Top Family-Friendly Hotels in Historic York

We checked thousands of reviews on and to find the best hotels for your stay
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Carolyn Osborne

Updated: 31 December 2023 · 5 min

Nestled within the historic walls of one of England's most picturesque cities, York beckons families with its unique blend of ancient charm and modern comfort. For those traveling with little ones in tow, finding the perfect basecamp becomes a part of the adventure, with family-friendly hotels in York offering experiences tailored to delight both young and old. These welcoming havens provide the perfect starting point for families eager to explore the city's enchanting streets, historic landmarks, and interactive attractions.

In selecting the ideal accommodation, parents often seek out not just comfort, but also convenience and a touch of whimsy to keep children entertained. York's top family-friendly hotels understand this, featuring spacious family rooms, dedicated play areas, and amenities designed to make a family vacation as relaxing as it is memorable. Recommendations often highlight hotels close to the York Minster, the National Railway Museum, or the Jorvik Viking Centre, ensuring every family’s interests are just a stone's throw away from their temporary home away from home.

Understanding the needs of families while traveling is key to creating lifelong vacation memories, and York's hospitality sector excels in this regard. With an array of options from luxury to budget-friendly, accommodations are keen to offer a warm Yorkshire welcome, complete with child-focused services and often, insider tips on hidden gems perfect for family outings. By choosing the right family-friendly hotel in York, a historical expedition can effortlessly transform into a modern-day family fairy tale.
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Our Top 9

(Sorted by rating & number of reviews)

1. The Grand, York Hotel
2. Grange Lodge
3. Middlethorpe Hall & Spa
4. Principal York Hotel
5. Ibis York Centre Hotel
6. Novotel York Centre
7. The Mount Royale Hotel
8. Delta Hotels By Marriott York
9. Holiday Inn York City Centre, An Ihg Hotel

Luxury Family Friendly Hotels in York

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York
Mar 12, 2026 - Mar 13, 2026

The Grand, York Hotel

9.1

Good

(8642 Reviews)

+ 284 photos
The Grand, York, isn't just a hotel; it's a historical masterpiece that warmly welcomes families. Set in the iconic former headquarters of the North Eastern Railway Company, The Grand boasts a legacy that fascinates both adults and kids. The hotel's family-friendly credentials shine through its specially designed Grand family rooms, which provide plenty of space and luxury for those traveling with children. Kids are greeted with activity packs, and on-site restaurants cater to young palates, making mealtime a breeze. With a full-service spa for parents and very close proximity to the York Minster and other central attractions, it's a premier choice for those seeking a family friendly hotel in York that doesn't compromise on sophistication or service.
Address: Station Rise
Rating: Good 9.1 (8642 Reviews)
Rooms: 207
Price: From 178$

Grange Lodge

8.1

Good

(1578 Reviews)

+ 23 photos
Imbued with character and a dash of whimsy, The Grange Hotel is an independent, family-run boutique hotel that understands the art of hospitality. Set in a classic Regency townhouse, the experience here is one of timeless charm paired with modern comforts that cater to families. Special family rooms and suites offer flexible sleeping arrangements, while the hotel’s award-winning restaurant makes dining a pleasure for all ages. Its quiet location, away from the bustle but still within easy walking distance to the city's attractions, establishes The Grange as a jewel among York's family friendly hotels.
Address: Bootham Crescent
Rating: Good 8.1 (1578 Reviews)
Rooms: 13
Price: From 56$

Affordable Family Friendly Hotels in York

Traveling to York with family doesn't have to break the bank. The city offers various affordable hotels where the experience is rich in value and warmth. These hotels provide comfortable family rooms, often with bunk beds or extra sleeping arrangements suited to those on a tighter budget. They haven't compromised on location, either; many are situated close to popular York attractions, ensuring that families can maximize their time exploring rather than traveling. This section highlights hotels that stand out for their friendly atmosphere, essential amenities, and cost-effectiveness, proving that family friendly hotels in York can be both accessible and appealing.

Middlethorpe Hall & Spa

9.2

Good

(567 Reviews)

+ 111 photos
Experience the tranquility of the English countryside at Middlethorpe Hall & Spa, a splendid historic house hotel just outside the hustle and bustle of York's city center. This hotel harmoniously blends 17th-century architecture with modern family comforts, including beautiful gardens to explore and a delightful spa for relaxation. The spacious rooms offer families the comfort of home, and the hotel can arrange child-friendly activities and menus, ensuring that even the youngest guests feel pampered. Middlethorpe Hall's relatively close proximity to York Racecourse and the Designer Outlet means there's something for every family member to enjoy, making it one of the top luxury family friendly hotels in York.
Address: Bishopthorpe Road
Rating: Good 9.2 (567 Reviews)
Rooms: 17
Price: From 173$

Principal York Hotel

7.9

Good

(5967 Reviews)

