The Wold Cottage

Glorious Yorkshire in the north of England is a firm family favourite. From the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, to the rugged coastline of the North Sea and the fascinating history of the ancient city of York, there is so much to explore. And there's a huge range of accommodation options too from cute and cosy rural retreats and charming coastal escapes to grand historic city hotels with great amenities for little ones. Whether you're looking for the flexibility of self-catering, traditional seaside fun or somewhere that welcomes the dog too, there's a family-friendly option to suit you.

For historic York

The Fat Badger

  • The Fat Badger, a historic Georgian inn in the shadow of York's medieval walls, oozes character with its cosy bar and 12 low-ceilinged bedrooms. Enjoy the view of The Minster from the gardens, dine in the classic pub restaurant, which also offers a children's menu, and stay in charming rooms with space to add extra beds in some of the larger ones. Ideally situated for exploring the sights.
  • A towering block of red-brick and handsome stonework, The Grand Hotel offers a fabulous five-star family stay in York. Think original features, oak-panelled rooms and elegant marble interiors. There's a spa in the original vaults and a whisky lounge for the grown-ups, while the Grand Family Rooms comfortably sleep four. A spoiling city escape.
  • Situated just a few minutes from the city's historic walls, B+B York is perfectly positioned for exploring the city on foot. There's a selection of family rooms that sleep up to four, a full breakfast is included, it's dog-friendly, and parking is available. All you need for a chic, well-priced city getaway.
  • A boutique hotel set over two Grade II-listed townhouses, New Holgate is close to York's main attractions. Families can spread out in the luxury suites, which sleep six and have a separate living space, or in the St Paul’s suite with its enclosed basement terrace — a handy space for those with dogs or small children. 
  • If you prefer to be away from the tourist crowds, Hotel du Vin & Bistro York in the Mount area is ideal. This 19th Century, listed building features tasteful furnishings, original architectural details, and artwork that brings York's fascinating history to life. Extra beds can be placed in rooms, or you can opt for interconnecting rooms if you're travelling with older kids. 

For a self-catering stay

The White Hart Hotel

  • The White Hart Hotel in the centre of Harrogate’s stylish Montpellier Quarter fits in perfectly with its surroundings. Set in a grand Victorian building, interiors are very chic, plus it boasts two fabulous restaurants, one fine-dining, one more relaxed. Montpellier House, next door, offers seven serviced apartments with two to four bedrooms  perfect for families.
  • A Georgian country house nestled in 300 acres, The Wold Cottage is set in glorious walking country between Driffield and Scarborough. The two self-catering cottages sleep up to four with fully-equipped kitchens and wood-burning stoves (or there's a family suite in the main house if you'd prefer a B&B option). Outside there's a private garden area, complete with outdoor seating and a barbecue. A perfect base for family adventures.
  • Known to many as the veterinary surgery from the original All Creatures Great and Small TV series, Skeldale House by Maison Parfaite is now a chic boutique hotel in the Yorkshire Dales. The large studios have sofa beds for kids, plus well-equipped kitchens, or you can book the whole house for a special family celebration.
  • You get the best of both worlds at The Plough at Scalby. Nestled between beaches and national parks, it's a good choice for families who love the great outdoors. Its three spacious cottages, equipped with beautiful bedrooms, kitchens and roomy living areas, are ideal for a quiet, relaxing base. And it's just over three miles to Scarborough for some traditional seaside fun.

For a rural retreat

The Wensleydale Heifer

  • Tucked away in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park between Leyburn and Hawes, The Wensleydale Heifer offers a charming country escape. With individually-themed bedrooms  including such favourites as Gin, Chocolate, Champagne and even James Bond  it has a relaxed atmosphere with comfy leather armchairs and log fires. Children's menus, outdoor activities, and dogs welcome, mean everyone is happy here.
  • A cosy traditional Inn on the edge of the beautiful and rugged Yorkshire Dales in East Witton, The Blue Lion is perfect for walking holidays and getting the family out in nature. Three rooms have sofa beds, there are kids' menus, plus dogs are welcome. With chic design, great food, and a stunning location, you get a lot for your money here.
  • Set in the heart of the pretty market town of Middleham, The Priory offers easy access to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The three-bedroomed self-catering Coach House is perfect for families wanting an independent stay, where French doors from the main bedroom lead to a rooftop terrace boasting lovely views.
  • Enjoy a taste of English stately-home living at Swinton Park Hotel, sitting at the heart of a 20,000-acre estate of moors, farms and villages. Bedrooms are large with views of parkland, gardens or distant moors. There's an 18m indoor pool to keep the kids amused, plus a spa, gym and golf course for the grown-ups.

