royal Brasserie, or relax with a drink at the lounge bar after exploring mediaeval history and modern attractions at this central location.

Star Rating: 2*
Price: GBP £37 – GBP £112
Guest Rating: 7.7
Address: Queens Staith Skeldergate, York, United Kingdom

BEST WESTERN Kilima Hotel

Quintessential Victoria charm, Best Western Kilima Hotel is situated in a 19th-century former rectory building only 1.6 kilometres from York’s city centre. An ideal base for exploration, the Railway Museum, York Castle Museum, and York City Walls are all within an easy reach. Boasting a variety of amenities, guests can enjoy an executive floor, express check-in and check-out feature, a heated indoor pool, fitness centre and steam room.

Complimentary tea and coffee are supplied, rooms include ensuite facilities, free Wi-fi, desks, and flat screen TVs alongside a full English breakfast served cooked-to-order every morning. In addition, guests will find a cosy on-site restaurant and bar with beautiful décor, exposed brickwork, and vaulted ceilings.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £51 – GBP £124
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 129 Holgate Road, York, United Kingdom

Hotel Noir York

Combining luxury with personalised touches, Hotel Noir York is a 3-storey Victorian property just minutes away from York’s well-known attractions. Offering a range of rooms, from Compact to Four Poster to Family sized, guests can relax in their fluffy robes and indulge in treats from the mini-bar that include champagne and chocolates.

Serving top-quality cuisine at their on-site restaurant, guests can dine on comfort food favourites like steak and ale pie and fish and chips. Complimentary full English and Continental breakfast is served daily, in addition to a range of fruits, yoghurts, and pastries.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £23 – GBP £149
Guest Rating: 7.7
Address: 3-5 Clifton Green, York, United Kingdom

Elmbank Hotel

Steeped rich in history, Elmbank Hotel offers guests a peek into York’s enchanting past in a cosy atmosphere. Built in 1870, this ivy-clad mansion retains its breathtaking stained glass windows and stunning oak staircase, boasting 63 rooms that range from single to double superior options. Conveniently located within 2 kilometres from the ancient city walls, the York Racecourse, and York Minster, guests can either reach these popular attractions via car or on foot.

Guests don’t have to go far to indulge in tasty cuisine from the on-site nouveau style Walton Bar & Restaurant that serves traditional cuisine complemented by an extensive wine list. Guests have the choice of relaxing on plush leather sofas in the comfortable wood-paneled lounge with a relaxing open fire, or unwind in the comfort of their own room with breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner room services available.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £25 – GBP £150
Guest Rating: 6.7
Address: The Mount, York, United Kingdom

Hotel Location

York hotels under GBP £250

Jorvik Hotel

A hidden gem in the heart of York, Jorvik Hotel is a stunning Georgian townhouse that overlooks the city’s Museum Gardens and remains of St Mary’s Abbey. Located just two blocks from the picturesque River Ouse, Jorvik Hotel is a historic masterpiece that dates back to the 1750’s. Boasting 22 individually designed bedrooms, here visitors will find modern amenities that include a flat screen TV, complimentary shower products, and luxurious Egyptian cotton bed linen.

To access different parts of the city is easy, as the hotel is only a 10-minute walk from the York Rail Station. After a day of exploration, guests can enjoy a cup of tea at the on-site restaurant and bar that overlooks a quaint enclosed garden that sits on the property, or request an in-house delivery to their room from a menu that includes bacon butties, almond croissants, and cappuccinos.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £47 – GBP £160
Guest Rating: 7.2
Address: 50-52 Marygate, York, United Kingdom

Best Western PLUS Dean Court Hotel

Visitors looking for a prime location should look no further than the Best Western PLUS Dean Court Hotel. Just a stone’s throw away from the York Minster and the York Theatre Royal, visitors will be situated less than 200 metres from the city centre and all of York’s major attractions, shops, and restaurants.

