Last updated on June 8, 2023
York is one of our favourite UK cities, an enchanting living museum that evokes its medieval history at every turn. An ideal way to immerse yourself in the city’s life is to stay at a York Airbnb. From cosy listed buildings to modern apartments in converted warehouses, there are options for all tastes and budgets.
Here’s our pick of the best Airbnbs in York, split into two sections of entire places and private rooms. Also see our guide to the best things to do in York and the most stylish hotels in York. Plus our guide to the best tips for finding your perfect Airbnb stay.
Airbnb York: 12 Best Airbnbs in York
Entire homes
Characterful period house
This charming, historic home, resplendent with ancient, exposed timberwork throughout, is part of a grade 2* listed building that dates back to the 16th century. The whole place is immaculately designed with contemporary touches complementing vintage furnishings and the building itself.
The two-bedroom home is in the city centre, within walking distance of the major sights, including the Minster, Betty’s Tea Room and many museums and galleries. And there’s a private courtyard too.
What the guests say: “Beautiful property and great host. The house is lovely, really thoughtfully decorated, very well equipped. We had an amazing stay. It’s a fantastic location right in the centre of town, the occasional need for the earplugs is well worth it! What a treat waking up to the Minster bells. Thank you for a wonderful stay!”
Historic Townhouse in the Shadow of York Minster
Stay right next to one of the York’s most impressive sights, the York Minster, northern Europe’s second largest gothic cathedral. Bright, minimalist décor complements the historic three-storey home, which can house up to 8 guests in four bedrooms.
There’s an eclectic mix of antiques alongside restored original features and stylish contemporary touches. And when the weather’s warm, you also have a private patio to enjoy.
What the guests say: “The most memorable of all Airbnbs we’ve stayed at. Perfect location (right next to York Minster); yet with easily accessible private parking. Very easy to communicate with the owner. Lovely welcome pack (including Prosecco!) We were a group of 8; plenty of room for both sleeping, eating and relaxing.
“Having an intelligent keypad entry system meant we could each come and go as we pleased. Dog friendly – our Labrador, Maisie, was very relaxed there. Beautifully clean throughout with modern bathroom facilities tastefully integrated so as not to spoil the charm of this historic home. Will definitely stay again “
Online listing: Historic Townhouse in the Shadow of York Minster
Price: From £268 per night
Sleeps: 8 people (five beds)
Whistler House
This characterful stone cottage will make all your historic York dreams come true. Dating back to the 1700s, the cottage is partially constructed from the city walls and is perfectly located right in the city centre – you couldn’t want for a better location. The interiors are striking with bold coloured walls, refined furnishings and touches of class throughout.
What the guests say: “Anna’s place is genuinely wonderful. Fantastic location right in the centre of York, literally a couple of minutes walk from the Minster, but it also feels private and secure. The house itself is really modern, with a beautiful big kitchen space and cosy living room. The decor is tasteful and stylish throughout the house.
“All three bedrooms were nice and spacious, and they all had a ‘master bedroom’ feel which is rare to find. Anna was very accommodating to our needs, and super friendly whenever I needed to contact her. I would definitely stay here again, and fully recommend it to anybody looking for a lovely, luxurious stay in York.”
Artist-designed home
Get some coveted free city centre parking at this unique home in a restored period townhouse. The one-bedroom apartment features original artwork and a blend of French and designer furniture that combines to create a stylish and inviting space.
It’s in York’s cultural quarter and has easy access to the major sights including the York Art Gallery, Theatre Royal and plenty of pubs, bars, shops and restaurants.
What the guests say: “Our Stay at Anita’s was lovely. Beautiful home with such character and design throughout. very clean and great shower. Hosts were easy to contact and gave loads of information about the local area, places to explore and eat. They even left a map for us.
“Great location and everything is easy to reach, lovely park nearby to walk through into the centre was a bonus as I saw lots of squirrels! The place is warm with all the amenities you need, including coffee maker. They left some lovely essentials for breakfast and that was much appreciated. Would happily stay again.”
Modern romantic flat
This newly refurbished one-bedroom flat, with a striking tropical blue colour scheme, is in one of York’s most popular neighbourhoods. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the train station and less than a minute to Bishopthorpe Road (Bishy Road), an area famous for its independent shops, cafes and restaurants.
The plush velvet sofa can be converted into an extra double bed. The full kitchen and bathroom, complete with a freestanding tub, are brand new.
What the guests say: “What a fabulous place to stay when visiting York! Ideal location and brilliant amenities for the price. Would definitely stay again.”