For a dog-friendly getaway

Bike & Boot

  • Boasting a prime position overlooking Scarborough's South Bay, Bike & Boot is a fun pick with family rooms, casual dining, and a free film club showing three movies at three different times of the day. Plus, it's very dog-friendly; there are even dog grooming facilities on-site. Bring your bikes (there's a dedicated area for bike storage and cleaning) and spend days exploring the area on two wheels.
  • Dean Court, a landmark building in York, boasts a prime position opposite The Minster. All the major sights are walkable  the Walls are five minutes away, the National Railway Museum and the station are 10 minutes away, and the Castle Museum 15 minutes. There are five family rooms on offer, plus a special children's menu. Dogs are welcome too with complimentary treats, bowls and even an à la carte doggy menu!
  • Boar's Head Hotel is an Old Coaching Inn on the Ripley Castle Estate, surrounded by the Yorkshire Dales, so there are plenty of wonderful walks on the doorstep. Family suites are available, and dogs are welcome in certain rooms with dog beds, bowls and treats on offer. Its website even includes a Paw-trait Gallery where guests are invited to add photos of their own four-legged friends.
  • The grand-but-friendly NO.1 - YORK is just a 10-minute walk from York Minster and boasts huge sash windows, high ceilings, and a sweeping central staircase. Family rooms come with playful touches like mini tipis and bedtime books, while there are dog beds, dog treats and even a trusted local dog walker to give your pooch the perfect morning exercise and give you the perfect lie-in!

For a coastal escape

La Rosa Hotel

  • Situated in an elegant period townhouse on Whitby's West Cliff, La Rosa Hotel is a unique seaside escape. You won't find TVs or phones in the rooms this is a place to unwind and get away from it all. Gilded mirrors, birdcages, bunting and chandeliers adorn the interior, giving it a wonderful vintage feel. There's a cocktail bar and tea room, plus a third-floor apartment which sleeps up to six.
  • The White Horse and Griffin is another Whitby gem that features character in spades. Quirky interiors boast original panelling, fireplaces and exposed timbers. The spacious self-catering cottage sleeps up to six and offers families all the comforts of home with hotel amenities. Classic pub food is served in the restaurant with its flagged floor and raftered ceiling.

Still not sure? 

 

Written by Jan Gooderham

The 19 Best Family Friendly Hotels in Yorkshire

Boar's Head Hotel

Yorkshire (North Yorkshire)

The Old Coaching Inn on the Ripley Castle Estate offers an elegant, intimate stay with classic rooms filled with antiques and paintings. Both formal and bistro dining is popular with guests and the locals. Visit nearby Harrogate, explore the Yorkshire Dales and the 14th Century castle.

  • Local exploring - Whether you want to explore local historical sites, spend the day at the races, or go hiking - there is plenty to keep busy with
  • Country Escape - A perfect spot to getaway from it all, nestled in the extensive grounds of Ripley Castle and surrounded by the Yorkshire Dales
  • Families - Children of all ages are well catered for with children's menu and toys plus various sleeping arrangements for families
  • Pet friendly - Dogs are welcomed at £10.00 per day. Treats, beds and water bowls are provided and there are plenty of lovely walks
from £130 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Swinton Park Hotel

Yorkshire (North Yorkshire)

Striking, castle-like stately-home set in sweeping parkland and offering plenty of on-site activities from fishing and golf to a cookery school and sleek spa. Vast rooms, beautiful views and a choice of two restaurants.

