Imagine a city where ancient walls surround a contemporary and upbeat city – where influences from the Romans, Vikings, Tudors, and Victorians can be seen in the architecture and culture. Welcome to York!
This small English city is like a snapshot of British history, overflowing with historical museums and attractions, cutting-edge art galleries, and haunted pubs.
But there’s more to York than its fascinating history, and with tons of traditional English pubs, cozy tea rooms, and charming parks, it’s no wonder York is a crowd-favorite UK destination.
Perfectly positioned between London and Edinburgh, this city is surrounded by stunning English countryside landscapes, including the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors, and the Wolds.
As most old cities in the UK are, York is home to a bunch of outstanding B&Bs, boutique hotels, and cozy inns. Many of the best bed and breakfasts in York are family-run and operate from authentic Victorian or Tudor-era buildings. If you’re after a friendly and personalized home-away-from-home experience, you’ve come to the right place.
With that in mind, I’ve picked out the top ten B&Bs in York for any type of traveller.
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in York for One Night
Cozy and Affordable St Mary’s Guest House
This cozy and affordable bed and breakfast is conveniently located between the main attractions in York. It’s also got one of the best full English breakfasts around and is affordable to stay in!
- York Minster
- Kings Manor Library
- Betty’s Cafe Tea Rooms
Is this amazing York Bed & Breakfast booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our other favorite properties below!
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Unique Accommodation in York
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Staying in a Bed and Breakfast in York
Did you know that the UK is the birthplace of B&Bs? Of course, you could find a cozy inn or a boutique hotel in the middle of London and across other large cities, but the majority can be found on the outskirts of these urban centers, in rural countryside towns and villages.
While the 13th Century York Minster might be what attracts you to York, it will be the friendly locals, delicious eateries, and casual atmosphere that will make you want to stay.
Bed and breakfasts are a great accommodation option for a road trip around the UK, as they are often located in rural areas – so you can explore the moors, Wolds, and seaside villages for a true quintessential UK experience.
Bed and breakfasts are among the oldest and most traditional types of accommodation in these areas and will undoubtedly offer you a truly authentic English experience.
What to Look For in a Bed and Breakfast in York
Family-owned inns, B&Bs, and boutique hotels offer a uniquely personalized service that you won’t find at a commercial hotel. From the welcome you will receive on your arrival to the friendly and helpful service to the home-cooked breakfast, everything about this experience is wholesome and enjoyable.
When searching for a B&B, previous guest reviews are really important as they tell you about the experience first hand. We have all stayed in a hotel once that didn’t look quite like the pictures. Well, unfortunately, the same can be said for B&Bs.
You should also consider your location. York centre is not very big, but there is a large residential area around the city centre that can offer a quieter stay, as long as you don’t mind the commute in. There is also lush countryside and moors outside the city, which offer a quieter country escape. Where you stay in York could really impact your trip.
Another thing to look out for is whether it has all the facilities you need such as free parking (it is common to have on-street parking but check whether you need to pay for this), a private bathroom, free WiFi, and of course, free breakfast.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of priorities, you’re ready to start looking.
One of the greatest things about B&Bs is that the staff are usually the establishment’s owners. This means they are more likely to go above and beyond to ensure you have the best possible stay, as they take pride in their small business. Take it from me; your hosts will be glad to offer you a wealth of information and local advice about York.
