Posted: 10.05.26
There’s something rather special about a city steeped in history - and few places capture it quite like York. Once a centre of Roman and Viking life, this much-loved northern city has evolved into a vibrant destination where ancient charm meets a quietly modern energy. Think winding cobbled streets lined with timber-framed buildings, independent boutiques tucked down hidden lanes, and a thriving food scene that makes it just as inviting for weekend escapes as it is for longer, unhurried stays.
From its awe-inspiring Minster to its centuries-old walls, York has long inspired storytellers and today, that same spirit lingers in its museums, cosy corners and atmospheric streets. Whether you’re drawn by the history, the culture or simply the slower rhythm of city life, here’s how we might spend 48 hours in York.
TO SEE
York Minster
Your 48 hours in York must include York Minster. One of the most breathtaking cathedrals in the world, the Minster is an architectural masterpiece. Its towering stained-glass windows and medieval Gothic design make it an unmissable landmark in the heart of the city.
The Shambles
This famously crooked medieval street looks straight out of a fairytale. With overhanging timber-framed buildings, quaint shops, and cobbled lanes, The Shambles is a magical place to wander - especially for Harry Potter fans, as it’s said to have inspired Diagon Alley.
Clifford’s Tower
The last remnant of York Castle, Clifford’s Tower sits atop a grassy mound offering stunning panoramic views over the city. Once a royal stronghold, it’s a fascinating piece of York’s history, with a dramatic past dating back to the Norman conquest.
The National Railway Museum
A must for train lovers, this museum is home to iconic locomotives, including the Mallard and a Japanese bullet train. It’s free to enter and packed with interactive exhibits, making it great for all ages.
TO DO
Walk the City Walls
York’s ancient walls are the best way to see the city from above. The 3.4-km circuit offers beautiful views of York Minster, historic gatehouses, and hidden gardens. It’s a scenic way to step back in time while stretching your legs.
A ghost tour by lantern light
York is one of the most haunted cities in England, and an evening ghost walk through its narrow alleys and shadowy courtyards is the perfect way to discover its eerie past. Spooky tales and theatrical storytelling bring the city’s dark history to life.
Explore Museum Gardens
A peaceful escape in the heart of York and a 5 minute stroll from No. 1, Museum Gardens are home to Roman ruins, medieval abbey remains, and lush botanical displays. A great spot for a picnic or a moment of quiet amid sightseeing.
Cruise down the River Ouse
See the city from the water with a scenic boat trip along the River Ouse. Whether it’s a daytime sightseeing cruise or a twilight dinner experience, it’s a unique and relaxing way to take in York’s historic charm.
TO TAKE HOME
York Ghost from The York Ghost Merchants
The charming York Ghosts are handcrafted figurines by The York Ghost Merchants, a unique shop located at No. 6 Shambles in York, inspired by the city’s rich history of ghost stories and folklore.
Harry Potter souvenirs
If you’re a Harry Potter enthusiast visiting York, The Shop That Must Not Be Named is a must-see destination. Situated at 30–31 The Shambles, this independent shop specialises in officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise.
Bath and body products from The Yorkshire Soap Company
The Yorkshire Soap Company is a beloved boutique located at 10 Blake Street. The charming store is renowned for its handcrafted products, including soaps, bath bombs, and lotions, all made with care in Yorkshire.
We host the kind of birthdays that your guests will be asking you for details about 🥂
Celebrated the night away with a very special bespoke birthday bash with @indiaamoon. Sparkles, sips and some everlasting memories ✨
If you`ve got a special occasion coming up, drop us a message and we`d love to plan with you
Check-in series #8
No. 124 Brighton - The Hideout Suite with @charlotteemilyprice
The most private of rooms in our beachfront beauty. You`ll have your own private entrance, private pantry and private hot tub. There`s a separate lounge with space for two children and a super-king bed. Check-in and enjoy your home away from home
Re-introducing some of the things that just make sense at GuestHouse
Help-yourself-pantry 🍬🍿
Well wouldn`t it be fun to go on a stay and pick out your own snacks to enjoy whilst reading a book, watching a movie or to satisfy the late night munchies 👀 So that`s what we`ve decided to bring to our hotels. Available to all of our guests, wherever you stay!
The Bar at No. 15 is back - shaken, stirred, and transformed
Behind the doors of one of Bath’s most elegant addresses, we’re blending together exceptional cocktails and charming interiors
Step off the street and come inside for a crisp pre-dinner aperitif or an indulgent nightcap before the walk home
Come and see what’s new...
