The Absolute Best Cheap Hotels to Book in York
Discover plenty of historic charm on a walk down the Shambles in York | © Greg Balfour Evans / Alamy Stock Photo
York might be renowned for being one of the pricier cities to visit in England. But you can still find affordable places to stay for a weekend getaway to explore York Minster, the Shambles, Jorvik Viking Centre and more. Here’s our roundup of the best cheap hotels so you can get the best value out of this historic city, bookable with Culture trip
Hedley House Hotel, for thoughtful details
Courtesy of Hedley House Hotel / Expedia.com
It’s the small details and personal touches that make Hedley House stand out above the rest in York. First of all, there’s a covered, outdoor spa in the garden, and a yoga studio – the only hot yoga studio in the city – to boot. Hotel-style rooms still retain Victorian features, like original fireplaces and sash windows, and apartments are kitted out with full kitchens for those who like a little more independence. Hearty meals are served in front of a wood-burning stove come dinner time.
Burn Hall Hotel, Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western, for Victorian grandeur
Courtesy of Burn Hall Hotel, Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western / Expedia.com
Ten miles (16km) outside of York, this former Victorian manor home sits within acres and acres of North Yorkshire countryside. The exterior might radiate Victorian grandeur, but rooms are surprisingly sleek and modern inside. Upgrade your stay with champagne, chocolates and fresh fruit on arrival, or indulge in some fine dining in the restaurant. Seasonal specials, like spiced belly pork, sit alongside pub grub classics on the menu, and the Sunday roast – laden with Yorkshire puddings, of course – is a sight to behold.
Galtres Lodge Hotel, for an Insta-friendly stay
Courtesy Galtres Lodge Hotel / Expedia.com
Right in the heart of the rambling, medieval streets of York, Galtres Lodge radiates history from every timber beam and stone fireplace. It’s not often that the standard rooms are the most characterful, but the small doubles here, tucked under the ancient eaves of the building, are quintessential medieval York. FOREST restaurant is an Instagram dream, dappled with plantlife and with a secret, heated garden out the back. Folk flock here for the scrumptious brunches and Yorkshire-produce-heavy dinner like the whole Yorkshire hog and rack of local lamb.
Guy Fawkes Inn, for a piece of British history
© Guy Fawkes Inn / Expedia
There aren’t many places in the world where you can stay overnight in the birthplace of one of the most infamous criminals in Britain. While centuries have passed since the birth of Guido Fawkes, the Guy Fawkes Inn still remains to tell the tales of the notorious rebel. Embrace the enigmatic past as you cosy up in the candlelit restaurant while dining on a feast of W. Peat’s award-winning sausages from the Conspirator’s Menu.
Middletons Hotel, for grandeur on a budget
Courtesy of Middletons Hotel / Expedia.com
Upon first glance, it’s hard to believe that the Middletons Hotel in York could be deemed as an affordable place to stay. Spread across an impressive six Grade II-listed buildings, Middletons is teeming with history – you don’t need to leave the premises to be transported back in time. The homely Cosy Room comes with proper chunky biscuits and fresh milk for a morning brew.
Safestay York, for hostel vibes
Courtesy of Safestay York / Expedia.com
With a hostel vibe at its core, Safestay York boasts both private and dorm rooms inside its quirky walls. The on-site bar area serves traditional pub food with an affordable price tag. Additionally, there are several common areas, including a dining hall kitted out with kitchen appliances, such as a toaster, kettle and fridge to store your own goods. Safestay York has thought of your every need when it comes to a comfortable, convenient stay.
Vikings Accommodation, for fresh lodgings
Courtesy of Vikings Accommodation
In the dreamy location of Bootham Crescent, Vikings Accommodation has an added touch of luxury at an affordable price. It encompasses everything about the Victorian era that it was built in, yet its rooms feel as though they were expertly decorated only yesterday. Inside the guest rooms, you’ll find a cosy fireplace, ornate wooden desks and fluffy throws for the ultimate cosy sojourn.
Elmbank Hotel, for a terrific location
Courtesy of Elmbank Hotel / Expedia.com
Rarely will you find a York hotel with an outstanding location for such an affordable price, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at Elmbank Hotel. Overlooking the remarkable grounds of York Racecourse, the rooms feature bright, bold fabrics and modern furniture with a chic vibe. Leetham’s Brasserie is the on-site hotel restaurant – the chefs’ expertise in Yorkshire dining boasts dishes such as ham hock terrine, lamb leg steak and succulent Angus beef burger.
Holmwood House Hotel, for period charm
Courtesy of Holmwood House Hotel / Expedia.com
With carefully restored rooms maintaining the original charm of the listed building, Holmwood House Hotel is a wonderful hotel in York for a quiet break. Each room has its own elegant, unique decor, while the rest of the property feels warm and welcoming as you make your way through the hotel walkways. While dinner isn’t available at Holmwood House Hotel, you can certainly enjoy a fabulous breakfast feast of croissants, fruits, muesli, kippers and more.
Astor York, for a fully featured hostel
Courtesy of Astor York / Expedia.com
Astor York is a hostel with private rooms, as well as small and large dorms. Comforts such as a self-catering kitchen, bar area, dining hall and outdoor terrace are all included in your stay at Astor York. Those looking to hit the town while in York will be pleased to know that your electronic keycard grants you 24-hour access to the property, while lockers, padlocks and adaptors are on hand to make your stay accessible and enjoyable.
These recommendations were updated on December 16, 2021 to keep your travel plans fresh.
