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The Best Hotels to Book near York Racecourse

After a busy day at the races, relax and unwind at one of these properties close to York Racecourse
After a busy day at the races, relax and unwind at one of these properties close to York Racecourse | © Alan Stone / Alamy Stock Photo

York Racecourse makes for a convivial day out, with its racing fixtures including the Yorkshire Ebor Festival and Family Sundays. Just outside the city centre in Knavesmire, the races are a change of pace from visiting historic attractions like York Minster and the Jorvik Viking Centre. Need somewhere to stay before donning your finest clobber and heading to the Country Stand? From friendly B&Bs to upscale hotels with pools, there are a clutch of top places to stay nearby – all bookable on Culture Trip.

York Pavilion Hotel

Hotel

Grand exterior of York Pavilion Hotel has a red brick building with moss growing on it, flower bushes and a side walkway
Courtesy of York Pavilion Hotel / Expedia

With ivy creeping up the handsome brickwork of this garden-set hotel, it’s easy to believe you’re in a country idyll rather than a quick drive from York’s city centre, racecourse and university. Seven rooms have antique four posters, and, across the road, there are also one-bedroom suites with sitting rooms and kitchenettes. The hotel brasserie offers well-priced classics. Save room for the sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce.

Middlethorpe Hall & Spa

Spa Hotel

Middlethorpe Hotel & Spa - York
Courtesy of Middlethorpe Hotel and Spa / Expedia
Once the home of diarist Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, Middlethorpe Hall sits in 20 acres of gardens, complete with its own ha-ha and lake. The elegant interiors suit the splendid setting. The boutique spa – with its treatment rooms and indoor pool – is housed in Edwardian cottages, whilst the gym is tucked away in a restored Victorian summer house. Dinner is served in the smart, award-winning restaurant overlooking the lawn. From here, you’re within walking distance of the racecourse.

Hotel du Vin York

Hotel

Tables set for dining in the stylish restaurant at Hotel du Vin, with hanging plants from the conservatory roof and potted plants around the room
Courtesy of Hotel du Vin / Expedia

The Hotel du Vin brings its brand of affable, modern comfort to this 19th-century mansion house in the Mount area of York. Here, you’re away from the tourist hubbub, although both York Racecourse and the medieval City Walls are a manageable 20-minute walk away. Enjoy dinner in the popular French-style brasserie, beneath the high glass ceiling and cascading foliage.

The Principal York

Hotel

Columns, parquet flooring and plush seating in the elegant lobby at the Principal York
Courtesy of Principal York / Expedia

Dating back to the golden age of railway, this grand Victorian station hotel is on the right side of the city for the races. Expect understated glamour in the rooms, each with marble-clad bathrooms featuring rainfall showers. Dine on the terrace in the summer months or cosy up in the dining space come winter, after a dip in the indoor pool. Afternoon tea in the garden room is something of a York rite of passage.

Middletons Hotel

Hotel

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Courtesy of Middletons Hotel / Expedia.com

Middletons is made up of six Grade II-listed buildings, centred around a courtyard garden. Stylish, unfussy bedrooms include larger boltholes with king-size doubles and two bunks. Following a day at the races, you can tuck into favourites like beef and ale pie in the lounge or out on the lawn. Cardio enthusiasts should make a beeline for the light, airy fitness studio, plus there are yoga classes for zen-seekers.

Roomzzz Aparthotel York City

Apartment

Kitchen and lounge area at Roomzzz has grey and white furnishings, a modern kitchen and unique lighting art
Courtesy of Roomzzz / Expedia

Even the studios come with king-size beds, fitted kitchens and dishwashers at this modern aparthotel. Need a little more space? The split-level one- or two-bedroom apartments are good options for groups and families. On site, there’s also a free-to-use gym. Pick up your grab-and-go breakfast, then stroll along the banks of the River Ouse, through leafy Rowntree Park, to reach York Racecourse.

Ashbourne House

Hotel, Bed and Breakfast

Ashbourne House
Courtesy of Ashbourne House / Expedia.com

Owners Ricardo and Fiona Gabbiadini have years of hospitality experience, which shines through this six-room bed and breakfast to the south of the city. The comfortable rooms are spotless, and given notice, the amenable hosts will tailor the award-winning breakfasts to meet a range of requirements. A wander through the park, across Millennium Bridge, will lead you towards the racecourse. Alternatively, you’re a 20-minute walk to an array of city-centre bars and restaurants.

The Limes

Hotel, Guesthouse

The Limes
Courtesy of The Limes / Expedia

There are plenty of pretty period touches at this double-fronted Victorian guesthouse, and an abundance of friendly hospitality, too. Ensuite rooms include a family option with bunks, and generous breakfasts are served in a homely dining room. The Limes is a handy 20-minute walk to York Racecourse, and about the same to the city centre. Order a drink at the bar and nurse it by the open fire.

For a more central stay, check out the best boutique hotels in York, or some cosy B&Bs to experience a warm Yorkshire welcome. There are plenty of ways to spend a weekend, not least by visiting one of the many colourful gardens in the city.

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