York hotels

Brimming with Edwardian charm, York’s only five-star hotel was once the headquarters of the influential North Eastern Railway Company. The unique blend of heritage features and modern luxury makes this hotel my top pick for a luxurious stay in York.
It sits in a prime location in the historic center within walking distance of the medieval walls and main shopping streets. Amenities are what you might expect of a five-star stay, with accommodating staff and porters ready to assist with bags, local dining tips and concierge requests.
The opulent on-site spa is housed inside former vaults and features a surprisingly large 14-meter heated swimming pool, whirlpool and dry sauna. Food-wise, you can feast on modern-British dishes at award-winning The Rise restaurant or opt for swanky fine dining at The Legacy. To wind down, I recommend you sink into a plush chair in the velvet-adorned whisky lounge and browse the extensive drinks menu featuring over 100 spirits.

The Hotel Du Vin & Bistro York is a former 19th-century orphanage that’s been thoughtfully repurposed into a Grade II-listed boutique lodging. Located in one of my favorite areas of York for appreciating architecture – the Mount neighborhood, Hotel Du Vin is in excellent company. Surrounded by grand Victorian houses and leafy streets, it’s a residential-feeling stay that’s still close to the city.
Décor bears the uniformity of Hotel Du Vin properties, with a refined color palette and luxurious furnishings that inject character into historic spaces and nooks. Rooms and suites are individually decorated and feature the period hallmarks of a Georgian House and feature unique wine-themed touches.
The Elegant Bistro du Vin is decked with faux greenery and is where the hotel shines, with brasserie-style dining with classic French cuisine and an impressive wine list. For stays Monday to Thursday, order two or three courses from their special price prix fixe menu and save money on dinner.

Set on twenty acres of manicured parklands, Middlethorpe Hall and Spa offer a swish countryside escape just a ten-minute drive from York’s city center. Initially built in 1699 and leased to famed diarist Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, was saved from dereliction by Historic House Hotels in the 1980s and gifted to the National Trust in 2008, the property has transformed from a neglected estate into one of the most luxurious hotels in York.
Design-wise, it’s British country manor vibes throughout, and each of the 29 rooms has an individual feel and small touches – including fresh flowers. Expect antique furniture, plush fabrics and oil paintings in comfortable lodgings.
Their secluded spa is one of my preferred wellness spots in York, with rejuvenating health and beauty therapies and a large indoor pool offering views of the private garden. Remember to feast on the gourmet tasting menu and enjoy a candle-lit dinner for two in the award-winning restaurant.