Judge's Lodging

This historic Georgian building offers a unique blend of traditional charm and urban convenience, making it a memorable destination for visitors. Its signature feature is its prime central location, placing guests within easy reach of major attractions and the city's vibrant heart. The hotel is particularly well-suited for sightseers and couples seeking a romantic getaway, as well as dog owners due to its pet-friendly approach. Guests consistently highlight the attentive staff, comfortable accommodations, and delicious food as key aspects of their stay. To enhance your experience, consider requesting a room away from the main street or bar areas if you prefer a quieter environment, and be aware of the off-site parking arrangements.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts a popular cellar bar and a spacious garden area at the front, featuring ample tables and chairs, some with tabletop heaters, creating a lively atmosphere for drinks and snacks. There is also a modern sitting area to the rear of the property. While there is no dedicated fitness center or pool, guests appreciate the convenience of various in-room amenities. These often include a coffee machine, a selection of teas, bathrobes, an iron and ironing board, and a hairdryer. Some rooms also provide thoughtful touches like fresh milk delivered daily and White Company toiletries.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, though some minor issues like dust or stained linens have been noted. Room sizes vary, with many described as spacious and well-equipped, while others are considered smaller but adequate. The comfortable beds and high-quality linens contribute to a restful sleep. Bathrooms are often highlighted for their size, featuring large freestanding baths and excellent showers with good water pressure and plenty of hot water. Noise levels can be mixed; while some rooms, particularly those in courtyard or annex areas, are reported as quiet, others facing the busy street or near bar areas experience street noise, bar noise, or sounds from deliveries and bin collections, especially late at night or early in the morning.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a variety of dining options, with the breakfast consistently receiving high praise for its quality and selection. Guests enjoy a good choice of both cooked breakfast items, often served hot and fresh, and a continental buffet including cereals, fruit, and pastries. While the cooked options are generally excellent, some guests have noted that the buffet selection can be limited or not consistently restocked, and coffee quality can be inconsistent. The cellar bar and formal dining room serve lunch and dinner, with many reviews commending the food quality and specific dishes like the roast beef and Sunday lunch. However, some guests have expressed disappointment with portion sizes or the quality of certain items like sandwiches or seafood platters, and service can occasionally be slow, particularly during busy periods.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of major attractions such as York Minster, The Shambles, and various shops and restaurants. It is also conveniently located approximately a ten-minute walk from the train station, making it easily accessible for those arriving by rail. While the central position offers great convenience, it also means the surrounding area can be lively and noisy, especially at night. Parking is not available on-site; guests are directed to a public car park several minutes away, which can be expensive and requires carrying luggage through pedestrian-only streets during certain hours.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight the warm welcome, efficient check-in process, and willingness of staff to assist with luggage, provide recommendations, and accommodate requests. Housekeeping is often commended for maintaining spotlessly clean rooms. However, some reviews mention instances of slow service, particularly in the bar or dining areas, and a few guests have reported less positive interactions, citing perceived rudeness or a lack of vigilance during busy times. Overall, the majority of guests experience a high level of professional and welcoming service.

Additional Information
The hotel is housed in a historic building with significant character, featuring unique architecture and quirky elements, including steep and narrow staircases. Guests should be aware that there is no elevator, which can be a consideration for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. The hotel operates a pet-friendly policy, welcoming dogs, which is appreciated by many travelers. Some guests have reported issues with specific room types, such as "Terrace" rooms being noisy due to proximity to bar areas or deliveries, and "Courtyard" rooms occasionally experiencing noise from service areas. There have also been isolated concerns regarding the hotel's cancellation policy during unforeseen circumstances, with some guests finding it inflexible.