Boasting 37 unique contemporary themed rooms, guests will find comfortable spaces with modern amenities. Food lovers are spoiled for choice with two fantastic eateries, D.C.H the Restaurant with York Minster views and the more casual Court Café & Bar, both serving a wide range of award-winning cuisine and wine options.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: GBP £62 – GBP £223
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: Duncombe Place, York, United Kingdom

Hotel Location

York hotels under GBP £300

Marriott York Hotel

A peaceful oasis in the city centre, Marriott York Hotel is a 4-star luxury spa hotel situated on 5 acres of lush grounds that overlooks the famous York Racecourse. Active travellers will find an abundance of amenities to meet their needs, with a modern fitness centre and private tennis court, while business travellers can stay productive with the hotel’s free Wi-fi and 11 function rooms.

After a day of exploration, guests can unwind at the hotel’s heated indoor pool, sauna, or indulge in a bit of relaxation with a luxury spa treatment. Dine on delicious locally sourced cuisine at the on-site Chase Grill or order 24-hour room service in the privacy of your own suite before retiring to one of the 151 spacious rooms with sitting areas and plush feather bed mattresses.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: GBP £47 – GBP £262
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: Tadcaster Road, York, United Kingdom

The Grand Hotel & Spa

The ultimate 5-star luxury experience, The Grand Hotel & Spa offers guests both opulence and convenience in an iconic Edwardian building. Guests are given a wide variety of amenities to make their stay comfortable, such as a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and a sauna. Boasting 107 rooms with elegant décor, this historic hotel is perfect for travellers looking for a day of pampering, as the hotel has a spa, wellness centre and a beauty centre where guests can choose from a variety of refreshing face and body treatments.

Conveniently located walking distance from the York Railway Museum and the York City Walls, guests don’t have to go far to find one of the best restaurants in the city. From cocktails to formal dining, taste Yorkshire’s fine dining the on-site Hudson’s restaurant, sip on a cocktail at the cosy Whisky Lounge or experience a unique Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea Party.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: GBP £76 – GBP £267
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: Station Rise, York, United Kingdom

Hilton York

Just opposite from the historic Clifford’s Tower, Hilton York is an upscale hotel with contemporary rooms and a convenient location. A short walking distance from all the major attractions, shops and nightlife, this 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms, modern amenities, and a handful of upgraded rooms with spectacular city views off a private balcony.

Food lovers are spoiled for choice with two fully serviced bars and restaurants on the property serving fresh, made-to-order dishes. Guests can refuel for a day of adventure from the locally sourced dishes at the elegant Towers Restaurant or a range of exciting American cuisine at the American diner, Applejacks, before taking a self-guided tour of the famous 2,000-year-old ancient city walls only walking distance away.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: GBP £27 – GBP £270
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: 1 Tower Street, York, United Kingdom

BEST WESTERN Monkbar Hotel

Located in the popular area of York, BEST WESTERN Monkbar Hotel is an ideal choice for taking advantage of all the vibrant attractions the city has to offer. Boasting 125 individually designed rooms that range from Standard Double and Twin Rooms to brand new Executive Doubles, Executive Kings and Suites, with upgraded rooms offering walk in showers and captivating views of the city.

Just five minutes from the York Minster, city walls, and abundance of shopping opportunities, guests are encouraged to soak in the historic surroundings of York before recharging in the on-site lounge, courtyard garden, or order from the seasonal menu at the laid back Yorkshire Bar & Grill.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £58 – GBP £289
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: St Maurices Road, York, United Kingdom

The Grange Hotel York

Charming and charismatic, the 19th-century Grange Hotel York is an intimate choice for accommodation with 36 cosy rooms situated amongst Regency style décor, antique paintings and an open fire. This enchanting 4-star accommodation has all the luxury amenities visitors will need for a comfortable stay, offering elegant ensuite rooms in a prime location in the historic city centre.