  • Families - Magical Yorkshire hideaway in a castle with pkenty of space, interconnecting rooms, and fun activities for kids
  • Cooking classes - Variety of courses run throughout the year at the on site cookery school
  • Country Escape - In a great locality to explore this beautiful and rugged part of the UK
  • Honeymoons - A perfect spot for newly weds to hideaway in rural luxury
from £323 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Hotel du Vin & Bistro York

York

Located in the Mount area of York - Hotel du Vin has delightful, elegant bedrooms in a charming 19th Century, listed building. Expect lots of cosy romantic spots to enjoy drinks and nibbles before venturing out to explore this fabulous city. A chic base.

  • Short break - York is packed full of cultural sites, pretty cobbled streets, and good restaurants - an ideal destination for a weekend jaunt
  • Families - Extra beds can be placed in rooms or there's the option of interconnecting rooms for older kids
  • Foodies - The classic French restaurant with a superb wine list is one of York's most popular restaurants
  • City Style - A period Georgian property having undergone a chic renovation giving it a dark and clubby vibe
from £110 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Dean Court

York

A landmark building in York boasting a prime position opposite the Minster. A pretty traditional exterior opens onto chic modern interiors featuring soft hues, clean lines and chic black tiled bathrooms. The cuisine is unfussy, local and undeniably good and staff are friendly and attentive.

  • Families - The five family rooms on offer and the childrens' menu make this an ideal choice for those travelling with children
  • Short break - Petite York is ideal for a quick weekend break - packed full of cultural sites all within a small area
  • Local exploring - Centrally located with many of the city's main attractions within walking distance
  • Sights nearby - Visit York Minster, the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe
from £149 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Wensleydale Heifer

Yorkshire (West Witton)

Situated in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park between Leyburn and Hawes, the Wensleydale Heifer has five dedicated chefs, an award winning contemporary restaurant and a less formal fish bar. Wonderful array of unusual themed bedrooms from the James Herriot to the swanky Night at the Movies

  • Suites - Suites are all individually decorated and themed, choose from Choclate Heaven, 007, Black Sheep or Champagne suite
  • Families - Perfect for families with a relaxed atmosphere, childrens' menus, outdoor activities, and the dog welcome too
  • Total relaxation - Comfortable leather armchairs, log fires and afternoon tea are a welcome respite after a walk in the Dales
  • Restaurant - Awarding wining restaurant, expect locally sourced food and wonderful proper Yorkshire breakfasts
from £120 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The White Horse and Griffin

Whitby (North Yorkshire)

A 17th-century coaching inn, tucked beneath Whitby’s historic abbey, that creaks with character. Its ten quirkily shaped rooms mix original features with a cool, fresh look while the restaurant offers a bistro-style menu. Distinguished guests include the likes of Dickens and Captain James Cook.

  • Families - The spacious self-catering cottage sleeps up to six and offers families all the comforts of home yet with hotel amenities
  • Active Holiday - Located near to the Yokshire Moors, this is a cosy base to return to after a day hiking, cycling or fishing
  • Full of character - With wonky walls, sloped ceilings, exposed beams, and roaring fires this is a characterful historic stay
  • Historic - The building is one of the oldest and most iconic properties on the east side of the town
from £80 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

La Rosa Hotel

Whitby

Commanding one of the best positions in Whitby, high on the West Cliff with views of the famed Abbey, this hotel is just as startling inside. An Aladdin’s cave of vintage-themed rooms, it charms and disarms. There are even afternoon tea parties. A whimsical British stay.

  • Full of character - Expect interiors that are eclectic, theatrical, and a little bit whimsical - a very British stay
  • Families - The third floor apartment which sleeps up to six is a comfortable stay for families
  • Value chic - Charming, reasonably priced with idiosyncratic rooms - an attractive stay
  • Views - Spectacular views overlooking the harbour onto the ruins of Whitby Abbey
from £154 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Wold Cottage

Yorkshire (Driffield)

A picture perfect Georgian country house set in 300 acres of manicured gardens. Spacious rooms are traditionally dressed with warm hues, antique furniture, fireplaces and the best boast four-posters. The breakfasts are award-winning and service friendly and efficient. A charming stay.

