The Milner Hotel – A fantastic choice if you’re looking for a dog friendly hotel in York
If you’ve ever arrived in York by train, chances are you’ve admired the stunning building right next to the station, that’s The Milner Hotel! I’ve walked past it countless times, often oooh-ing and aaah-ing at its gorgeous architecture. Now I’ve finally stayed there, with my husband and doggies, and I can happily say it’s every bit as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.
The hotel is named in honour of a brave railway worker, who tragically lost his life while trying to rescue others during a bombing raid at the station in World War II. It’s a poignant touch, and fittingly, the hotel is hardly a stone’s throw from the station’s front entrance.
What I loved about it – Is it too weird to say the staircase? I mean, as well as being dog friendly, the whole hotel is stunning, the staff are wonderful and the location could hardly be better, but that staircase is a thing of beauty!
Location – Less than 30 seconds walk from the front entrance of York Train Station
Suitable for – Couples, Families, Girl’s Weekend, Dog Stays
That’s what makes this stunning hotel perfect for a stress-free weekend getaway with your furry companion. The moment you step through the doors, there’s a warm welcome for humans and hounds, The Milner manages to blend dog-friendly hospitality with maximum glamour. It's a beautifully styled, sophisticated spot to base yourself while exploring the historic city of York.
We dropped our bags in the gorgeous Hudson Suite, which has a striking view out over the hotel gardens to the centre of York (you can just about see the tops of the Minster spires) & those gardens are perfect for a stroll with your dog. The thoughtful canine-friendly touches are everywhere, dog beds, Milner Hotel dog bowls and even a treat or two.
The suite also has a spacious lounge area, and I particularly loved the bathroom, complete with a rainfall shower and a roll-top bath, exactly what you dream about soaking in after a day of sightseeing.
Once we’d had a good look around the wonderful suite, we popped the dogs on their leads and took the 10-minute walk into York centre. Honestly, you’ll find so many dog-friendly pubs, bars and restaurants in the centre, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Lots of the older pubs have hidden beer gardens down cobbled side streets where you can sit and enjoy the sunshine with your lucky pooch.
Something we didn't know - dogs aren't allowed on the walls. The signs telling you this are pretty small, and we missed them in the crowd as we headed up the steps. Luckily there were plenty of locals on hand to tell us (!) but once you're up there, if it's busy you kind of have to keep going until the next set of steps to get down. I hope this spares you the indignity!
When you’ve had your fill of the architecture, street performers, tourists and general hustle and bustle of York’s historical streets, head back to the hotel for dinner. Dogs are welcome in most areas, with the exception of the main restaurant ‘Peachey Bar & Grill’ and the health club. But no worries, if you’re dining with your four-legged friends, the signature menu is available in the elegant Garden Room.
The food is exquisite!
I was especially impressed with the vegan options – my first ever vegan burrata, wow! The BBQ cauliflower and sweet potato fries were next-level delicious. I could not eat another morsel, but the desserts that were making their way to other tables looked equally fabulous.
The dog-friendly Garden Room is a truly beautiful space that still showcases much of the original Victorian architecture. The Milner Hotel is a Grade II listed building, and it’s easy to see why, think high ceilings, ornate mouldings, and a sweeping staircase that will everyone stops to admire. (Did I mention I loved the staircase?!!)
Enjoy a drink at the The Swollen Gambler bar - great for cocktails - then take the dogs out for a last evening walk in the gardens (on the lead of course) and enjoy the beautifully lit walkways and the fountain. Magical.
Breakfast the next morning involves locally sourced treats that set you up perfectly for a riverside walk or a wander (sans dogs of course!) along the city walls. If you’ve got the energy, The Milner has a pool and gym too, or you can just mosey along the banks of the nearby River Ouse before heading home.
The Milner Hotel combines heritage and luxury with dog-friendly perks in the heart of one of the UK’s most beautiful cities. It’s a haven for travellers with or without their dogs, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a base from which to enjoy York.
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Thanks,
Sally
