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Few cities in the world can rival York for history and character. The picturesque riverside city, encircled by ancient walls, has a fascinating story that goes back 2,000 years. Every street and ginnel (Yorkshire dialect for alleyway) seems to reveal another historic site or lovely view. With all this charm it's no surprise that the city has developed an exciting boutique hotel scene. From funky, family-run hotels near bustling Walmgate, worth visiting for its independent bars and restaurants, to smaller, stylish townhouses steeped in Victorian elegance, you’ll find something out of the ordinary from a wide choice of extraordinary establishments.
Tucked between the Minster and the medieval city walls, Grays Court has arguably York's smartest address. With Norman origins (the house was built for the Archbishop of York's first Treasurer), it's also steeped in history: James I and William Wilberforce are among the many notable historic figures to have dined here. For an 11-bedroom hotel, there are a disproportionate number of areas to relax in. As well as two vast galleries, comfortable with sofas and soft lights, there's a well-stocked library, a cobbled courtyard plus large mature garden with wooden pavilion and steps straight onto the walls. All bedrooms share the same quiet elegance – the best overlook the Minster or garden.Read expert reviewFrom£253
A bright, colourful, 11-room hotel found in one of York’s hippest areas, Walmgate. Expect stylish rooms, a mix of retro and contemporary furniture and a very friendly atmosphere inside this old vicarage. There’s an inviting sitting-room with quality magazines, a wall of books and a wood-burning stove; for warmer days, a courtyard garden. Bring a bottle of wine, and glasses will appear, plus hot drinks and biscuits are free all day. Little blackboards are updated with suggestions of what to do, local gigs and recommended craft beer pubs. Parisi only serves breakfast, but it is excellent and invites lingering. Read expert reviewFrom£413
This is classic Hotel du Vin with a period building (in this case, an orphanage) given a dark and clubby makeover. It's comfortable without being fussy and smart without feeling too formal. There's a cosy snug and sofas tucked away in the bar. The style throughout the rooms is masculine and handsome, with solid oak furniture, wooden sleigh beds, charcoal carpets, leather chairs and velvet armchairs. Bathrooms are generous with big showers, chunky basins and many have freestanding baths. Food in the brasserie-style dining-room is classic French (think sole meunière and duck cassoulet) and there is a rich wine list too. Read expert reviewFrom£84
A homely Victorian townhouse bursting with original Georgian and Edwardian antique furniture. This charming hotel, just a short stroll away from the city centre, is perfect for weekenders looking to explore the many wonderful sights York has to offer. The 21 bedrooms are spread across two buildings and each is individually styled – if you want something a little different, it's worth splashing out for the Loft Suite, which has its very own sauna in the bathroom. The Park is the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant where dinner is a veritable feast of nine courses.Read expert reviewFrom£71
This impressive Georgian townhouse offers inn-style hospitality and a range of rooms, from compact and contemporary to grand and stylish. The hotel sits between the river and the Minster – which are both within two to three minutes' walk. Previously the residence of visiting Assize Court judges, it became a hotel in the late 1970s. The current owners, Thwaites Breweries, have given it a new, smart feel (expect stripped wooden floors, Farrow and Ball colours and bold wallpapers) while highlighting original features such as window seats and a magnificent curving Georgian oak staircase. Simple pub food, plus drinks, can be eaten outdoors on a hidden terrace during warmer days.Read expert reviewFrom£127
The Lamb & Lion is easy to miss as it is, literally, in the shadow of Bootham Bar, one of the city’s medieval gates. Two neighbouring Georgian buildings have been joined together and inside it is a pleasing warren of narrow passageways and steep staircases. This pub with rooms has a period feel and choice of good pub food or smarter modern British. There’s a straightforward bar, with cask ales and cosy snug, plus a surprisingly large beer garden with Minster views. The 12 rooms continue the simple, authentic feel of the downstairs areas. They're sparingly furnished with cast-iron or dark-wood beds and a few vintage pieces such as an old desk or leather armchair.Read expert reviewFrom£98
Sophia Dalton 