  • Active Holiday - Whether golf, horse riding, hiking or cycling is your thing - there are a wide range of outdoor pursuits in the area
  • Families - The two self-catering cottages that sleep up to four are ideal for families looking for an independent stay
  • Country Escape - A luxury rural property surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and set in glorious walking country.
  • Riding - For real horse enthusiasts stables can be hired for £10 a night and there is lovely riding in the area
from £110 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The White Hart Hotel

Harrogate (Harrogate)

A luxurious hotel in an impressive grade II-listed Georgian house in the smartest quarter of Harrogate. Spacious rooms are cleanly designed with a mix of contemporary and traditional styles. Boasting two fabulous restaurants, one fine-dining, one more relaxed. Ideal for indulgent weekend breaks.

  • Local exploring - A grand historic property in the heart of Harrogate with both the town's sights and surrounding countryside within easy access
  • Foodies - Choose between the traditional pub or the award-winning Fat Badger Grill for meals - both very good
  • Families - The option to book one of the two, three or four bedroom serviced apartments is ideal for families
  • Sights nearby - Take a tour of the privately owned Ripley Castle
from £81 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Blue Lion

Yorkshire (North Yorkshire)

A charming traditional Inn located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Cosy rooms are quintessentially British with gingham or Chinese print fabrics, antique furniture and beamed ceilings. The bar and restaurant is everything you want; roaring fires, hearty food, friendly service and good ales.

  • Foodies - Voted one of The Good Food Guide’s top 10 pubs for the past two decades - this is the quintessential pub experience
  • Country Escape - A cosy traditional Inn on the edge of the beautiful and rugged Yorkshire Dales - perfect for walking holidays
  • Families - Three rooms have sofa beds, there are kids' menus, and plenty of space for little ones to run around
  • Value chic - With chic design, great food, and a stunning location - you are getting a lot for your money here
from £150 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Skeldale House by Maison Parfaite

Yorkshire (North Yorkshire )

Once the set for the popular show All Creatures Great & Small, Skeldale house is now a chic boutique hotel. Each of the studios keeps its original charm but feels luxurious and contemporary. Fitted out with modern kitchens and with the option of private chefs, this is a luxe rural stay.

  • Active Holiday - With the Yorkshire Dales on your doorstep and the plethora of outdoor pursuits it holds there's something for everyone here
  • Charming - Skeldale House had a starring role as the veterinary surgery in the original series of All Creatures Great and Small
  • Boutique - Mixing mid-century style and sophistication with chic contemporary design - this is boutique perfection
  • Families - The large studios have sofa beds for kids while the well-equipped kitchen makes this an easy choice
from £172 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Grand Hotel

York

A well-named hotel in a historic, former railway-company HQ. Expect five-star levels of service, a spa and a fine AA Rosette restaurant offering modern British cuisine. Bedrooms and suites are vast, comfortable and designed for the modern traveller. A spoiling stay to discover York from.

  • Cooking classes - Half day, full day and evening courses for all levels of home cook at the award-winning cookery school
  • Families - The hotel takes particular care of families with family suites and especially crafted experiences
  • Foodies - With an excellent 3 AA Rosette restaurant, this is a great York destination for food lovers
  • 5* Luxury - With indulgent suites, spectacular service, and standout cuisine - this is a luxurious stay
from £169 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Priory

Yorkshire (West End )

An elegant property set in the heart of the pretty market town of Middleham. Beautifully renovated rooms mix traditional and contemporary styles with crisp white linen, exposed beams and antiques. With easy access to the Yorkshire Dales National Park this is the ideal place for a rural escape.

  • Country Escape - An elegant base with easy access to the Yorkshire Dales National Park and big copper bathtubs to return to after a day outdoors
  • Groups - With 4 rooms in the main house and a 3 bedroom cottage, this is a good option to rent out in its entirety as a group
  • Families - The 3 bedroomed self catering Coach House is perfect for families wanting an independent stay
  • Full of character - Expect exposed beams, open fireplaces, thick carpets, and copper bathtubs
from £170 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Plough at Scalby

Scarborough (Scalby )

This cosy inn is located on a beautiful stretch of the Yorkshire coast, nestled between beaches and national parks. Offering stylish, comfortable rooms and cottages, this is the perfect place for both a relaxing romantic getaway or an active family holiday.

