The Best Guesthouses in York (2026)

Bar Convent

York has so much to do that often all you want is a simple and friendly place to stay rather than the fuss of a big hotel. Fortunately, the city has a good range of high-quality guest houses and B&Bs, usually in quiet residential areas yet still within walking distance of - or on a good bus route to - the city centre. The best guesthouses in York don't skimp on comfort - some have gardens or attractive sitting-rooms - and all the ones we've selected pride themselves on their breakfasts. In our opinion, these are often better than many a four-star hotel.

For great value

Bar Convent

  • One of York’s best-value guest houses is Bar Convent. This historic building - England's oldest living convent with a hidden chapel - is close to the train station and just outside the city walls so everything is within walking distance. Rooms are airy, and spick-and-span clean, and the made-to-order breakfasts will set you up for the day. There’s even a kitchen if you want to rustle up your own meals, plus a lovely sheltered garden.

For the location

B and B York

  • Located just minutes from the historic York city walls B+B York offers fresh contemporary rooms. Unfussy and with professional staff, this property is an easy place to use as a base for exploring the city on foot.

Still not sure?

Written by Helen Pickles

The Best Guesthouses in York

Bar Convent Guesthouse

Bar Convent Guesthouse

York

A unique guesthouse in an elegant living convent. Newly refurbished comfortable rooms, a baroque chapel, Victorian garden and a glass-roofed entrance hall make this an impressive building. A cafe serves meals until high tea. Best of all is staying amongst the sisters of the convent.

  • Total relaxation - Unwind in this tranquil convent, enjoy afternoon tea in the walled garden and read up on the town's history in the library
  • Quirky - The living convent is open to guests, which means guests can explore the lovely gold and white Baroque chapel
  • Local exploring - York has a huge amount of history (starting at the hotel itself) making this ideal for a cultural getaway
  • Historic - This is England's oldest convent founded in 1686
from $180 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
B+B York

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 $191 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Back to articles

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

The Hotel Guru is a curated hotel recommendation platform that delivers expert-selected luxury and boutique properties straight to your inbox. No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.