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.
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 🌊
Top to toe glow in 90 or 120 minutes ✨
We start with the back scrub to awaken the skin before moving onto a tension-releasing back, neck and shoulder massage. Then it’s down to a rejuvenating foot scrub before finishing with a radiating organic facial and scalp massage. Scroll for a virtual experience of the treatment
Walk out with your new glow and use the code TOP2TOE10 for 10% off, only in May at @fieldtripspa
Check-in series #6
No. 42 Margate - Large Guest Room with Sea View and Balcony
If the beach right at your doorstep and opening the doors to a private balcony with front row sea views sounds like your beach dream come true, you’ll want to be making yourself comfortable in of these rooms. These rooms have a separate bath and shower and a super-king size bed. This is one for those who not only want a room with a view but want to be part of it.
And if you’re travelling from London, we’re less than 1.5hrs with @se_railway!
What`s your `that makes it a staycation` moment?
Making time for a proper breakfast
Zero plans
Going all out - pamper time!
An extra long lie in
A late-night tipple
Tell us in the comments...
We`re very much ready chilling up here at The Rooftop Bar of No. 42 Margate and we know you are too 🐚🌊
Re-introducing some of the things that just make sense at GuestHouse
Station Luggage Pick-up 🧳
You didn’t pack light and that’s okay. You decided you want to head straight into town, that’s no problem.
When you book a stay with us, we offer complimentary luggage pick-up. Step off, hand over and we’ll whisk your bags back to the hotel for you. Simply share your journey’s schedule, and allow us to handle the heavy lifting 🚆
Zowie and Jack put a ring on it by the sea 💍
Huge congratulations to the happy couple and our first official ceremony at No. 42 Margate!
📸 @tomcawdronphotography
💐 @thedarlingbudsofwade
Browse the room types at No. 124 Brighton to decide where you`ll be spending the night 🔑
The Terrace Bar by @pearlycowbrighton is back for its second summer... and it`s all about the bar
Coastal cocktails, long spritzes, cold rosé and proper sundowners. First come, first served
No. 1 York through the seasons 🍃☀️🍂🌧️
Spring, summer, autumn or winter. Plan ahead staycation or spontaneous getaway to York. Whatever traveller you might be, a trip to York is always a good idea. And less than 2 hours by train from London Kings Cross!
Re-introducing some of the things that just make sense at GuestHouse
If you`re new here, let us show you round...
Starting with our Record Players. If you`re a sing to country, dance to pop, chill with jazz or kick back with rock, we`ve got record players in every room and a library with even more records to take up to your room
P.s If silence is your thing, that`s okay too 😉
Spaces for events of any and every kind
Drop our teams a message if you’re looking for a place for your next conference, team meet-up or something a little more fun
Check-in series #5
No. 124 Brighton - Large Guest Room with Sea View
Drift away to the sound of the ocean and wake up to sunrise and the sea in your super-king sized bed. Some can twin and several can accommodate a child too, so if you’re coming with a little one in tow, think big!
Behind the art
Ever stopped to look at some of the artwork at No. 124? Meet some of the artists behind the pieces at our Brighton boutique hotel
GUESTS WHO...
bring their four legged friends
make it a birthday to remember
return time and time after again
discover somewhere new
Which guest are you?