Incredibly proud to share that No. 124 Brighton has been included in The @telegraph’s ‘250 Best Hotels in the UK’ guide, an expert curation of the finest accommodation in the country.
We’re in company amongst incredible hotels so we are delighted to have our coastal townhouse recognised. We hope to welcome more of you in the future, new and returning!
🌊💛
Checking-in to Room 12 today at No. 1 York? Here`s a peek of your room ☀️ 🍃
[Bootham Suite, first floor]
Our Gift Voucher sale is here - but not for long! 🧖🏻♀️🧖🏻
We`ve hand-picked a collection of GuestHouse gifts and, for the long weekend, enjoy 25% off 🤍
From restorative spa rituals and deep-soak afternoons to a rather sparkling tea at No. 1 York, they`re perfect for someone else, or yourself
Some favourites are in limited numbers, so when they`re gone, they`re gone! Save til Monday and head to our bio to browse and gift
Summer’s calling ☀️, pick up the cocktail🍹
We kept our fingers crossed last Friday that summer would be underway and it looks like it worked 😉
Escape the scorching heat this Bank Holiday weekend and join us up on The Rooftop Bar at No. 42 Margate, Friday through til Monday, for sea breeze, ice cold summer cocktails and sunsets
Moments snapped from the summer party at The Terrace Bar @pearlycowbrighton
Get yourself down there, lots of sun and spritzes ahead for the heatwave! ☀️
Check-in series #7
No. 15 Bath - Coach House Large Guest Room
If you liked the sound of staying in The Coach House in one of our previous posts, you’ve got the option for a larger room too. These rooms are family-friendly, with space for a cot in all rooms, and room for our fun mini teepees. Keep them entertained with toys and Yoto Players with story-filled cards during your stay
We’ve got a few rooms left for the Bank Holiday and Half Term. Catch the summer feeling with a family getaway
📸 @wearethelesueurs @alldadstalk, @allmumstalk
No. 124 Brighton can make your seaside wedding dreams come true! 💍🌊
Take over @pearlycowbrighton or The Courtyard for the day, or go all-out with the whole house...
📸: @charlotterebeccaphoto
Things to do in Brighton - save for inspiration 🔖
@artistsopenhouses - 16-17th and 23rd-25th May - visit local artists’ homes and studios
@brightonfestival - until 25th May - celebrate the 60th Brighton Festival with theatre, music, dance, circus, art and family events
@brightonfringe - until 31st May - comedy, cabaret, theatre and pop-up shows
UB40 - 1st June - get your tickets for the big indoor concert
London to Brighton bike ride finish - 21st June - cheer at the finish line
@royalpaviliongardens - one of the city’s best-known landmarks, a great addition to your trip
The Lanes and North Laine - Explore indie shops, vintage stores and street art
Re-introducing some of the things that just make sense at GuestHouse
Our very own...
Signature scent with @oastandrye
Bespoke @ivyandduke dog beds
Curated newspaper
Our candles and reed diffusers in `Persia` create the memory of a stay through scent (available to purchase in our hotels!). We welcome our four-legged friends with their very own dog set-up for those all important naps 💤 And, if there`s one place to find out about all the happenings in the hotels and beyond, it`s by flicking through our seasonal newspaper
Bath summer stay incoming
Need a little help choosing the room for you? Scroll for interior design inspo and we`ll see you when you get here
Supawstars at GuestHouse 🐾
Gus - @katharinee.anne
Max - @sofiacolturanigrassi
Spoon - @spoon_iggy
Moose - @moosethecockapoo_
Darla
Bonnie - @sophie.m.robinson
Kobe - @kobeshowdog
Odie - @odies_adventuress
Louis - @npanagarry
GUESTS WHO...
can’t wait for summer
conquer goals
celebrate milestones
care about the little details
Which guest are you?
Re-introducing some of the things that just make sense at GuestHouse
Coffee and tea stations with a twist ☕️🫖
Open for a surprise! Some of our rooms at No. 1 York and No. 15 Bath have a whimsical doll`s house and some of our rooms at our beachside properties, No. 42 Margate and No. 124 Brighton, have beach huts. Inside you`ll find everything you need for a morning brew, afternoon cuppa or bedtime wind down!
Just making sure that your Bank Holiday weekend plans include some drinks at The Terrace Bar, @pearlycowbrighton. The vibe? Music by @coops.png tonight and then sea-views and sips until the sun goes down 🌊
