York is a fascinating destination that attracts all kinds of visitors, and here are some of the best boutique hotels to stay in while exploring the area.
York is an iconic cathedral city in the majestic region of Yorkshire, famed for its cobbled streets, historic buildings, Roman heritage, and long legacy throughout the ages.
York City is one of the most visited destinations in the UK since it is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites and was created by the Romans, who ruled the famous city for three centuries.
However, it is not just a place that attracts history buffs and those looking for a cultural experience; nature lovers are drawn to the peaceful surroundings, which promise fantastic walks and endless hiking opportunities.
If you fancy a trip to this world-famous city, here are the best boutique hotels in York to consider.
The rundown – our top picks for the best boutique hotels in York
- Best Five-Star Boutique Hotel: The Grand York
- Best Boutique Hotel in the Centre: Hotel Indigo York
- Best Boutique Hotel for Couples: Hotel du Vin
- Best Boutique Hotel with a View: Middlethrope Hall & Spa
- Best Boutique Hotel for Families: Maison Parfaite YO1
- Best Boutique Hotel with a Rooftop Bar: Malmaison York
- Best Boutique Hotel with a Beer Garden: The Churchill Hotel
- Best Boutique Hotel with a Pub: The Fat Badger York Sure Hotel
- Best Boutique Hotel with a Spa: No.1 by Guesthouse York
- Best Historic Boutique Hotel: Minster Walk Guesthouse
The best boutique hotels in York – WBL’s tips and advice
- York is a hot spot for tourists, so if you plan to stay at one of these boutique hotels in York, always book in advance and never leave it until the last minute, as prices will go up and your preferred dates may become unavailable.
- Booking.com is the best site for booking boutique hotels in York.
- Check out previous customer reviews before your stay to ensure you’re picking the best hotel for you.
- York Minster, the York Dungeons, and the Shambles, one of the most beautiful streets in Europe, are some of the most popular places to visit in York.
Where to stay in York – the best areas
City Centre: If you plan to visit one of the oldest cities in Europe, you should consider staying in the city centre, which oozes character and history. You can explore the museums, wander the cobbled streets, and take romantic boat tours.
Bootham: For those on a budget, this is the best neighbourhood to seek out hotels since it is a local area yet still close to the centre. It is ideal for those who want to be close to the hustle and bustle yet can retreat to their tranquil hotel on the outskirts.
South Bank: For the best spa hotels and nature spots, South Bank is the place to stay. With lots of nature parks, walking paths and green areas to enjoy, this is a beautiful spot to stay in, in York City.
1. The Grand York − a haven for luxury in York City
Overview: The Grand York is a fantastic choice for a five-star boutique hotel in the heart of the city, but if you thought the location was the main feature, wait until you see what this exquisite hotel offers. From fine dining to a deluxe spa, the choices are endless when staying at this popular hotel.
The hotel is close to: York City Centre
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is one of the most popular and sought-after boutique hotels in York, which we recommend booking in advance.
The hotel is perfect for: A luxurious getaway
Key features include:
- A luxury spa and wellness centre with spa treatments and wellness therapies
- A modern fitness centre as well as a sauna, steam room, hot tub and large pool
- A choice of excellent dining options, from breakfast to late-night snacks
- Beautifully decorated rooms with luxury toiletries, linens and a turn-down service each evening
- This hotel is York’s only AA 5 Star Hotel
Address: Station Rise, York YO1 6GD, United Kingdom
2. Hotel Indigo York – located in the historic centre
Overview: One of the most stylish hotels in York has to be Hotel Indigo, an IHG hotel in York. This hotel is eye-catching, has a great location in the heart of the thriving city, and features some excellent facilities to make your stay extraordinary.
