Best Places to Stay in York: Where to Stay for Every Budget

York is one of Britain’s most captivating destinations. Medieval streets wind past Gothic architecture, and centuries of history come alive at every turn.

The city attracts millions of visitors each year. They come to explore ancient walls, world-class museums, and charming cobbled lanes.

Finding the right accommodation in York can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one, whether you seek luxury hotels, boutique properties, or budget-friendly options.

From elegant spa retreats and historic inns to modern city centre hotels and unique hostels, York offers diverse accommodation styles for every preference and budget.

This guide highlights eleven exceptional places to stay. Each one offers distinct advantages for different types of visitors exploring this remarkable Yorkshire city.

1) 3 Bed House|Free Parking| 10′ to Uni & City Centre

This Yorkshire stone-built house offers comfortable accommodation just 10 minutes from York city centre and the University of York. The property features three bedrooms and one bathroom, making it ideal for families, working professionals, and students.

The house has a unique layout with the living room and kitchen on the first floor. Guests enter through their own front door, creating a home-like atmosphere.

Two bedrooms have double-size beds, and the third bedroom has two single beds. Free parking is available, which is valuable in an area where parking can be hard to find.

The property welcomes both short-term stays and longer relocations, with discounts for extended visits. It suits various guest types, from working professionals to families and students.

Its proximity to York St John University makes it convenient for academic visits or student housing. The self-contained property includes essential amenities for a comfortable stay.

The location offers easy access to local shops and services. It maintains a residential feel away from the busy city centre.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £80-150 per night (varies by season and length of stay)
• Best For: Families, groups, extended stays, university visitors
• Walk to York Minster: 25 minutes (10 minutes by car/bus)
• Walk to University of York: 10 minutes
• Parking: Free on-site (major advantage in York)
• Breakfast: Self-catering (full kitchen provided)

Minimum Stay: Flexible (discounts for longer stays)

Booking Options:

• Booking: Book directly through Booking.com
• Airbnb: Book through Airbnb

2) Middlethorpe Hall & Spa

Middlethorpe Hall & Spa is a magnificent country house hotel just two miles from York’s city centre. This luxury property sits on 20 acres of beautiful gardens, offering guests a peaceful retreat with easy access to the historic city.

The hotel overlooks York Racecourse and provides award-winning dining. Guests can enjoy boutique spa facilities, including a Turkish bath, hot tub, and sauna.

The property features 17 elegant rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi. Middlethorpe Hall maintains its traditional charm while offering modern amenities.

The grounds provide stunning photo opportunities and scenic walks through the gardens. The hotel ranks highly among York accommodations, holding the number two position out of 55 hotels on TripAdvisor.

Guests praise the property’s combination of luxury and tranquillity. The location offers countryside serenity with urban convenience.

Middlethorpe Hall is part of the National Trust collection, which helps preserve its historic character. The property regularly features in prestigious hotel guides for its exceptional standards and quintessentially English country house experience.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £180-280 per night
• Best For: Luxury seekers, spa breaks, special occasions, romantic getaways
• Distance to York Minster: 2 miles (10 minutes by car, taxi £8-12)
• Parking: Free on-site parking in extensive grounds
• Breakfast: Full English breakfast included

Minimum Stay: 2 nights recommended for spa breaks

3) No1 by GuestHouse

No1 by GuestHouse stands just 600 metres from York Minster in the heart of the city. This 4-star boutique hotel occupies a prime spot on Clifton, placing guests within walking distance of York’s main attractions.

The hotel features luxury rooms and modern amenities, including a spa and wellness area. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant or relax in the shared lounge areas.

TripAdvisor recognised No1 by GuestHouse as one of the best places to stay in the UK through their Best of the Best Travellers’ Choice Awards. The property ranked number one in its category.

York Minster and the famous Shambles are both within a 15-minute walk. York Racecourse is 2.1 miles away, and the University of York is 2.4 miles from the hotel.

The GuestHouse group operates this sophisticated property with attention to comfort and service. Business travellers will find suitable facilities, and leisure guests can enjoy the recreational opportunities on site.

The hotel’s location near Bootham Bar provides easy access to York’s medieval streets and attractions. The Yorkshire Science Museum is also nearby for those interested in local culture.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £120-200 per night
• Best For: Boutique luxury, couples, design enthusiasts
• Walk to York Minster: 8 minutes
• Parking: Paid nearby (£15-20 per day)
• Breakfast: Full breakfast included

Special Features: On-site spa and wellness area, restaurant and bar

4) Best Western Kilima Hotel

Best Western Kilima Hotel is a well-regarded 3-star accommodation in York. The hotel features 26 rooms and holds a solid 4 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor.