  • Families - Rent out one of three comfortable, smart cottages - equipped with kitchens and living rooms
  • Back to Nature - Both the Raincliffe Woods and North York Moors National Park are nearby
  • Country Escape - Comfortable, stylish rooms offer total relaxation
  • Great walks - Follow the Sea Cut river through to Scarborough Bay or trek over to Robin Hood's Bay for a beautiful sea view
from £114 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Fat Badger

York (2-4 High Petergate)

This historic Georgian inn, in the shadow of the city’s medieval walls, oozes atmosphere from its cosy bars to its low-ceilinged bedrooms. Food is a cut above the average pub menu and there’s a good range of Yorkshire ales plus a hidden beer garden.

  • Foodies - The AA Rosette restaurant serves classic pub food with a modern twist, ideal for those interested in locally sourced produce
  • Families - With a children's menu, and space to add extra beds to some of the larger rooms, this would be a perfect spot for families
  • Local exploring - The hotel's proximity to all of the main attractions in York make it an ideal spot for exploring the city
  • Historic - Sat within the historic bar walls, this 17th century pub is packed full of character
from £158 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

B+B York

York

A chic B&B offering a superb location just minutes from York's historic city walls. Light and airy rooms are simply dressed with soft hues, light pine furniture and modern bathrooms. Hearty breakfasts are served. The perfect base to explore the city on foot.

  • Local exploring - Situated just a few minutes from the historic York walls this property is perfectly positioned for exploring the city by foot
  • Short break - York has a wealth of cultural & historical sites yet it is contained in a small area making it ideal for a weekend getaway
  • Families - A selection of family rooms that sleep up to four means this is an easy stay for families
  • Sights nearby - Visit York's main attraction, York Minster, the impressive 1000 year-old cathedral
from £142 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Bike & Boot

Scarborough (Scarborough)

A fun hotel with an outdoorsy ethos set overlooking South Bay. Rooms keep the building's original features but feel fresh and funky with pops of colour and contemporary artwork. There's a place for bikes, surfboards, and muddy boots while dogs are also made very welcome. Ideal for an active break.

  • Families - With family rooms, casual dining, fun design, a film club, and a focus on outdoor pursuits — this is ideal for family getaways
  • Active Holiday - As the name suggests, this place is all about being outdoors whether you want to hike, bike, or surf
  • Surfing - The area is well known for surfers and there's a place to store your board at the hotel
  • Sights nearby - Climb up to Scarborough Castle and enjoy the epic views from its vantage point
from £61 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

NO.1 - YORK

York

This stunner of a Georgian mansion has been given a cool 21st-century makeover that retains lovely period details but updates them with a laidback style, minimalist bedrooms and a cossetting spa. Family- and dog-friendly, too. A stylish fun base with easy access to the city's best sights.

  • Families - Children's treats include in-room tipis, instant cameras for capturing the best moments and kids' menus in the restaurant
  • Romantic Break - This newly renovated property offers individually styled rooms some with four posters plus a spa and a great restaurant
  • Local exploring - Well located for easy access to all of York's top sights
  • Sights nearby - No 1 is 10 minutes' walk from York Minster and don't miss the city walls
from £178 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

New Holgate

York (North Yorkshire)

A boutique hotel set over two Grade II listed townhouses in Holgate, close to York's main attractions. The rooms exude elegance and comfort, with railway references throughout celebrating the area's history. Breakfast is served in the orangery and there's an outdoor courtyard. A sophisticated stay.

  • Local exploring - Discover York Minster, one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, and learn about Vikings and Victorians at York’s museums
  • Families - Families can spread out in the luxury suites, which sleep six and have a separate living space
  • Local markets - Head to the famous Shambles Market, one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe
  • Sights nearby - It's a short walk to the impressive York city walls and the National Railway Museum
from £199 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

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