About Us

Located in the exclusive Minster Quarter

Grays Court York is a boutique hotel and historic heritage property in York's city centre that boasts over 900 years of colourful history. Once owned by the Duke of Somerset, Queen Jane Seymour's brother, and visited by King James 1st, James 2nd and the Duke of Cumberland. Sir Thomas Fairfax, Archbishop Robert Holgate and Archbishop Thomas Young have also owned and lived here in Grays Court.

Nestled in between York Minster and the City Walls, we are a one-off - a ‘country house in the city’ just waiting to be discovered. As well as seven bedrooms, we offer lunch in our Parlour and our restaurant Duel @ Grays Court is winning praise from far and near. Grays Court is also a beautiful and original venue for meetings, weddings and private events.

The City of York is the perfect destination for a short break, with historic attractions and fantastic shopping. Our house and picturesque gardens are bounded by the City Walls – medieval and steeped in history.

Our luxury bedrooms have been individually designed and furnished with a beguiling mixture of period elegance and modern comfort. The antique furniture has been sourced by us and mixed with contemporary design classics to ensure a beautiful, eclectic and relaxed environment to unwind in. All of our bathrooms have wonderful views and complimentary Clarins products for our guests to pamper themselves with.

Led by the owner, Helen, our small and experienced team will do everything to make sure your stay is memorable and that you have a personal and discreet service. The atmosphere at Grays Court is intimate and friendly. You can read what some of our guests have said and our visitor’s book is always proudly on display. Trip Advisor has recently given us a 5 Star Review.

The Parlour is open from 10am for lunch and afternoon tea. We are fully licensed and our Jacobean Long Gallery, Bow Room and walled garden are perfect places for a pre-dinner drink for both residents and day guests.

Here is a selection of our rooms open to all. If you are interested, you can read more about how Grays Court has been restored in recent years online.

Long Gallery

A Jacobean oak-panelled gallery furnished with relaxing sofas and beautiful paintings. Take tea or luncheon here, read the newspaper or just enjoy the privilege of being in such a special space.

Sterne Room

Named after Dr. Jacques Sterne, Precentor of York Minster, this is a fine Georgian Dining Room with splendid views over the garden and City walls to the rear and over the cobbled courtyard to the front of the house. Accommodates 50 theatre-style or 40 for dining.

Library

A bookish room, naturally. A cosy spot to enjoy a quiet read and a glass of wine.

Minster Room

A 16th c. panelled room available for private dining and boardroom meetings, seating up to 18 around a magnificent oak table. The mullioned windows look directly onto York Minster.

Bow Room

Our classic Parlour, open all day, housing an ever-changing art collection and overlooking the gardens and City walls.

If you are planning to visit York, boutique hotels in York, romantic hotels in York, or just a special and unique place to stay then Grays Court is a perfect choice.