The Churchill Hotel

This pale stone Georgian mansion was built in 1827 and has been renovated to embrace a smart, boutique style over the years. The Grade II-listed building retains much of its original character, blending period features like high ceilings and ornate fireplaces with contemporary furnishings and modern light fixtures. Muted tones and quirky art add even more character, while picturesque gardens give the property a romantic, away-from-it-all atmosphere. Interiors are grand, and public areas are outfitted with details like funky patterned tilework, leather-topped stools, a baby grand piano, and grand sweeping staircase. The Churchill has a loose connection with former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, with multiple references to him found throughout the hotel. The hotel mostly attracts couples and families, though some business travelers also stay here due to its convenient location. The vibe is relaxed, with a steady flow of guests passing through common areas during day, and a few guests gathering for drinks at the brass-topped bar in the evening. 

The Churchill Hotel is located in Bootham, an upmarket area just outside of York's ancient city walls. The property is set back from the main road, behind wrought-iron railings and manicured lawns, so it's relatively quiet and peaceful. There are a few shops and cafes along the main road, plus a supermarket and pub. Bootham Bar City Wall Entry is just down the road. Once inside the city walls, there are plenty of shops, pubs, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance, including York Minster, The Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens, and the JORVIK Viking Center. The York Art Gallery and York Theater Royal are a five-minute walk from the hotel, while The Shambles is a 10-minute walk. Coppergate Shopping Center is 15 minutes from the hotel on foot, and The University of York is a 15-minute drive away. However, there's a bus station a few minutes walk down the road for those without cars. York's main railway station is roughly a 10-minute walk away, while Leeds Bradford International Airport is about an hour's drive. 

The hotel has 41 modern guest rooms, blending period features with contemporary design elements. All rooms are clean and smartly finished, differing slightly in size and style. Larger Family Rooms can sleep up to four people, while spacious suites add impressive four-poster beds. Guests looking for something a little different might like The Bunker, a cleverly-designed, quirky room located in the hotel's basement. All rooms are decorated with rich warm colors, polished wood furnishings, Egyptian cotton bedding, gray carpets, and contemporary artwork hanging from the walls. Some rooms offer lovely garden views, while others face the parking lot. Guests should note that front-facing rooms will pick up more road noise. Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, phones, and free Wi-Fi, but there are no minibars or safes. Air-conditioning is only available in a few rooms, so most can get stuffy in the summer months. Bathrooms are clean and modern, though some are on the small side, and all include glass-enclosed showers, free toiletries, and heated towel racks. Some add rainfall showers or shower/tub combos, and suites have design-savvy extras like roll-top bathtubs. 

While features are few here, there are some particular highlights worthy of attention. Dewsnaps is a traditional British brasserie serving classic Yorkshire cuisine in an elegant setting with bright bay windows. The restaurant is extremely popular and receives excellent reviews from previous guests. A delicious a la carte breakfast is served daily for a (hefty) fee, consisting or classic dishes like eggs Benedict. Vegetarian options are also available. The wood-floored Wellington Bar serves local craft beers, Yorkshire gins, and fresh cocktails in a quiet setting, as well as range of cigars. There's a cozy lounge and library for relaxing, stylishly lined with brown leather armchairs topped with Union Jack cushions. 

The hotel falls short when it comes to leisure facilities, so don't expect a pool, spa, or fitness center. Business travelers aren't particularly well catered to either, with no computer station or business center. There are a number of rooms for private events, including a bright Georgian music room seating up to 50 guests, or an intimate private dining room for up to 24 guests. Other services include a concierge, around-the-clock room service, laundry, and on-site parking for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.