WHERE TO STAY

The Grand Hotel, York

One of the UK’s top 5-star hotels, The Grand Hotel in York offers a level of service and luxury that you’ll struggle to find in many other hotels outside of London. It’s located less than a 10-minute walk from the train station, en route to the city centre, so ideal for dropping your bags off when you arrive. All guests can also access the spa facilities for two hours each day of the stay, housed in the atmospheric former vaults of the building, but be sure to book your slot in advance of arrival.

Average price for a Classic Room in December: from £212 per night

Other options

The Principal is located right at the station and has impressive lounge areas, however, the rooms can be hit-and-miss (be careful with this when paying more for Minster-view rooms). Malmaison is a solid option, also en route to the City Centre and it has a great rooftop bar overlooking the city.

You start by taking a comfy seat inside the main church, while the exhibition is projected onto the floors and walls around you. It’s incredibly relaxing and you can join at any time during the 40-minute loop. Next, there are some fun activities if you want to do them, and a small gift shop.

For a real festive treat, we recommend heading to the sanctuary of Cafe 21 York inside Fenwick, which is just across the road from St Mary’s Church.

Over Christmas, they do a festive version of their impressive afternoon tea from 2pm. Think delicious finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a range of festive patisserie (our favourite is the reindeer macaron). Treat yourself to a glass of Champagne for a real treat (it is Christmas after all).

TIME FOR DINNER

We’ve got a few recommendations.

The Rise at The Grand, York – This is a lovely restaurant inside The Grand Hotel, offering a modern British menu with a Yorkshire twist. There’s an open kitchen, cocktail bar and a terrace which has a cosy pod to keep you warm.

Legacy at The Grand, York – The ultimate treat, Legacy is the newly opened fine dining restaurant at The Grand, offering an eight-course tasting menu with an exceptional wine list. Book in advance to avoid disappointment if you want to check this out.

The Star Inn the City – Hidden away in the old Lendal Engine House, The Star Inn the City sits on the riverside and was opened in 2013 when Andrew Pern of the Michelin-starred Star Inn at Harome joined the building owners in their mission to establish a food-led celebration destination in one of York’s unique locations. The food is mid-priced (check out a sample menu here) and it’s a lovely place to spend all evening in a cosy setting. It also serves a great breakfast if you want to check it out in the morning).