+ 244 photos
Once again The Principal York makes the list, this time for its exemplary family-oriented amenities beyond its luxurious rooms. The hotel's garden is a fantastic space for kids to explore, and the indoor heated swimming pool provides year-round entertainment, regardless of the weather. Coupled with the family-friendly gym and the beautiful surrounding areas perfect for a family stroll, The Principal York ensures that every family feels at home with its extensive range of amenities. Its elegant blend of Victorian architecture and modern facilities .
Address: Station Road
Rating: Good 7.9 (5967 Reviews)
Rooms: 155
Price: From 124$

Boutique Family Friendly Hotels in York

The charm of York's boutique hotels is undeniable, especially for families seeking a more personalized touch to their stay. These establishments pride themselves on unique decor, individualized service, and creating a home-like atmosphere that can be especially comforting for children. Often housed in beautifully restored buildings, each hotel has its own character and story to tell. This section uncovers those boutique family friendly hotels in York that provide an intimate setting, with attention to detail that makes every family feel special and well taken care of during their city break.

Ibis York Centre Hotel

7.4

Good

(8234 Reviews)

+ 121 photos
The Hotel IBIS York Centre offers a no-fuss, pleasant stay for families on the go. Its central location places guests within walking distance of the York Railway Museum and the medieval city walls. The hotel's family rooms are practical, clean, and provide all the necessities for a comfortable night's stay. Geared towards making family vacations as stress-free as possible, the Hotel IBIS serves up early breakfast options and welcomes young guests with open arms. With its combination of affordability and a prime position, it’s an excellent choice for families seeking approachable and comfortable accommodation in York.
Address: 77 The Mount
Rating: Good 7.4 (8234 Reviews)
Rooms: 91
Price: From 70$

Novotel York Centre

7.8

Good

(6431 Reviews)

+ 216 photos
At the Novotel York Centre, families can expect a smooth stay with all the essential comforts. This modern hotel presents a family-friendly environment complete with an indoor play area, a children's menu, and welcome gifts for kids upon arrival. Family rooms are thoughtfully designed, ensuring that parents and children have a space that caters to their needs, with free Wi-Fi to keep everyone connected. Positioned on the banks of the River Ouse, the Novotel is a short walk from the Jorvik Viking Centre and the city center, making it strategically located for families aiming to experience York's rich Viking history and other cultural highlights.
Address: Fishergate
Rating: Good 7.8 (6431 Reviews)
Rooms: 146
Price: From 101$

Family Friendly Hotels in York with Extra Amenities

Sometimes the standout feature of a family friendly hotel isn't just the room or the location, but the extra amenities that make a stay truly exceptional. These hotels go the extra mile by offering facilities like swimming pools, kid's clubs, and extensive outdoor grounds, enabling families to enjoy additional fun without having to step out of the hotel. This section highlights York hotels that excel in offering these additional perks, providing endless entertainment for children and peace of mind for parents wishing for a little downtime during their family holiday.

The Mount Royale Hotel

9.1

Good

(1331 Reviews)

+ 50 photos
Dive into the unique blend of traditional Yorkshire warmth and unexpected quirks at The Mount Royale Hotel, another boutique option for families exploring York. This hotel boasts a lush garden oasis, complete with an outdoor swimming pool that's a hit with children during the summer months. Each room is individually designed, offering families a distinctive experience with all the coziness of a home away from home. The Mount Royale prides itself on its personal service, ensuring each family's stay is as relaxed and enjoyable as possible, making it one of the choice family friendly hotels in York for those seeking an enchanting boutique experience.
Address: 117/119 The Mount
Rating: Good 9.1 (1331 Reviews)
Rooms: 24
Price: From 228$

Delta Hotels By Marriott York

8.3

Good

(1132 Reviews)

+ 138 photos
With its wide array of amenities, the York Marriott Hotel is a paradise for families. Overlooking the historic York Racecourse, it boasts a heated indoor pool, a family-friendly gym, and a relaxing spa. Their spacious rooms ensure families have room to spread out, along with kid-friendly dining options that make mealtime a pleasure for everyone. Its proximity to various York attractions means that adventure is never far away, yet the hotel's extensive amenities might just tempt families to spend a leisure day on-site, making it a standout among family friendly hotels in York.
Address: Tadcaster Road
Rating: Good 8.3 (1132 Reviews)
Rooms: 151
Price: From 109$

Holiday Inn York City Centre, An Ihg Hotel

8.1

Good

(3512 Reviews)

+ 160 photos
Family travels become simpler with a stay at the Holiday Inn York City Centre. This hotel shines with its commitment to providing a relaxed environment for families, with spacious rooms that feature options for additional beds for children. The friendly staff go the extra mile to ensure young guests have a memorable stay, with activity packs and a variety of kids' TV channels available. Positioned within the city walls, the Holiday Inn offers easy access to York's maze of historical streets and family-oriented attractions such as the Chocolate Story. It’s a solid choice for those who value comfort and convenience without the accompanying high price tag in York.
Address: 53 Piccadilly
Rating: Good 8.1 (3512 Reviews)
Rooms: 100
Price: From 82$