Extra luxury is provided in the upgraded Premier rooms, where guests will find underfloor heating and TVs installed in the bathroom. A perfect base to explore modern restaurants, high-end designer shops, independent boutiques, and the city’s historic attractions like the cobblestoned streets of the Shambles, guests have the best of both worlds. A contemporary Ivy Brasserie serves up locally sourced classic dishes, while G&T aficionados can participate with a Gin Masterclass in the lounge bar to up their game.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: GBP £95 – GBP £293
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 1 Clifton, York, United Kingdom

Hotel Location

York hotels under GBP £600

The Principal York

A spectacular 5-storey Victorian hotel, the 4-star Principal York boasts impressive architecture and luxury comforts. Nestled amongst 3 acres of lush manicured gardens and a tranquil fountain, guests with upstairs rooms can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the historic sites of York. A perfect area for exploring the city, guests can easily reach the city’s most notable attractions by foot.

Built in 1878, The Principal York underwent a refurbishment and restoration process. Award-winning designers created 155 contemporary rooms that mix country house style interiors and elegant décor with chandeliers, grand corridors and ornate columns. Offering quality services for the affordable price, guests can sweat it out at the fitness centre, unwind at the spa, and indulge in British cuisine at the on-site Refectory restaurant.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: GBP £53 – GBP £341
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: Station Road, York, United Kingdom

The Churchill Hotel

A perfect base for sightseeing and shopping opportunities, The Churchill Hotel is an upscale boutique hotel in the heart of the city. Built in 1827, the Georgian mansion combines historical ambience with luxury amenities such as 24-hour room service, designer toiletries, and free standing tubs.

Guests will find individually designed bedrooms decorated with bespoke furniture, polished woods, and richly coloured rooms. From Double rooms to Family rooms to a Luxury Collection and a Prince of Wales Suite, The Churchill Hotel offers a variety of accommodation choices to meet any budget. Watch award-winning chefs whip up modern British cuisine at the Churchill Hotel Brassiere or taste an authentic Yorkshire lager from the 20 specially selected craft beers at the on-site Wellington Bar.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: GBP £39 – GBP £571
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 65 Bootham, York, United Kingdom

Hotel Location

Must-see attractions

York MinsterConsidered a Gothic masterpiece, York Minster is the largest mediaeval cathedral in Northern Europe. York’s shining crown jewel, construction on this awe-inspiring cathedral began in 1220 and took 250 years to complete. Beloved for its impressive craftsmanship, visitors can explore the largest concentration of mediaeval stained glass in England here or hike the 275 steps to the top of the Central Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

York Castle MuseumSituated on the site of a castle built by William the Conqueror, York Castle Museum offers visitors a fascinating insight into the English way of life through captivating time period galleries. Highlighting the enchanting sights and sounds of York from 300 years ago, visitors can explore a recreated Victorian street, browse exhibits on World War I, and visit the cells where the famed highwayman Dick Turpin was once held.

Yorkshire Museum and Museum GardensOffering visitors a comprehensive overview of York’s historical significance, Yorkshire Museum and Museum Gardens contains an impressive collection of prehistoric, Roman, and Viking artefacts, such as the 1,000-year-old Viking Cawood Sword. Spread across five galleries, a range of archaeological and geological exhibits provide hands-on interactive features that are perfect for the entire family. Outside, 10-acres of lush botanical gardens await visitors with delightful flower displays.

The ShamblesA charming 14th century cobbled thoroughfare in the heart of York, the Shambles is considered one of the best-preserved mediaeval streets in all of Europe. Picturesque and enchanting, here visitors will find overhanging timber-framed shops selling everything from handmade crafts to sweets. Lined with inviting eateries and shops, the Shambles was once mentioned in the Doomsday Book and is a former home to the city’s butcher shops and stalls.

Historical attractions

Castle HowardKnown for its stunning interior, Castle Howard is a breathtaking 18th-century Palladian mansion situated amongst lush greenery, rolling hills, temples, and 1,000 acres of sweeping parkland vistas. In addition to its breathtaking grounds, Castle Howard boasts spectacular architecture, world-renowned art collections, a quaint café, and a beautiful fountain that serves as a centrepiece of the estate. The epitome of tranquillity, visitors can easily spend a day wandering the charming property.

