We recently enjoyed a wonderful adult-only weekend away in York. It’s somewhere we like to visit regularly; however, we like to try a new hotel every time. This time, we chose the Judges Court Hotel, a boutique hotel right in the Centre of York.

There is so much to see and do in York, from wandering the shambles, enjoying the Van Gogh experience and trying out a few of the many bars and cafes. However, it’s important also to have a comfortable base in the heart of all the activities. And the Jodge Court Hotel is located in the perfect location right in the centre of the city.

Review, Judges Court Hotel York

Judges Court, a discreet 15-bedroom townhouse nestled within a secluded courtyard, is a hidden gem just moments away from the bustling shopping hub and main attractions of York.

The Judges Court is located up an alleyway just off Coney Street in York. I have to say we did struggle to find it, but we headed to Monsoon and the alley was dead opposite. This makes it a really central location right in the heart of York.

The hotel dates back to the 18th century. Like other parts of England, local magistrates presided over civil and criminal cases in county courts, addressing issues ranging from licensing to minor theft. More severe offences were escalated to the Assize courts, where a panel of jurors and seasoned judges rendered verdicts.

These eminent judicial figures, often hailing from aristocratic backgrounds, knighted ranks, or governmental positions, convened in York biannually, during March and August, to dispense justice. From 1720 to 1806, the esteemed accommodation for these visiting dignitaries was none other than the elegant Georgian residence at the heart of the city: Judges’ Court.

The Entrance To The Judges Court

The alleyway and entrance to the hotel are all part of the charm. Lit up with fairy lights and walls adorned with art. It feels a really warm welcome from the time you step into the mystical alleyway, which takes you to a little courtyard with a quirky hotel to greet you at the end.

The Reception

The reception was tiny and quirky but also very welcoming. We were able to check in and were offered a glass of wine, grab our keys, and get tips on great bars to visit in the area. It’s good to note that on check-out day, reception is happy to keep hold of cases if you have a late train. Thus leaving you time to explore without having to take the bags along with you.

Note there are no lifts; our room was on the second floor of a steep winding staircase, so you must be able to climb the stairs easily. There is also no restaurant; you can buy drinks from the reception to take to your room. But as the hotel is so central, Bill’s and the Ivy is only a 2-minute walk for breakfast.

The Rooms At The Judges Court

We were in room 15, which is a standard room on the second floor. The rooms are quirky, with wonky walls and floors that exude charm. They are not ultra modern and groomed; quite the opposite. But this all added to the experience. I am a super fussy person but I found the room charming and the bed super comfortable.

The wardrobe was again old and rickety, but it worked effectively and didn’t look out of place in the room. Rickety almost sounds wrong, as I loved the room. It had an old-world charm you don’t get often, with original features such as traditional radiators and beams in the ceilings. There was also a TV, phone and hair dryer, all in working order. It was a lovely place to return to after a day of exploring.

Tea And Coffee in the Room

The room had a complimentary Nespresso Machine with four pods, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, water and biscuits. This was perfect for a couple of morning coffees and a lovely touch.

The Bathroom in the Judges Court

The bathroom in the Judges Court Hotel is insane, which makes this a room worth requesting. With a classic but modern design, it was spotlessly clean with complimentary Molten Brown products.

The shower was huge at the end of a tiled corridor, opening to a double-sided super-powerful power shower. I honestly can’t compare it to any shower I have ever experienced, but it’s worth booking the room for the shower alone.

Where To Get Breakfast Nearby

Come out of the Judget court courtyard, turn right and take a few steps Bills is located on your right, the Ivy a little farther on. However, there are a multitude of places to eat, and you will be spoilt for choice.

Would We Recommend The Judges Could Hotel In York?

Yes, in a heartbeat, the hotel offers something a little different. And if you are planning a trip to a historic city then quirky is exactly what you want.