Opening December 2021
GuestHouse has turned its head to a second hotel opening in one of the UK’s favourite northern boltholes: the kingly-and-queenly city that is York. After spotting No.1’s Regency Georgian good looks and fitting with the brand’s vision for growth, it was a match-made in heaven and the idea for No.1 by GuestHouse, York, was born.
GuestHouse has breathed new life into this handsome, historic building, with interiors that are inspired by the city thanks to British designer, Martin Hulbert. The founders behind the brand, the three Guest brothers (Tristan, James and Tom), are continuing their mission to develop a new generation of hotels that will offer guests an indulgent treat while retaining the warmth and character of the traditional guest house experience.
A regal sight
Huge, dreamy sash windows, higher-than-high ceilings, a sweeping central staircase, and ivy around the door will envelop guests like love at first sight. Its grand-but-friendly face is full of charm, and inside there are plenty of details that have survived the nearly 200 years of its life, such as the staircase which leads guests up to a magical, towering glass dome in the ceiling, intricate details that GuestHouse has wholeheartedly embraced.
At the centre of creativity
No.1 is brilliantly central. What’s left of the Roman city walls is just a short walk away. York Minster (the most uttered word on sight of which is ‘wow’) is just a 10-minute walk away. In fact, everything the noble city of York has to offer can be ambled to, and that makes for a very perfect exploration situation. York is rich with history but also with modern-day creativity and a seriously good bunch of restaurants and bars to check out such as Partisan for a tasty brunch, Cave du Cochon for pizza and an array of natural wines, and Skosh, which serves special small plates.
Step inside No.1
Inside No.1 will be a lounge bar snug that’s just right for lazy coffee and papers, catching up on emails, small get-togethers over a glass of something delicious, and GuestHouse’s take on Afternoon Tea. Martin Hulbert is the mastermind behind the interiors and has packed the spaces full of whimsical wonderment. Engineering themes, beautifully crafted rugs, and upholstery inspired by the textiles industry, are all a nod to York’s historical heroism. No.1 will follow the true GuestHouse ethos where families, friends, couples and their dogs can put responsibilities to one side and just be: whether they are helping themselves to goodies in the pantry kitchens, playing soulful sounds on the Vinyl record player in their room, or gathering for board games by the fire.
The 39 bedrooms are as restful as it get with fireplaces in many, plenty of leafy views, and radiating warmth with a hint of grandeur to them all. A former Georgian drawing room and library have been restored to create two spectacularly sumptuous suites: The Bootham Rooms. Four poster beds and freestanding baths fill these lavish walls. As night falls, lanterns are lit and cosiness sets in. There’s a very at-home feeling in this happy, heavenly house full of locally sourced antiques and art mixed with curios that tribute York’s stories and literary gems.
Wild British Food
The main bar is filled with local beers and excellent wines as well as the GuestHouse signature cocktails, created from local ingredients and inspired by some of the UK’s most famous destinations. As you enjoy your tipple of choice you will be able to sit and watch the fully functioning minature steam train, inspired by the nearby Railway Museum circuling the bar area. The restaurant is where Wild British Food (that’s chef’s name for it) is served Yorkshire style. If you know the area, you’ll know that produce is golden here. All that farmland and long history of agricultural prowess make sourcing a joy for the GuestHouse chefs. And for guests, it makes tasting a joy, too. Teacakes, Eccles cakes, and other Yorkshire delights will sprinkle sugar in the pantry, which guests can merrily indulge in during their stay. GuestHouse are passionate about creating special experiences and for those wanting to book a larger space, No.1 is home to The Bootham Room, a private dining space, ideal for a larger family lunch, weekend get together with a dozen friends, or a celebratory event.
Whimsical Wellness
Down in the cellar (which was an air shelter in World War II), there’s a treatment room focused spa. It will be a cocooning world of bespoke therapies by talented experts using organic products. There’s even a treatment room for two.
To Brighton and beyond
2023 will see the launch of GuestHouse in Brighton and the GuestHouse group will continue to evolve to encompass shared values and commitments to its guests.
