To quote Ralph Waldo Emerson, “It’s a luxury to be understood”. Fortunately, at The Grand York, we can assure you that you will be. From original Edwardian architecture to a Nordic dry sauna, The Grand York offers guests a taste of every aspect of luxury. Take the back seat for once, and let your experience unwind for you.

The Grand York’s centrality to the city centre is a winning draw of the property. And its classic red-brick exterior is a loved and familiar city sight. In a traditional top hat and suit, the hotel porter courteously welcomes guests, while directing those leaving the building smilingly towards York’s attractions.

The Grand Hotel’s story began in 1906 when the property was erected as a ‘Palace of Business for the North Eastern Railway Company’. It was not until 2010 that the building opened its doors as The Grand York – welcoming guests following its renovation to a five-star hotel. The Grand York stands witness to over a century of York’s history, labelling it as one of the most notable inhabited buildings across the city.

When booking a trip to The Grand York, the most challenging part of your stay comes first. The hotel has a variety of rooms and suites to suit all tastes and priorities. An Executive Room with a walk-in shower and freestanding bathtub? The Grand Heritage Suite with a separate lounge complete with plush armchairs? Or, perhaps The Penthouse Suite, because panoramic views of York sound a luxury worth your indulgence.

The Penthouse Suite prioritises space, featuring a super king-sized bed and a double walk-in shower. The suite is ideal for relaxing after a busy day of sightseeing. Guests can soak in a roll-top freestanding bathtub while overlooking the city below. Alternatively, with 24-hour room service, choose to dine in at the privacy of your own dining table. And, with a complimentary movie, underfloor heating, and late checkout, guests can truly get comfy settling in for the night.

Of course, for those looking for even further luxuries, The Grand York has an exclusive selection of add-on packages. Opt for ‘A Touch of Romance’, with decorative rose petals and a bottle of prosecco to toast your stay. Alternatively, skip the prosecco for ‘A Champagne Experience’ – with a bottle served in an ice bucket, complete with chocolate-dipped strawberries. Although, if it’s delicious food on your mind, there are plenty of options within The Grand York.

The Rise Restaurant Terrace & Bar is guests’ answer to luxury dining from breakfast until evening. Breakfast includes a selection of classic dishes like eggs benedict or scotch butter pancakes, drizzled generously with Canadian maple syrup. However, The Rise’s all-day menu promotes a wide range of worldwide and Yorkshire favourites.

For locally sourced meat, sample the Yorkshire Venison. The venison comes with a deliciously creative mix of chestnut puree, blackberry gel, pickled blackberries, and purple sprouting – a definite indulgence for the tastebuds. For vegetarians, the Wild Mushroom Risotto is an excellent dish to sample seasonally sourced produce. The combination of king oyster mushrooms and cordyceps with aged parmesan cheese is a culinary jackpot.

To finish your dining experience, the Yorkshire Cheeseboard offers a winning selection of Harrogate Blue, Yorkshire Extra Mature Cheddar, and Yellison’s Goat’s Cheese. Although, for the sweet-toothed, the Coffee and Hazel Praline Bar or Coconut Rice Pudding may be the most tempting options.

After dining, you can choose to stretch out your evening with a cocktail or two at The Rise. Alternatively, combine luxury and history at The Grand York’s 1906 Bar. The 1906 Bar prides itself on a thorough selection of regional and international beverages of the highest calibre. In particular, the bar hosts an extensive whiskey collection. From classics such as Glenmorangie or Glenfiddich to more unique whiskies like the Swedish Mackmyra, guests can explore the menu with the aid of a knowledgeable bartender onside.

With a late checkout and a whole morning to enjoy, the luxuries don’t have to stop the next day. Guest have full complimentary access to The Grand York’s spa– leaving a whole lot more to look forward to after an evening of fine dining. The property’s fully equipped gym awaits with free weights and state-of-the-art machines for those with the mantra of ‘exercise is the best therapy’.

Or, for those who prefer their therapy in the form of a ‘Nordic dry sauna’ or ‘aromatic steam room’, the spa facilities are second to none. Aside from the sauna and steam room, guests can enjoy a 14-metre swimming pool and a spa whirlpool. Relax with friends, family, partner, or solo – the spa offers a blissful space to unwind and alleviate any lingering tensions.

To target any remaining stubborn tension, guests can choose to treat themselves to a little extra me-time. Whether you choose a hot stone or deep tissues massage, a prescriptive facial, or a classic manicure, you can guarantee to leave more relaxed than you came in.

The understanding The Grand Hotel offers is one of mutuality and a lingering heritage of luxury. And, when exploring York, guests can place their experience in safe and trusted hands. The Grand Hotel’s oozes class and breathes luxury – its stellar reputation is easily understood.