Black Swan, North Yorkshire

The Black Swan is a centuries old coaching inn, turned boutique hotel, situated in the heart of Helmsley, one of North Yorkshire’s prettiest market towns.

This 45-bedroom hotel is smartly appointed, blending antiques with classic contemporary design and its varied exterior, complete with black and white timbers, plus Elizabethan and Georgian elements, portrays a rich history dating back to the 15th century.

A stay here is time for you to unwind, savouring the enjoyment of your stay from the moment you arrive. Enjoy delicious menus in the hotel’s 3 AA rosette restaurant ‘The Gallery’, created with fresh produce from the Yorkshire area. Sink into the sofa with a malt whisky in front of a roaring log fire. The hotel is also very popular with non-residential local diners.

The Black Swan is ideal for those wishing to host private dinners and celebrations and there are several private dining areas to choose from, including the intimate Tudor Lounge, in one of the oldest parts of the hotel, The Crosland Room and also The Garden Room.

These private rooms are popular for weddings too, as a venue we are pleased to hold just one wedding per day, ensuring that each bridal couple and their guests have our full attention for their special day. In 2012 the hotel won the regional heat as the North East’s ‘Best Venue’ according to the Wedding Industry Awards.

Enjoy the timeless ritual of full afternoon tea in the hotel’s award-winning tearooms, in one of the comfortable lounge areas or even outside in the walled gardens in the summer months. (The Black Swan holds the coveted “Award of Excellence” from the Tea Guild, 2011 among its many national and regional awards).

All of the hotel’s bedrooms are individually styled and contemporary in design. Many enjoy views over the picturesque market place, and others over the well-stocked walled gardens. Each has private bathrooms with Molton Brown toiletries, and most have comfortable armchairs and sofas in which to relax. There is one suite, with its own separate lounge area.

Step out of the hotel’s relaxing ambience and onto the marketplace with its collection of individual boutiques selling gifts, crafts, artwork, designer fashions, country wear and fine foods, including local meats, cheese and liquors. Perhaps take a stroll in the tranquil delights of Helmsley’s Walled Gardens and the castle ruins or the riverside walks in nearby Duncombe Park Estate? For serious walkers, the hotel is situated within the southern boundary of the North York Moors National Park.