The Watergate Inn York Exterior photoThe Watergate Inn York Exterior photoThe Watergate Inn York Exterior photo

The Watergate Inn – A Favorite for Families in York

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Check rooms and rates
From$55 /night
Check-in
30Jul
Check-out
31Jul
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

24 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TJ
-
Close to the city centre
Very good
7.4
7.1
/10
3.0
/5

2-star Historic Inn in York, 300 metres from the City Walls

Rooms & Suites

The Watergate Inn offers room configurations for families and groups, including triple and quadruple rooms. All rooms have been recently upgraded with en-suite bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. The hotel provides free parking behind a locked gate, a rare find in central York.

Dining & Entertainment

The on-site bar serves fine ales and authentic charcoal grill food, including dishes like Chicken Gyros and Italian-style chicken. Guests can dine in the riverside garden or the courtyard, and the pub offers live entertainment. A full English breakfast is available for an additional charge, with options such as Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

The inn offers pet-friendly accommodations with no extra charges for dogs. This policy allows guests to bring their pets along when exploring York. The staff are known for being welcoming to four-legged guests, as noted in guest reviews.

Location

The Watergate Inn is located 300 metres from York City Walls and 600 metres from York Minster. The property is 300 metres from Clifford's Tower and the Grand Opera House. York train station is 1.2 km away, and Leeds Bradford International Airport is 39 km from the property.

On-Site Activities & Services

Guests can access cycling and fishing activities arranged nearby the property. The inn provides a minimarket on site for convenience. A shared lounge and TV area offers a space for relaxation outside of guest rooms.

Highlights

Parking: Free parking behind a locked gate in central York

Rooms: En-suite rooms with flat-screen TVs for families and groups

Dining: Riverside beer garden with authentic charcoal grill food

Pets: Dog-friendly with no extra charges for pets

Location: 300 metres from York City Walls and 600 metres from York Minster

“What stands out is its deep connection to York's history, reflected in its charming decor. The inn's location, close to the Barbican Centre and with the added benefit of free parking, makes it a practical base. I think the riverside beer garden especially enhances its appeal, creating a relaxed spot after a day exploring the city.”
Hotel logo
Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels

Choose from a variety of room types

Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included
  • Twin Room Private Bathroom
    2 persons
    12 sq. feet
    2 Single beds
  • Quadruple Room
    2 persons
    24 sq. feet
    2 Single beds
  • Double Room Private Bathroom
    2 persons
    12 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
Show all rooms

Availability and pricing for your selected dates

Book your family’s getaway in a snap with up-to-date availability and pricing!
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones
Facilities: Very good
7.2/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Barber shop

Sports & Fitness

  • Cycling

Services

  • Shops/Commercial services

Dining

  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables

Spa & Leisure

  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities
Show more

The Watergate Inn Location

24 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TJ
Explore York
Local Highlights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Jorvik Viking Centre
Jorvik Viking Centre
5 minutes walking
Interactive exhibits on Viking heritage. Experience life in the Viking Age through immersive displays.
York Minster
York Minster
8 minutes walking
Stunning Gothic cathedral known for its architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Guided tours available.
York Castle Museum
York Castle Museum
7 minutes walking
Social history museum featuring a Victorian street and exhibits on York's history. Offers unique artifacts to view.
York's Chocolate Story
York's Chocolate Story
5 minutes walking
Explore York's chocolate making history and participate in interactive chocolate making sessions.
Rowntree Park
Rowntree Park
15 minutes walking
Beautiful park with walking trails and a children's play area, great for relaxation or a family day out.
Biking along the River Ouse
10 minutes cycling
Scenic routes along the River Ouse. Rentals available nearby for a leisurely ride through York's picturesque landscapes.
Ghost Tours of York
10 minutes walking
Thrilling guided tours exploring York's haunted history. Great for thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
Yoga at York
10 minutes walking
Local studios offer various classes focusing on relaxation and wellness, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Penny's Bespoke Foodhouse
2 minutes walking
Charming eatery specializing in locally sourced dishes. Reservations recommended for their popular brunches.
The Hop
3 minutes walking
Casual pub atmosphere with a variety of craft beers and hearty British fare. Live music on select nights.
Cresci Pizzeria
3 minutes walking
Authentic Italian pizzas made from fresh ingredients, perfect for a quick meal. Vegetarian options available.
The Postern Gate
5 minutes walking
Historic pub offering a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring classic British dishes. Great for casual dining.
York Theatre Royal
10 minutes walking
Victorian theater featuring plays, musicals, and comedy shows. Family-friendly performances are often on schedule.
The Fossgate Social
15 minutes walking
Live music venue with a vibrant atmosphere. Check their schedule for local bands and themed nights.
City Screen Picturehouse
12 minutes walking
Independent cinema showcasing a mix of new releases and classic films. A cozy spot for film lovers.
Fibbers
15 minutes walking
Popular music venue offering a range of live gigs. Great for a night out with friends enjoying local talent.
Tips on navigating the city
  • City Centre
    York 5 min  ·  1400 ft
  • Airports
    Leeds Bradford (LBA) 78 min  ·  31.9 mi
    Doncaster Sheffield (DSA) 93 min  ·  38.5 mi
  • Train
    York Railway station 14 min  ·  3700 ft
  • Bus
    Bus stop 12 min  ·  3300 ft
Get access to exclusive early booking discounts for your family’s upcoming getaway
Book now and enjoy exclusive rates on your family vacation!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-20:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
13