The hotel is close to: York City Centre
The hotel is perfect for: A city escape
Key features include:
- An excellent location just steps from the centre and many attractions
- Each luxury room is tastefully decorated with Yorks’s history in mind
- The on-site Bar serves local specialities and international beverages ideal for a casual drink
- Each room has a rainfall shower, luxury toiletries and Egyptian cotton linens
- Parking is located just a two-minute walk away on a first-come, first-served basis
Address: 88-96 Walmgate, York YO1 9TL, United Kingdom
3. Hotel du Vin – a romantic place to lay your head
Overview: Boasting elegant boutique-style rooms, a central location in the heart of York, and a popular bistro restaurant, Hotel du Vin & Bistro York is another great boutique option. Located in the Mount area of York, this hotel has elegant bedrooms in a charming 19th-century listed building.
The hotel is close to: York City Centre
The hotel is perfect for: A romantic holiday
Key features include:
- The Bistro serves modern European fare with ingredients from the local family farm
- 44 beautiful rooms and suites to choose from, many of which allow pets
- Extensive wine cellars with a range of choices
- Rooms feature Egyptian cotton linen, roll-top baths and luxurious beds
- The stylish Bar offers cocktails, a selection of wines and nooks and crannies to sit back and enjoy some quiet time
- Luggage storage & 24-hour front desk
Address: 89 The Mount, York YO24 1AX, United Kingdom
4. Middlethorpe Hall & Spa – magnificent views and luxurious rooms
Overview: We know that some people love staying in a tranquil setting while being close enough to explore the attractions and culture of a town; that is why Middlethorpe Hall & Spa is one of the best boutique hotels in York.
The hotel is close to: York Racecourse
The hotel is perfect for: A retreat to the countryside
Key features include:
- Each elegant room comes with a view of the magnificent gardens
- The hotel serves award-winning food at its on-site eateries
- Their boutique spa offers spa treatments, relaxation areas and beauty treatments
- An indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa bath and steam room
- Free on-site parking is available
Address: Bishopthorpe Rd, York YO23 2GB, United Kingdom
5. Maison Parfaite YO1 – a historic and stylish townhouse in the centre
Overview: If you are looking for a unique apartment-style boutique hotel that features incredibly modern rooms, is located in a 400-year-old heritage building and is ideal for large groups or families, this has to be it. With a host of terrific amenities, plenty of space and a central location, consider a stay at this popular spot.
The hotel is close to: York Railway Station
The hotel is perfect for A private and homely stay
Key features include:
- This holiday home features four bedrooms, a living room, three bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen
- Accommodates up to ten guests and allows pets
- A three-story townhouse built in the 17th century
- Towels, toiletries, and bed linen is all of the highest quality
- Ideally located at York Railway Station and York City
Address: 124 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX, United Kingdom
6. Malmaison – featuring a rooftop bar for cocktails with a view
Overview: One of the best boutique hotels in York is Malmaison, whose chain of popular hotels is well known for its eclectic rooms, vibrant style and great dining options. You can indulge in excellent Japanese and British cuisine while being close to the town centre to explore eateries and bars in the historic centre. With incredible views of York Minster right from your room, this is another great choice.
The hotel is close to: York City Centre
The hotel is perfect for: A glitzy getaway
Key features include:
- Free, fast Wi-Fi and 24 hr. front desk
- A gym and spa on site
- A fantastic restaurant for dinner and Sora Bar for cocktails
- A range of stylish rooms and suites, all with private bathrooms and luxurious toiletries
- Private parking at the hotel
Address: 2 Rougier St, York YO90 1UU, United Kingdom
7. The Churchill Hotel – an excellent mix of contemporary and heritage
Overview: One thing that sets The Churchill Hotel apart from other boutique hotels in York is the perfect mix of heritage and contemporary style. House in a building dating back to 1827, you will find the original features paired nicely with modern facilities and décor, which is captivating.
The hotel is close to: York City Centre
The hotel is perfect for: A comfortable and relaxing breakaway
Key features include:
- Free parking and free Wi-Fi
- Award-winning brasserie which serves local produce and seasonal Yorkshire food
- The Wellington Bar is on-site to enjoy a casual drink
- A newly opened beer garden with wood fired pizza oven
- Located in quiet surroundings yet within walking distance of the historic centre
Address: 65 Bootham, Clifton, York YO30 7DQ, United Kingdom
8. The Fat Badger York Sure Hotel – the place to cosy up with some great food and ale
Overview: This 17th Century pub by Best Western is ideal for a memorable stay in one of the city’s most characterful hotels. Featuring a traditional Yorkshire pub which serves some of the best local ales and authentic pub grub, this much-loved British Inn is one of the best choices for a stay in York. This is a great 4-star hotel in the centre of York.