Guests appreciate the helpful staff and quality breakfast service. The hotel ranks among the top 25 hotels in York out of 55 establishments.

The property offers excellent leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and fitness studio. Steam baths are also available for relaxation after exploring the city.

The location is convenient for visitors. The hotel sits within a 15-minute walk from the National Railway Museum and about 5 minutes from St Paul’s York by car.

York’s main attractions are easily accessible. York’s Chocolate Story is roughly 25 minutes away on foot, and the York Christmas Market is just minutes from the hotel.

Modern amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi and conference facilities for business travellers. The hotel’s position near the train station suits those arriving by rail.

The combination of facilities, location, and positive guest reviews makes Best Western Kilima Hotel a reliable choice for York visitors.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £70-130 per night
• Best For: Families, value seekers, fitness enthusiasts
• Walk to York Minster: 15 minutes
• Parking: Free on-site parking
• Breakfast: Full English breakfast included

Special Features: Indoor pool, fitness studio, steam baths

5) The Grand, York

The Grand is York’s only five-star hotel, making it the city’s most luxurious accommodation. Built in 1906 as the headquarters of the North Eastern Railway company, this historic property has kept its grandeur while adding modern amenities.

The hotel features wide corridors originally designed for Victorian gentlemen to hold “walking meetings.” Original office numbers remain carved above the room doors, preserving the building’s railway heritage.

A friendly doorman in a top hat greets guests at the entrance, setting the tone for premium service. The Grand offers multiple fine-dining restaurants and a spa facility for those preferring to remain on-site.

The location provides easy walking access to York’s city centre attractions and dining scene. Guests can explore medieval streets and the Gothic cathedral within minutes.

The property caters well to romantic getaways and spa breaks, with special packages available. The combination of historical architecture and five-star facilities makes The Grand a distinctive choice for visitors seeking luxury accommodation in York’s city centre.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £200-300+ per night
• Best For: Luxury seekers, special occasions, spa breaks
• Walk to York Minster: 10 minutes
• Parking: Paid valet parking available
• Breakfast: Available (additional charge, premium quality)

Special Features: York’s only 5-star hotel, multiple restaurants, spa, historic building

6) Hotel Indigo York

Hotel Indigo York sits on Walmgate, one of York’s oldest streets in the historic Walmgate neighbourhood. The 4-star boutique hotel combines modern design with the area’s rich cultural heritage.

The hotel offers a prime location just 10 minutes’ walk from York’s main attractions. Guests can easily reach The Shambles, York Minster, and the City Walls on foot.

Despite being close to the centre, the Walmgate area remains quieter than the busiest tourist zones. Hotel Indigo York features contemporary guest rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

The design is fresh and modern, fitting the boutique style of the Indigo brand. On-site facilities include a tapas-style restaurant and bar, allowing guests to dine without leaving the hotel.

There’s also a gym for those who want to stay active during their visit. The hotel provides easy access to York’s shopping areas and sits near Rowntree Park.

York City Walls are just 700 metres away, and the York Art Gallery is within a 19-minute walk. Private parking is available nearby for guests travelling by car.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £100-180 per night
• Best For: Modern comfort, couples, design lovers
• Walk to York Minster: 10 minutes
• Parking: Paid nearby parking
• Breakfast: Continental and cooked breakfast (additional charge)

Special Features: Boutique design, on-site tapas restaurant, gym, air conditioning

7) The Principal York

The Principal York is one of the city’s most impressive railway hotels. This grand Victorian building sits right next to York Railway Station, making it perfect for travellers arriving by train.

The hotel combines historic charm with modern luxury. Guests can enjoy elegant rooms with high ceilings and period features.

Many rooms offer views across the city or towards the Minster. The Principal York features several dining options, including a restaurant serving British cuisine made with local ingredients.

There’s also a stylish bar for evening drinks. Business travellers appreciate the hotel’s meeting rooms and conference facilities.

The spa offers treatments and a fitness centre for relaxation. The location makes exploring York simple, with the city centre just a short walk away.

Guests can easily reach York Minster, the Shambles, and other historic attractions on foot. The hotel attracts couples, business guests, and tourists alike.

