David Bootle indulges in the timeless luxury of Middletons Hotel, as he experiences York at its finest. A part of the renowned Daniel Thwaites group, the hotel has undergone a tasteful refurbishment that epitomises the essence of quality and elegance…
During our memorable stay, my partner and I, accompanied by my son, had the privilege of experiencing the hotel’s regal charm and subtle renovation – thoughtfully rejuvenated to reflect the hotel’s rich Georgian heritage.
We were also able to sample the Thwaites group’s delectable dining from the five star Judge’s Lodgings, as we dined in the quirky and atmospheric Cellar Bar. A wonderful underground brick building, five minutes walk away from Middletons.
The boutique Middletons Hotel, with 56 sumptuous bedrooms spread across five listed buildings, complete with a picturesque central courtyard, has redefined its identity while preserving the heritage of the Grade II* listed Lady Anne building.
The recent refurbishment of Middletons Hotel, located in the very centre of the beautiful city of York, is a testament to the commitment of the Daniel Thwaites group to excellence.
18 unique bedrooms, bathrooms, and public spaces have been revitalised, and enhancements such as air conditioning, updated windows, and improved insulation have breathed new life into the property.
The transformation of Middletons represents a harmonious blend of traditional British charm with contemporary sensibility. The interior design, masterfully executed by Rachel Wootton, captures the essence of the building’s heritage, preserving its architectural and historical significance.
The Heritage Suite and House Suite rooms have been tastefully modernised to offer a luxurious experience. The Cosy Rooms, on the other hand, draw inspiration from the adjacent courtyard garden, incorporating whimsical wildlife inspired decor. Intricate details inspired by medicinal plants also pay homage to the house’s rich history.
Middletons Hotel: Hotel of The Year
The Lady Anne building, the latest gem to be unveiled in Middletons’ extensive renovation programme, has been transformed with sensitivity and care by the skilled hands of the building contractor, Murray and Willis. Their previous work on the Cromwell House, which was originally an old sawmill, as well as the Sir Joseph Terry Alms Cottages and The Sawmill restaurant, bar, and lounge areas, attests to their expertise. Local tradespersons from York were also enlisted for painting, decorating, and electrical work, further strengthening the ties between Middletons and the vibrant local community.
Middletons Hotel recently received the prestigious ‘Large Hotel of the Year’ award at the York Tourism Awards 2023. A testament to the hotel’s successful renovation efforts.
We immerse ourselves in the beauty and charm of York during our stay at Middletons, benefiting from the hotel’s convenient location within the city walls. The iconic York Minster, reflecting the city’s rich history, and the 800-year-old Clifford’s Tower are just a stone’s throw away. In addition to its proximity to the city’s vibrant centre, Middletons Hotel also offers easy access to York Racecourse, making it the perfect choice for visitors seeking to experience the city’s rich heritage and cultural attractions.
Greenery at Middletons Hotel
As you enter down into a neat kittled car park at the rear of the property you get a sense of a subtle blend of urban convenience with green spaces. The recent refurbishment reflects a commitment to environmental conservation with the addition of bird boxes in heritage colours outside Lady Anne House. This thoughtful touch not only enhances the hotel’s garden but also encourages local wildlife to call the garden their home.
Our stay at Middletons Hotel was nothing short of exceptional. The decor in our room exuded decadence and regal charm. From the moment we step inside, we are within the atmosphere of opulence. The Heritage Suite and House Suite were a true embodiment of contemporary luxury, with every detail carefully curated to offer a one-of-a-kind experience. The Cosy Rooms, adorned with wildlife inspired decor, added a touch of whimsy to our stay, while the nods to medicinal plant designs paid homage to the hotel’s heritage.
Dinner at Cellar Bar
Another highlight of our stay was the exquisite dining experience at the Cellar Bar. The food was fresh but also exquisitely prepared and wonderfully flavoursome. We took the five minute walk through the bustling city centre to Judge’s Lodgings, passing the independent shops, cafes and bars and soaking in the atmosphere of this great city.
We were then helpfully guided down to the Cellar Bar, down steps into a coved brick cellar space underneath the building. Once sat down, the staff were hugely attentive and knowledgeable and guided us through the menu.
Our vegetarian son was particularly happy with the range of options available, which catered to a variety of tastes. The halloumi fries were crisp and succulent, while his vegetable burberry was juicy and tasty.
My partner and I opt for the same meals. The scallops were rich in flavour with a wonderful garnishing of crispy seaweed and caviar. A real taste sensation setting their whole tone. The steaks that followed were probably some of the best we’ve ever had over our four plus decades. Wonderfully seasoned and perfectly cooked to our liking with truly great cuts of meat. Accompanied by a lovely tasty mushroom, tomato and chunky fries addition.
I plumped for a dessert too – the sticky toffee pudding being one of the finest I’ve ever had. My partner expressed that her passion fruit and vanilla cheesecake dessert was perfect – rich in flavour but not too heavy. Topping it off was a lovely bottle of Gulara Shiraz, Australia.
Concluding remarks
Middletons Hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience that transcends expectations and embodies the timeless allure of York. Our stay was a symphony of history, luxury, and gastronomic delight, leaving us with cherished memories that will linger long after our departure.
Middletons Hotel is a treasure trove in the heart of York, where the past meets the present in an enchanting embrace, and we can’t wait to return for another unforgettable visit.