The Station
This spacious two-bedroom apartment, The Station, is just a five-minute walk from York train station and the city centre, and just a minute away from the popular railway museum. With bright, modern décor and modern amenities, it has all you need for a comfy, stylish stay in the city.
What the guests say: “Lovely location. We had a three-year-old, so ended up going to the railway museum twice which was next door! Its a little walk into York but we didn’t mind as York is so lovely! The accommodation was wonderful nice and clean and spacious, we will defo be back as my three-year-old wont stop talking about the railway museum 🙂”
Heart of York garden home
Stay in the heart of York at St Denys Road, right next to Fossgate and Walmgate, which are filled with indy shops and restaurants. The stylishly refurbished flat has a cosy-making wood-burning stove, and for warmer days, there’s a pretty, decked garden. Original modern art, Yorkshire design and antiques add interesting design touches throughout. Also comes with a free parking space.
What the guests say: “This is a lovely home to stay in close to the city centre with a supermarket round the corner for that pint of milk, some lovely cafes and restaurants within 5 minutes and great recommendations from the host. If you don’t want a walk or a taxi from the station there is a bus which stops outside or parking is included on the street.
“The house was super clean and was well furnished to a high standard and felt very spacious for 4 of us. The outside space was a real treat on sunny days to sit in to eat. everything has been thought of to make you have a comfortable, unique stay.”
I should Cocoa York
Here’s a fun opportunity to stay in an old cocoa bean warehouse – just think of all the chocolate that came out of that! The smart river-view studio apartment includes a pull-down bed, meaning you have some extra space during the daytime.
There’s special attention to detail, including a map of York’s indy business, bamboo toilet paper, Fairtrade products and a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
What the guests say: “A high-end Airbnb – loverly clean modern studio flat with easy parking, well equipped kitchen and smart TV. Well situated in town – we didn’t need to use the car all weekend. Emma and Mark were great hosts, making sure everything was ok. Fresh brownies and proper coffee were a great touch. Highly recommended!”
Central York Townhouse
Enjoy the benefits of your own private cinema and games room at this stylish townhouse just off ‘Bishy Road’. It’s a family-friendly option with three bedrooms, a large living-dining area, big bathroom and sunny courtyard.
You’re even greeted with homemade cake upon arrival! And guests get a House of York Craft Savvy Card, which gives 25% off the full price of all food and drink at over 40 York independent bars, cafes and restaurants.
What the guests say: “We stayed here for Christmas and it was perfect! Such a lovely cosy place, I’d not hesitate in recommending. Such friendly hosts and the house was spotless with everything we needed.
“Great location too – so close to the centre of York and the local shops are lovely. We were staying with 2 young children and they were catered for excellently with a cot, high chair and crockery. Can’t wait to stay again!”
Lovely Victorian House
Just a five-minute walk from the city walls, this house would be ideal for families or groups. It’s a cosy home-away-from-home on a quiet street and with all you need for a comfy stay. Highlights include the sunny south-facing garden, fully-equipped kitchen and free parking.
What the guests say: “Clean, beautifully decorated and great location. Wish we could have stayed more than one night. The kitchen and lounge in particular are lovely, really nice touches with the coffee/tea amenities plus the cereal selection laid out for us on arrival! Lovely place close enough to the York city centre but far enough away that’s its peaceful and quiet. Thank you!!!”
112 Micklegate
This quirky one-bedroom apartment on one of York’s most famous roads has plenty of historic charm including exposed timber beams. There’s a second apartment in the same building if you’re coming with a group. And it’s just above Partisan, one of the city’s most popular cafes.
What the guests say: “This apartment is lovely! Very quirky and unique, you feel truly immersed in the history of York! The location is perfect, very close to the city walls and the city centre, a perfect base to explore this beautiful city.
“There is reasonably priced parking only about 5 mins away. The communication from our hosts was brilliant and we were made to feel very welcome. Would definitely recommend. Thank you!!”
Private Rooms in York
Stylish City Loft
Situated on the famous Bishopthorpe Road (Bishy Road), voted the UKs best High Street, this bright and spacious double room is perfectly located for exploring this hip area on the fringe of York city. It’s a 15-20 minute walk from the city centre or a two-minute taxi ride. The room is on the third floor of a York townhouse and comes with its own ensuite, a panoramic city view and tea and coffee making facilities. There’s also a cosy living room on the ground floor for private use by guests.
What the guests say: “Julia’s place is brilliant and perfect for a cold winter night! They were lovely hosts, had great easy communication with Julia and they were happy for us to come and go as we pleased. The room is comfortable, well presented and felt very private. Great location too and a beautiful big house. Would highly recommend and great value for money. Great touch with a welcome sign as we arrived too!”
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All photos courtesy of Airbnb.