Service standards remain consistently high throughout the property. The Principal York delivers a luxurious base for discovering this historic city.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £90-170 per night
• Best For: Train travellers, business guests, history enthusiasts
• Walk to York Minster: 15 minutes
• Walk to York Railway Station: 1 minute (directly adjacent)
• Parking: Paid nearby parking
• Breakfast: Available (additional charge)

Special Features: Grand Victorian railway hotel, spa, fitness centre, conference facilities

8) Dean Court Hotel

Dean Court Hotel sits just 200 metres from York Minster, making it one of the best-positioned hotels in the city centre. The 4-star property offers 37 individually styled guest rooms with modern amenities.

Many deluxe and superior rooms provide direct views of York Minster. Guests can enjoy breakfast while looking out at the historic cathedral through their windows.

The hotel features free Wi-Fi throughout and offers private parking for guests. This is particularly valuable given the central location near York’s shopping district.

Room service is available for those who prefer to dine privately. The property also houses a restaurant and provides family-friendly facilities for guests with children.

The location places visitors within walking distance of major attractions like Jorvik Viking Centre. Rowntree Park is just 1.6 kilometres away for those seeking green space.

Dean Court Hotel combines historic charm with contemporary comfort. The staff provide friendly service in what many consider one of York’s finest hotel locations.

The property welcomes both leisure and business travellers seeking quality accommodation in York’s heart.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £110-190 per night
• Best For: Minster views, location enthusiasts, romantic stays
• Walk to York Minster: 2 minutes (200 metres – closest hotel to Minster)
• Parking: Paid nearby parking
• Breakfast: Full breakfast included

Special Features: Direct Minster views from many rooms, family-friendly, room service

9) Grays Court

Grays Court is one of York’s most distinguished hotels, occupying an 11th-century building in the exclusive Minster Quarter. The property dates back to 1080 and offers guests a unique country house atmosphere within the city centre.

The hotel sits down a cobbled lane behind York Minster. Guests enjoy spectacular views across York’s medieval walls from many rooms.

The leafy gardens provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets. Each room features elegant décor befitting the historic setting.

Some rooms include bay windows overlooking the gardens and city walls. The luxury suites offer free-standing bathtubs and double walk-in monsoon showers.

The Bow Room Restaurant serves sophisticated cuisine in an intimate setting. The hotel also features a comfortable lounge bar for guests to unwind.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Grays Court holds a strong reputation among visitors, ranking sixth out of 55 York hotels on travel review sites.

The location provides easy walking access to York Minster and other historic attractions. This award-winning hotel combines medieval charm with modern comfort for a memorable stay.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £150-250 per night
• Best For: Historic romance, special occasions, couples
• Walk to York Minster: 5 minutes
• Parking: Limited on-site parking (book ahead)
• Breakfast: Included

Special Features: 11th-century building, walled gardens, views over medieval walls

10) Judges Lodgings

The Judges Lodgings is the only Grade I listed Georgian townhouse hotel in York’s city centre. This historic property dates back to 1710 and sits within the shadow of York Minster.

The hotel offers 21 individually designed boutique bedrooms. Each room features rich details and follows the property’s recent refurbishment.

Guests can upgrade to the sophisticated Judge’s Suite for a more luxurious stay. Dining options include elegant rooms and a cosy cellar bar, serving fresh, locally sourced food and international dishes.

During summer, guests can enjoy al fresco dining on the sun terraces. The location is ideal for exploring York’s attractions, just a two-minute walk from Theatre Royal and ten minutes from York Train Station.

Betty’s Tearooms is around the corner, and York Castle Museum is five minutes away on foot. The property consistently receives high ratings from guests, with couples particularly appreciating the location and rating it 9.8 out of 10.

The hotel ranks among the top places to stay in York, combining historical charm with modern comfort and excellent hospitality.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £130-220 per night
• Best For: Georgian charm, theatre lovers, historic ambience
• Walk to York Minster: 2 minutes
• Walk to Theatre Royal: 2 minutes
• Parking: No on-site parking (nearby paid car parks)
• Breakfast: Included

Special Features: Grade I listed Georgian townhouse (York’s only), cellar bar, sun terraces

11) The Fort Boutique Hostel

The Fort Boutique Hostel sits in York’s city centre, just off the medieval Stonegate. This boutique accommodation places guests within walking distance of York Minster and the famous Shambles market.

The hostel offers themed private rooms and eight-bed family rooms. Guests can choose from various accommodation options to suit their needs and budget.

