Romantic Breaks York

A Luxury Hotel located in the exclusive Minster Quarter

Grays Court is a family-owned boutique hotel and historic heritage property in York's city centre that boasts over 900 years of colourful history. It was once owned by the Duke of Somerset, Queen Jane Seymour's brother, and visited by King James I, James II and the Duke of Cumberland. Sir Thomas Fairfax, Archbishop Robert Holgate and Archbishop Thomas Young have also owned and lived here at Grays Court.

Nestled in the shadow of York Minster and the City Walls, we are a one-off - a country house in the heart of the city - just waiting to be discovered. As well as nine (soon to be eleven) charming bedrooms, we offer lunch in our Parlour and our restaurant is winning praise from far and near. Grays Court is also a beautiful and original venue for meetings, weddings and private events.

The city of York is the perfect destination for a short break, with historic attractions and fantastic shopping. Our house and picturesque gardens are bounded by the city walls – medieval and steeped in history.

Our luxury bedrooms have been individually designed and furnished with a beguiling mixture of period elegance and modern comfort. The antique furniture has been sourced by us and mixed with contemporary design classics to ensure a beautiful, eclectic and relaxed environment to unwind in. All of our bathrooms have monsoon showers and complimentary Clarins products for our guests to pamper themselves with.

Led by the owner, Helen, our small and experienced team will do everything to make sure your stay is memorable and that you have a personal and discreet service. The atmosphere at Grays Court is unique, intimate and friendly.

We're open from 9am daily, with food being served from 11am to 9pm. We are fully licensed and our Jacobean Long Gallery, Bow Room and walled garden are perfect places for a pre-dinner drink for both residents and day guests.

We've popped a little more about our rooms below.

Long Gallery

A Jacobean oak-panelled gallery furnished with relaxing sofas. Take tea or lunch here, read the newspaper or just relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

Sterne Room

Named after Dr. Jacques Sterne, Precentor of York Minster. This is a fine Georgian dining room, boasting splendid views over the garden and city walls to the rear and over the cobbled courtyard to the front of the house. Accommodates 60 theatre-style or 36 for dining.

Library

A bookish room, naturally. A cosy spot to enjoy a quiet read and a glass of wine.

Minster Room

A 16th c. panelled room available for private dining and boardroom meetings, seating up to 18 around a magnificent oak table. The mullioned windows look directly onto York Minster.

Bow Room

Our classic restaurant, open all day, housing striking photography by David O'Neill and overlooking the gardens and city walls.