Cozy and Affordable St Mary’s Guest House
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Cozy breakfast spot and in-room tea facilities
- > By York Station and the York Minster
Traditional B&B w/ Antique Furniture
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Great for long-term rentals
- > In the Bootham neighborhood, near the park
Luxury Boutique Hotel
- > $$$
- > 2 Guests
- > King bed and new bathroom
- > In the quiet Clifton neighborhood
Grove House B&B with Garden and Terrace
- > $$
- > 6 Guests
- > Local breakfast, board games room
- > In the countryside, a few miles from central York
Exquisite Contemporary B&B with In-Room Bar
- > $$$$
- > 2 Guests
- > 1750s building, 24-hour concierge, breakfast in bed
- > Overlooking 11th-century church of St Olaf’s
Beautiful Family Friendly B&B with Library and Garden
- > $$
- > 5 Guests
- > Cots and extra beds available on request
- > Walking distance to galleries, theatre, and library
Georgian Hostel w/ Pub
- > $
- > 1 Guest
- > Dormitory style and private rooms
- > In the heart of York, surrounded by restaurants
Looking for other types of accommodation? Check out our guide to Where to Stay in York!
The Top 10 Bed and Breakfasts in York
Whether you choose an affordable B&B in the attic above a local pub or splurge on a luxurious Victorian boutique B&B, the options are endless. No matter what type of traveller you are or what your budget is, you will find a B&B in York for you.
On that note, take a look at my pick of the top ten B&Bs in York:
Overall Best Value Bed and Breakfast in York – St Mary’s Guest House
No need to worry about hostels in York, this neat little B&B is fantastic value and in a great location. You’ll be very well looked after at the St Mary’s Guest House, which is perfectly located near York Minster and the Grand Opera House. Not only is this B&B centrally located, but it’s also super affordable for what it offers.
The rooms are simple yet well maintained, with private bathrooms and complimentary toiletries. There are ten rooms in the B&B, which can sleep between two and three people each. Conveniently for road trippers, the property includes free on-site parking.
Of course, as one of the best bed and breakfasts in York, you’ll wake up to a home-cooked full English and continental breakfast each morning of your stay.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
Best Budget Bed and Breakfast – Traditional B&B w/ Antique Furniture
Believe it or not, it isn’t too hard to find an inexpensive B&B in York. This is one of the coziest and affordable spots in the area, and best of all, it’s located a short walk from the historical center of the city.
This family-run Airbnb in York operates from a triple-story Victorian townhouse that is over 150 years old. The bedrooms are classically decorated with deep-colored walls and antique wooden furniture.
As an added bonus, the hosts even allow guests to host events, making this a top spot for a group of friends traveling together.
Budget Tip: Dorms in York start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Best Bed and Breakfast in York for Couples – Luxury Boutique Hotel
Not only is this the best bed and breakfast in York for couples, but it’s also one of the most beautiful in the city. Named the Bishop and the Bison, this B&B has found the perfect balance between luxurious and cozy.
This ground-floor room has a comfortable king-sized bed and overlooks the B&B courtyard, which guests have full access to. It’s decorated with classy interiors with a few quirky touches to make it feel like home.
Each morning of your stay, you’ll wake up to the faint smell of a full English breakfast being served in the contemporary breakfast room downstairs.
Best Bed and Breakfast for a Group of Friends – Grove House B&B
We picked the Grove House Bed and Breakfast as the best for friends because of its spacious garden and sunny terrace. This family-run B&B has been carefully curated to make sure guests feel right at home in the space.
In fact, the entire place will make you feel like you’re visiting family. Each room is unique and decorated with an eclectic style. After enjoying a delicious contemporary and full English breakfast with your friends in the breakfast room, feel free to play board games and puzzles in the common living area.
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View on Osprey View on REIOver-the-Top Luxury Bed & Breakfast – Luxe B&B w/ Mini-Bar
By nature, B&Bs aren’t usually over-the-top luxurious. However, this boutique spot has some five-star hotel amenities, making it the best bed and breakfast in York for those prepared to splurge. Jorvik House is a historic 1750s building remodeled with Scandinavian-inspired interiors.
Each room has an ensuite bathroom with clawfoot bathtubs, heated towel railings, branded toiletries, and luxurious gowns and slippers for guests to use. Luxury linen and simply yet elegantly designed spaces perfectly combine cozy with opulence.
Unlike many B&Bs, this spot has hotel-like facilities, including a 24-hour front desk, room service, a fully stocked bar, and daily housekeeping.