Kennedy’s Bar and Restaurant operates on-site, serving food and drinks Wednesday through Sunday. The venue provides an extensive menu for guests who want to dine without leaving the property.

Free WiFi connects guests throughout the building. The hostel also features showering facilities and 24-hour security for added peace of mind.

The location puts major attractions within easy reach. York Dungeon is 0.6 miles away, and the Jorvik Viking Centre is 0.8 miles from the hostel.

The historic York City Walls stand nearby, offering guests a glimpse into the city’s Roman heritage. The Fort Boutique Hostel attracts backpackers and budget travellers seeking quality accommodation in York’s heart.

Its central position makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s historic streets and attractions.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: £25-60 per night (dorm beds from £25, private rooms from £50)
• Best For: Budget travellers, backpackers, solo travellers, young groups
• Walk to York Minster: 5 minutes
• Walk to The Shambles: 3 minutes
• Parking: No parking (city centre location)
• Breakfast: Not included (on-site bar/restaurant available Wed-Sun)

Special Features: Themed private rooms, 8-bed family rooms, central location, 24-hour security

Essential Factors for Choosing Accommodation in York

Finding the right place to stay in York depends on three main elements: location, property type, and budget.

Each factor shapes your experience in York.

Location and Accessibility

York’s compact size makes most areas walkable. However, location still matters.

The city centre offers the best access to attractions like York Minster, The Shambles, and the city walls.

Guests can reach restaurants, shops, and historical sites within minutes.

Areas near York Railway Station provide excellent transport links. This location suits travellers arriving by train or planning day trips to other Yorkshire destinations.

The station sits just outside the city walls and is about a 10-minute walk to the centre.

Key location benefits to consider:

• City centre: Walking distance to attractions, restaurants, nightlife
• Near station: Easy transport access, good for short stays
• Riverside areas: Quieter setting, scenic walks along the Ouse
• Outside city walls: More parking options, often better value

The historic city centre has limited parking and can get busy during peak tourist seasons.

Properties outside the centre often provide parking spaces and offer a quieter atmosphere with good access to attractions.

Accommodation Types and Styles

York offers diverse accommodation options for different preferences and travel styles.

Many hotels occupy converted Georgian townhouses or Victorian properties, adding character and atmosphere.

Luxury hotels include award-winning properties with spa facilities, fine dining, and premium locations.

These often feature pools, fitness centres, and concierge services.

Boutique guesthouses combine personal service with stylish interiors and modern amenities.

Traditional B&Bs provide a personal experience with local hosts and typically include a cooked breakfast.

Budget options include hostels, budget hotels, and simple guesthouses focused on clean, comfortable basics.

Decide which amenities matter most: parking, breakfast, room size, or facilities like gyms or restaurants.

Budget Considerations

Accommodation prices in York vary by season, location, and property type.

Peak times include summer, Christmas markets, and major events when rates rise.

Budget ranges typically include:

• Budget: £40-80 per night for hostels, basic B&Bs
• Mid-range: £80-150 per night for good hotels, quality guesthouses
• Luxury: £150+ per night for premium hotels, boutique properties

City centre locations cost more but save on transport.

Properties outside the centre often offer better value while maintaining easy access to attractions.

Many York accommodations include breakfast, adding value and convenience.

Some provide parking, saving £10-20 per day compared to public car parks.

Book early for better rates, especially during peak seasons.

Weekday stays often cost less than weekends, especially in business-focused hotels.

Amenities and Guest Experiences

York’s hotels cater to diverse needs with dining options, accessible facilities, and pet-friendly policies.

Many properties feature award-winning restaurants, accessibility features, and dedicated pet amenities.

Dining Options and Breakfast Offerings

York’s finest hotels offer exceptional culinary experiences.

The Grand Hotel & Spa serves fine dining using Yorkshire produce and contemporary British cuisine.

Grays Court Hotel provides afternoon tea in historic gardens overlooking York Minster.

Most luxury properties serve full English breakfasts with local ingredients.

Hotel du Vin offers continental and cooked options, including Yorkshire sausages and black pudding.

The Principal York includes vegetarian and vegan choices alongside traditional breakfasts.

Breakfast Types Available:

• Full English breakfast with local produce
• Continental selections with pastries and fresh fruit
• Vegan and vegetarian options
• Room service breakfast menus
• Gluten-free alternatives

Many boutique hotels partner with local suppliers for fresh bread, eggs, and artisanal preserves.