York City WallsConsidered the longest and best preserved in England, York’s mediaeval walls were built mainly in the 14th century. At over 3 kilometres in length, visitors can explore the entire limestone pathway, or walk shorter sections if they prefer, and stop along the way at some of the city’s best museums and attractions. Offering a glimpse into the city’s historical significance, visitors will also find fantastic views over the city.

Clifford’s TowerReconstructed by Henry III in the 13th century, Clifford’s Tower was built to serve as a replacement for the wood-laden York Castle. Infamous for being the site where the king would display those who had been executed, Clifford’s Tower was named after Roger de Clifford who was executed for treason. Taking visitors back through significant years of York’s dark history, the Tower is a must-see attraction for history aficionados.

Fun attractions

York’s Chocolate StoryEntertaining and informative, York’s Chocolate Story is one of York’s sweetest attractions. Home to two of the biggest chocolate brands, Rowntree’s and Terry’s, York boasts an extensive list of iconic chocolates, such as the delicious Smarties, Aero, and Kit Kat brands. Tours here take chocolate lovers down a journey of the city’s confectionery history, gives a glimpse into its chocolate-making process, and allows visitors to create their own handmade chocolates.

YorkBoat City CruisesOffering visitors a unique perspective, visitors can soak in the sights on a thrilling river cruise with YorkBoat. With daily cruises throughout the day, visitors can climb to the top deck of the boats and get stunning panoramic views of the city. Whether visitors want to self-drive, hire a boat for a special occasion, or join a party in the evening, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience.

National Railway MuseumBoasting an impressive array of locomotives highlighting over 200 years of rail history, even visitors who aren’t train enthusiasts can appreciate the National Railway Museum’s collection of legendary train displays. Visitors have a chance to explore the historical importance of these treasures and observe artefacts that include Queen Victoria’s “Palace on Wheels”, the world’s fastest steam locomotive, and the only Bullet Train outside of Japan.

Hidden gem attractions

Treasurer’s HouseAn off-the-beaten path attraction, the Treasurer’s House rewards visitors with thirteen rooms that paint a picture of the house’s wealthy Yorkshire owner, Frank Green. Here visitors can explore a perfectly preserved cellar, Edwardian servants’ quarters, and set of period furniture from a 300-year period.  Relax in the lush gardens, wander through its friendly trails, or enjoy a cup of tea in the on-site café at this peaceful oasis.

Yorkshire Air MuseumConsidered one of the best aviation attractions in the country, the Yorkshire Air Museum is home to over 40 airframes and a variety of impressive collections. After the clearing and restoration of the original wartime buildings, the museum officially opened in 1986. With a growing collection, visitors can soak in the exceptional atmosphere of fascinating displays and catch a glimpse of a very rare Halifax bomber and modern Harrier GR3 jet.

York MazeOne of the largest mazes in the world, the York Maze is an “a-maze-ing” feat of nature. Created from 1.5 million living maize plants, the York Maze boasts a different theme every year to keep visitors intrigued with its splendour. This expansive space also includes an abundance of attractions to keep visitors entertained, with over 20 thrilling rides, live shows, and an action-packed “Maze of Illusions”.

What do you think makes York so captivating?

An alluring destination that boasts an intimate combination of delightful boutiques, cafes and hotels nestled alongside romantic cobblestone streets, York is a picturesque town with an undeniable charm. From world-renown historical sites to fascinating museums, the range of historic and family-friendly attractions make this whimsical pint-sized town a popular year-round destination.

With hotels ranging from budget-friendly three-star abodes to posh five-star luxuries, at HotelsCombined we see a lot of travellers opting for accommodation that provides a combination of cosy ambience and convenient access to York’s attractions. Whether it’s a walking distance to the city centre, freshly cooked-to-order breakfast in the morning, or tranquil on-site dining or garden areas, the most popular hotels in York usually boast one or more of these enticing amenities.

What do you think makes York so captivating? Let us know if you’ve stayed in York and which historical haven you can’t pass up when visiting the city.

References

1. Visit York
2. VisitBritain
3. PlanetWare
4. York:pm