We decided to book a pre-Christmas break to York, mostly for the Christmas markets but also because Sam loves Malmaison hotels and fancied trying the one in York. We took the train down and were relieved to realise that the hotel was only a short 5 minute walk from York Station.
A pretty imposing building, and somewhat more modern than their other hotels, it sits in an enviable location right opposite the park and just a short walk to York Minster, (which was the other reason we went as we love historic sites).
The reception area was really lovely, with a huge Christmas tree and lots of staff on hand. Our check-in was fast, friendly and efficient, we were given a drinks voucher each as our room couldn’t be cleaned every day due to current restrictions – we both felt this was over and above what they needed to do.
Our room was pretty special actually, really unusual layout and as with all the other Malmaison hotels, everything is high quality and exceptionally clean. We loved the art work and Erica spent 20 minutes playing with the TV which was cleverly hidden behind a picture!
The bathroom was pretty unusual, almost like a kitchen bar situation which had a sink, small fridge and dressing table area, the shower and toilet were in separate cubicles and the whole area had a see-through partition overlooking the main room, which all looked great however, if you were with someone you didn’t know very well, could be a little uncomfortable.
We had breakfast in the morning, this was one of the main reasons we booked as Sam had a very memorable breakfast at their Newcastle hotel a few years ago.
Every detail was thought of, we loved the branded milk jugs and cups etc, however the breakfast was no where near as good as Newcastle, everything just seemed a bit tasteless, which was a wee bit disappointing. That said, the service was really good and it was clear all their staff were happy to back to normality.
On our last night after our Roots dinner, we decided to visit their roof top bar. The bar has its own private lift and we were greeted at the top but a lovely member of staff who took us outside to our table. The views of York were spectacular! Even if you aren’t staying in the hotel we would recommend booking a table here so you can experience it. It’s a very cool bar (reminded us of some of the bars we visited in Amsterdam), very chilled and great service.
We paid £380 for our stay including breakfast, which was quite a bit less than other hotels in the area. We would definitely stay there again but would probably just go out for breakfast as you are spoilt for choice in York.
Malmaison have cleverly positioned themselves in the 4 star bracket, and it is clear that they make sure everything is the higher end of this as every detail has been considered and well though out.
Erica’s old saying, ‘under promise over deliver’ springs to mind with their hotels. We have booked to go to their Dundee & Aberdeen hotels soon which we are really looking forward to, although York will take some beating, it really is a very magical City.