Best Bed and Breakfast for Families – Beautiful B&B with Library
Every inch of this beautiful spot in York looks professionally designed. The old Victorian home has been updated to maintain its authentic charm, including original stained-glass windows.
Located in the heart of the city, this B&B has a spacious shared living space and breakfast room, perfect for enjoying some quality time with your family.
Each bedroom is uniquely designed and features an ensuite bathroom, a TV, and self-serve tea facilities. The hosts will be happy to provide you with cots and extra beds to accommodate young children.
Best B&B in York for Backpackers – Georgian Hostel w/ Pub
If you’re visiting York alone as a backpacker or are just looking for a cheap place to stay, the Safestay York Hostel will suit you well. The 16th Century Georgian townhouse is only a five-minute walk from the city center and the JORVIK Viking Centre, making it one of the best bed and breakfasts in York for its location and price.
The hostel has a range of private and dormitory-style rooms, suitable for all budgets and travel party sizes. Enjoy a continental breakfast in the spacious dining room before heading out for the day, and settle in for a social drink at the on-site bar in the evening.
Most Unique B&B in York – Japanese & French Inspired Boutique
Each of the eight rooms in Tower Guest House offers unique accommodation with a homey atmosphere. This room is inspired by the lavish French Versailles interiors, while others take on a more simplistic Japanese influence. Every room comes fitted with a TV, safe, complimentary toiletries, and a self-service tea bar.
With an ensuite bathroom, luxurious linens, and plantation shutters, you won’t struggle to get a good night’s rest in this opulent room. Better yet, you’ll be able to wake up and enjoy a home-cooked breakfast in the shared dining room.
B&B with the Most Epic Location – Central Georgian Townhouse
This central lodge sits right in the beating heart of the city’s walkable cobblestone streets. The privately-owned space has an in-house restaurant and even allows you to bring along your pet. Breakfast is included in the rate, and the hosts allow long stays for more than 28 days, making it one of the most central and best bed and breakfasts in York for long-term rentals.
Every room is uniquely curated with updated interiors while preserving Georgian features, including oak beam ceilings, brick walls, and original fireplaces. This room has a luxuriously deep brass tub and overlooks views of the famous York Minster.
Most Traditional Bed and Breakfast in York – Gillygate Pub w/ Rooms
If you’re after a classic British experience, staying in a room above a local pub will surely do the trick. This B&B is simply remodeled with contemporary interiors. The rooms are clean, spacious, bright, and well-equipped; however, it’s the vibey pub beneath that gets the most attention.
While breakfast is included in your rate, you’ll be tempted to enjoy the classic English ‘grub’ served at the Gillygate Pub. The pub even offers Sunday roast dinners and has its own sun-drenched beer terrace.
Aside from its pleasantly social charm, it is well located, only a short walk from the railway station and major York attractions.
Don’t Forget Your York Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Bed and Breakfasts in York
York truly is a historical city overrun with charm and wonder. The ancient civilizations that lived in the area have left their mark in more ways than one. A visit to York would not be complete without spending some time in a locally run bed and breakfast, and let’s be frank – no one does a B&B better than the original inventors of the accommodation.
B&Bs offer a homey experience with a more personalized atmosphere than a large hotel. They’re often more affordable and come with a range of added benefits, including a friendly social scene, local knowledge offered by the hosts, homey touches, and a home-cooked breakfast to get you started for the day.
And if you’re not sure, I highly recommend theGillygate Pub, which is the most traditional B&B in York given that you’re sleeping above the bar. Can you get any more authentically British than that? Well, maybe if you consider a cottage in York.
Did you have a favourite on my list? Let me know in the comments.
When you’ve picked out the best bed and breakfast in York to suit your budget and travel needs, make sure you consider buying travel insurance for the trip (especially if you’re planning an overseas vacation).
Although York is considered a safe destination, you never know what might happen on your travels, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
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