Created by a band of brothers – Tristan, James and Tom – with a plan to design home-from-home, wonder-filled stays in cities, GuestHouse is a hot hotel brand for a reason. The whimsical and playful details in each uniquely sourced hotel, decadent details, fine food and super amiable staff all add to the enviable hospitality mix. With 39 decadent bedrooms and three sensational suites, a stay in this York hotel is like opening a treasure chest – mesmerising.
Set in a beautiful Grade II-listed Regency townhouse in leafy, upmarket Bootham, the fun begins once inside as the design wizardry commences. Spy a grand winding staircase with violin-clad walls; the sunny-gold, saffron-frenzied Marmalade Lounge and its bright art, plump sofas and key embellished lounge tables (try the Yorkshire Parkin cocktail, you won’t regret it); and the handcrafted dolls house at the reception that houses the room keys.
Meanwhile, in the rooms – book either the Bootham or Clifton suite – there are mighty four-posters with Sealy mattresses and 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton linen, lovely lofty windows draped with fine sash curtains, and the symbolic White Rose of York is beautifully weaved into the wall decor. However, there are some other special elements to bring out your inner child: the signature in-room doll houses that double as coffee cupboards, Crossley record players, and access to the much-loved communal treat pantry – a highlight for all.
The afternoon tea served in the lounge gets top marks: try the warm and comforting scones with gooey jam and thick cream alongside a pot of tea from the extensive menu. The basement spa is, quite simply, excellent. The mellow, lavender-scented treatment rooms exude peace — as do the expert masseurs and their healing hands — take some Pinks Boutiques peppermint oil home. After a sound night, wake up to a formidable breakfast of pastries and hot plates — and yes, breakfast in bed is nothing short of wonderful too.
Address: No.1 by GuestHouse, 1 Clifton, York YO30 6AA