The hotel is close to: York Minster
The hotel is perfect for: A traditional experience
Key features include:
- Their traditional Yorkshire pub features a beer garden
- The Restaurant overlooks the city and serves delicious seasonal favourites is 2AA Rosette, awarded
- 12 comfortable ensuite bedrooms, each individually decorated
- Their pub serves traditional pub food and beer from local breweries, plus an extensive choice of gins
- Ideally located just two minutes from York Minster, and discounted parking is available close by
Address: 2-4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH, United Kingdom
9. No.1 by Guesthouse York – with excellent dining and a relaxing spa
Overview: Just a ten-minute walk from York Minster, you will come to this boutique hotel with many features that make it a popular choice for anyone looking for a memorable stay in York. Not only is it located right in the heart of the city, but you will feel a world away when relaxing in their tranquil spa. Plus, you can bring your furry friend with you since it is pet friendly.
The hotel is close to: York City Centre
The hotel is perfect for: A city spa break
Key features include:
- The Grade II listed building has many original features
- 39 tastefully decorated rooms and suites located on the hotel’s three floors
- The tranquil spa provides bespoke treatments and spa rituals using eco-luxury products
- The Bar is perfect for cocktails on the terrace, a cosy indoor beer or as a quirky hangout
- The Bootham Room provides private dining options for those who want a special treat
Address: 1 Clifton, York YO30 6AA, United Kingdom
10. Minster Walk Guesthouse – a historic hotel with a warm welcome
Overview: Overlooking the historic city walls of York but yet boasting an excellent location where you can absorb peace and tranquillity, Minster Walk Guesthouse is a consistent favourite for those staying in York. If you are a breakfast enthusiast, this is your prime spot since their ‘Breakfast Experience’ makes them unique.
The hotel is close to: York Minster
The hotel is perfect for: A cosy and relaxing experience
Key features include:
- Egyptian cotton linen in all rooms; some rooms feature a York Minster view
- Complimentary homemade cakes and baked treats are served in the lounge
- All rooms have their signature Minster Walk Breakfast Experience
- Pocket-sprung mattresses are standard in all rooms, ensuring a restful night’s sleep
- Situated in a building that dates back to the 1600s, which is steeped in history
Address: 22 Marygate, York YO30 7BH
Notable mentions
- Best Boutique Hotel in the Centre: Moxy York, Judges Court Hotel
- Best Hotels for Couples: Grays Court Hotel, Mercure York Fairfield Manor
- Best Hotels with a View: Hilton York, York Mariott Hotel
- Best Hotels for Families: Novotel York Centre, Middletons Hotel; Clementine’s Town House Hotel
- Best Hotels with a Rooftop Bar: Double Tree by Hilton Leeds, Hotel Gotham
- Best Hotels with a Beer Garden: Exhibition Hotel, The Watergate Inn
- Best Hotels with a Pub: Guy Fawkes Inn, Roman Bath
- Best Hotels with a Spa: The Parsonage Hotel & Spa, Aldwark Manor Hotel & Spa
- Best Historic Hotels: Principal York, Dean Court York
Your questions answered about the best boutique hotels in York
If you’ve read our article and still have some questions left unanswered, never worry! We have compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions both to us and from online about the topic.
How much does it cost to stay in a boutique hotel in York?
You can expect to pay between €63 – 130 per night in York.
Where is the best place to stay in York?
Bootham is a fantastic location if you want to be close to York City but also in the quiet surroundings – here, you get the best of both worlds.
Are there any pet-friendly hotels in York?
Yes, Hotel du Vin, No.1 by Guesthouse York and Maison Parfaite YO1 are all pet friendly.
Fancy a trip to York? Now that you’ve seen the best boutique hotels in York, all of which stand out for their reasons, which one would you choose?
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