York is the epitome of elegance; from its stunning architecture, to the historical shambles, quaint windy streets, beautiful shops filled with treasures, and so many spots to sit and soak up traditional English culture. If you're looking for a UK weekend break, with fun, culture, and a good glass of vino (by the river Ouse if the weather is good enough), York is the place to visit. I was fortunate enough to spend a night at
The Grand Hotel & Spa York, which, from start to finish of my stay, I felt like royalty. It is
Yorkshire's only 5 star hotel and is leading the way as far as luxury and hospitality goes. Glancing out of your window and catching sight of the incredible York Minster is always such a joy, and one of the highlights of York itself. The hotel is every bit as classy as you could imagine, with customer service at its core.
With a warm, regal welcome, the hospitable staff at the hotel were incredibly friendly and respectful, helping with luggage, and after stepping out of the car feeling utterly exhausted and deshevelled after a busy day, I still felt incredibly special. First impressions are everything and it isn't difficult to see why this hotel is 5 star, and with a quick and easy check-in, helpful staff, it's already gone onto my favourites list. If you're looking for elegance in a hotel, The Grand is your place.
The Room
Our twin room was both plush and classy. With a touch of class everywhere, from the colour schemes, and the coffee making facilities you wish you had at home, lots of choices in the mini bar, and cleanliness ranked very high. It was spotless. Home away from home is vital when you're travelling; especially if you're travelling often. You need to feel relaxed, safe and with a true element of luxury. The Grand Hotel & Spa is in the heart of York, and everything ready to explore on the doorstep. All the ameneties were provided and anything additional can be requested at the front desk and they will do their best to assist. It's the perfect place to bring your laptop, drink a vanilla latte and be inspired. Books and magazines on hand, there's always something to pass the time and the decor was a beautiful beige neutral with crimsons and wood finishes, feeling super cosy yet modern and stylish. The attention to detail was noticed from start to finish, with the range of toiletries being from the lavish
Molton Brown, including a stunning room spray for evenings to relax you; everything is perfectly in its place to ensure a comforting, cosy and warm stay.
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| Coffee & Tea making facilities (Nespresso & Taylors of Harrogate) |
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Room 403 - living space
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Details
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| Molton Brown Night Spray |
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| Molton Brown Mouthwash |
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| Coffee In The Morning |
The Restaurant
The
Rise Restaurant is ultra plush, copper and wooden tones, with modern art, comfy soft chairs and the tasting menu is absolutely incredible. You can choose as many dishes as you wish, but 6 for two people is recommended. Carefully crafted food with delicious delicate tastes, the cuisine is a deluxe special treat, it is fine dining at its best and better yet, the tasting menu offers many smaller dishes, like tapas almost, so you are able to get the best tasting experience. Nothing was over flavoured, or under flavoured, it was also incredibly aesthetically pleasing and the chicken melted like butter in your mouth, incredibly delectable and the smaller dishes still filled you like a large plate. Vegetarian, gluten free options are available; with five star care and treatment, nothing is too much trouble. After opting for a cocktail, I came to realise there are definitely no short measures, and the perfect atmosphere for a cocktail (or two)!
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| The Rise Restaurant |
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| Tomato & Avocado salad |
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| Chicken Dish |
The Spa
The spa check in is simple and easy. The keys to your locker are given at the desk, along with towels; then sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere. With a steam room, sauna and jacuzzi, you can really enjoy your me-time and with the sultry mood lighting, the ambience is incredibly zen. Purples and oranges, make for such a relaxing atmosphere, with drink facilities, and chairs around the pool, there is always somewhere to sit. Ideal for couples, lone travellers, or families, the atmosphere is relaxed and the helpful staff will be there to give you any advice you wish; they do offer treatments but booking in advance is best. The spa also has changing facilities, including hair straighteners, which is ideal for the ladies and a big bonus if you're heading straight out from there. The day spa is open to non-residents at £20 a day, which is perfect for a lazy weekend day out, and pop into the Whisky Bar afterwards for a cool beverage after your stay.
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Viewing area of pool - mood lighting
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York never disappoints, from culture, to museums, to river walks and shopping, it has so much to offer, and with The Grand Hotel & Spa York sat right in the centre, this is a perfect choice whilst staying in the city.
*I was kindly invited as a guest of the hotel, but all opinions and words are my own.