Accessibility Features

York’s hotels increasingly provide accessibility features.

The Principal York offers wheelchair-accessible rooms with roll-in showers and lowered fixtures.

Middletons Hotel has accessible parking near the entrance and lift access to all floors.

Most city centre properties include hearing loops in reception and meeting rooms.

Visual fire alarms and vibrating pillow alarms are available on request.

Many hotels offer accessible bathrooms with grab rails and emergency pull cords.

Key Accessibility Features:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and rooms
• Roll-in showers with fold-down seats
• Visual and audio fire safety systems
• Accessible parking spaces
• Hearing loop systems

Staff receive disability awareness training to assist guests with specific needs.

Pet-Friendly Stays

Several York hotels welcome pets with dedicated amenities and services.

The Grand Hotel & Spa provides pet beds, food bowls, and welcome treats.

Dog-walking services are available through local partners.

Grays Court Hotel allows pets in ground-floor rooms with direct garden access.

Pet-friendly properties usually charge extra fees of £15-30 per night and offer information about nearby parks and dog-friendly restaurants.

Pet Amenities Include:

• Comfortable pet bedding and blankets
• Food and water bowls
• Welcome treats and toys
• Dog-walking service recommendations
• Local pet-friendly venue guides

Most pet-friendly hotels require advance booking and proof of vaccinations.

Conclusion

York offers accommodation options for every traveller and budget.

From luxury boutique hotels in Georgian townhouses to modern serviced apartments with riverside views, visitors can find the perfect base for exploring the city.

The variety includes bed and breakfasts and contemporary hotels with modern amenities.

The city’s compact size means most accommodations place guests within walking distance of major attractions like York Minster and the city walls.

Whether you choose the bustling city centre or quieter riverside locations, each area offers unique advantages.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Visitors often ask about the best areas to book accommodation and what makes certain stays special in York.

The city centre and Bootham areas offer the most convenient locations for first-time visitors.

Unique options range from luxury spa hotels to charming Georgian townhouses.

Which part of York is best to stay in?

The city centre stands out as the best area for most visitors.

This location puts guests within walking distance of major attractions like York Minster and the city walls.

Bootham offers another excellent choice for accommodation and provides easy access to the main sights.

This area is quieter than the bustling centre.

First-time visitors benefit from staying in these central areas, making it easier to explore York.

What are unique places to stay in York?

Middlethorpe Hall & Spa provides a luxury experience in a restored 17th-century country house.

The property features award-winning spa facilities and sits in extensive gardens just outside the centre.

No1 by GuestHouse offers boutique accommodation in a Georgian townhouse with stylish rooms and personalised service.

The Grand, York combines Victorian grandeur with modern amenities in the heart of the city.

What is the nicest area of York city?

The historic city centre is York’s most attractive area for visitors.

Medieval streets wind between well-preserved buildings, creating an authentic atmosphere.

The area around York Minster showcases some of the city’s finest architecture.

Gothic buildings and ancient stone walls provide a stunning backdrop for accommodation.

Bootham features tree-lined streets and Georgian townhouses, creating an elegant residential feel near the main attractions.

Where to stay in York, London?

York is in North Yorkshire, not London.

These are two separate cities about 200 miles apart in England.

Search for “York, England” or “York, North Yorkshire” for the correct location.

The historic city sits roughly 200 miles north of London.

Travellers from London can reach York by train in about two hours.

Direct rail services connect London King’s Cross and York station several times daily.

Is York worth visiting?

York ranks among the UK’s top cities to visit.

The city’s living heritage and medieval streets attract millions of visitors each year.

York Minster is one of Europe’s finest Gothic cathedrals and a must-see attraction.

The city walls offer a unique experience, allowing visitors to walk along 13th-century fortifications.

This two-mile circuit provides excellent views and connects many of York’s key attractions.

Which family-friendly accommodations in York come highly recommended for those travelling with children?

Best Western Kilima Hotel caters well to families with children. The property offers family rooms and easy access to York’s main attractions without the noise of the busy city centre.

The 3 Bed House with free parking is located 10 minutes from the city centre. This accommodation suits families seeking space and convenience.

It provides multiple bedrooms and eliminates parking concerns for those travelling by car.

Many family-friendly options include amenities like connecting rooms. Child-friendly dining is also available.

Properties outside the immediate city centre often offer more space. These quieter environments suit children well.

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