The Principal York – York
A cool £15m was spent on restoring one of Britain’s greatest Victorian railway stations to its former glory and we have Principal hotels to thank for the thoughtful update that this landmark building deserves. Once a stopover for Queen Victoria en route to Balmoral, The Principal York perfectly blends the grandeur of late-Victorian architecture with the comforts of modern travel – how many hotels can be accessed straight from the train platform? You couldn’t be better placed to explore historic York, with the impressive Minster and ancient city walls just a short stroll away. Retreating from the city is just as easy: at the heart of the hotel are two large, light-filled open spaces – the lobby lounge, which contains the hotel’s dramatic staircase, and The Garden Room beyond, which looks out over the hotel’s manicured gardens. Needless to say, this fine addition to the Principal portfolio aspires to be your final destination. Doubles from £139.
tip
Name to Know: Yorkshire lass and meeting and events manager Denise Walker. A visit to the hotel isn’t complete without a smile or chat with her.
See: The Minster remains top of the list, in view of the fact this staggering beauty was hand-built stone by stone, over 800 years ago.
Eat: Championing Yorkshire produce is a big focus at The Refectory Kitchen & Terrace – the short rib mac ‘n’ cheese features Swaledale Cheddar, while the mince for the cottage pie is braised in York Brewery ale (who are just a stone’s throw from the hotel).
Buy: Slingsby Yorkshire Rhubarb Gin from The Corner Shop at The Principal York, £39.
Want to find out more? Visit the hotel's website.
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