Family-focused reviews and ratings

Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Watergate Inn enjoys a superb central location, just a short walk from the historic center and the Christmas market. Guests appreciate the clean rooms equipped with amenities like kettles, tea, coffee, and TVs with Netflix. The hotel also offers parking and easy access to rooms, while some guests have noted that rooms can be a bit small. The pub downstairs is friendly and serves a wonderful breakfast.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 1132 verified reviews
7.0 /10
Very good
66 %
Recommend
Location
9.3/10
Staff
9.0/10
Facilities
7.2/10
Free WiFi
7.3/10
Pros
Homely experience
Friendly staff
Great location
Comfortable bed
Cons
Small room
Guest reviews
based on 1132 reviews
7.0/10
based on 2276 reviews
7.4/10
rosie from united kingdom
Couple
small double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 09, 2026
6/10

mediocre stay

small room uncomfortable bed noise problem
the location was acceptable because it was close to everything.
The room was quite small and felt cramped. the bed was uncomfortable. I tossed and turned all night. the noise from other guests was bothersome. I could hear everything.
0 Helpful
David from United Kingdom
Single
Twin Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 07, 2026
9/10
on-site parking good selection easy access
the on-site parking provided much convenience. the breakfast had a good selection of items. the location allowed for very easy access to attractions.
i noticed some wear on the hallway carpeting.
0 Helpful
steven from united kingdom
Single
twin room private bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 03, 2026
9/10

central stay delight

central location on-site parking
i found the location quite central. on-site parking was available, a definite plus. check-in was simple thanks to clear instructions. the staff was friendly too.
it made for some noisy mornings, even on the weekend. i understood the weekday work, but weekend starts were rough.
Rooms
8/10
the room had tea and a kettle. the size of the room was decent, and i appreciated that. these amenities allowed for personal comfort and convenience .
0 Helpful
|
Show more
sebastian from germany
Single
twin room private bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 25, 2026
9/10

a gem by the river

friendly staff convenient location comforting touch
the staff exuded warmth, answering every question i had with grace. i walked to every attraction, the location proved convenient. my twin room private bathroom was cozy, tea and coffee making facilities added a comforting touch.
the single pane windows allowed noise to filter in, making it hard to fall asleep.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel features a charming pub offering local ales, it provides a cozy spot for evening relaxation. a small terrace overlooks the river, perfect for enjoying a quiet drink. There is also a luggage storage service available.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Hudson from Canada
Business traveller
Twin Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 18, 2026
9.0/10

central STAY near EVERYTHING

generous space warm room friendly staff secure parking
i found the location really good, only minutes from the christmas market. the room had generous space and also felt quite warm. staff were friendly and checked me in with little fuss, that i appreciated. parking was easily available and secure.
the bedroom felt slightly unclean and needed a better hoover, not so nice.
Location
9/10
the inn is near city center, so it is very close to sites, restaurants and pubs. i did notice that the hotel had walking distance from the christmas market with parking which is helpful. a street full of restaurants was steps away.
Dining
8/10
the pub offered food and sky sports, so i could relax after my travels. bar facilities were available, and food was pretty good when i tried it one afternoon. i did not have any major complaints at the bar.
Facilities
10/10
free parking was available, this was very important for my trip with the car. the room featured A comfortable bed and felt quiet, i slept very well each evening. there was light in the room and a nice feel.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Luna from Spain
Family with children
Double Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: January 18, 2026
7/10
ideal location comfortable bed basic room small room shower drain overflowing shower
The location was great. I walked to many sights, and I did not need public transport. The room had basics I needed. The bed was surprisingly comfortable.
The room was very small. I could not fully open the bathroom door. The shower was slow draining. IT was in danger of overflowing.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Watergate Inn
What is the distance from The Watergate Inn to York Minster?
The Watergate Inn is located 600 m from York Minster.
Which historical landmarks are near The Watergate Inn?
Nearby historical landmarks include York City Walls and Cliffords Tower, both located 300 m away.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Watergate Inn?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
What amenities are included in the rooms at The Watergate Inn?
All rooms feature en suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee making facilities.
What dining options are available at The Watergate Inn?
The Watergate Inn includes an on-site restaurant and a bar/lounge area for guests.
Does The Watergate Inn offer free Wi-Fi?
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout The Watergate Inn.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at The Watergate Inn?
Guests can enjoy cycling and fishing near The Watergate Inn.
How far is The Watergate Inn from Leeds Bradford International Airport?
The Watergate Inn is located 39 km from Leeds Bradford International Airport.
What are some nearby dining options to The Watergate Inn?
Nearby restaurants include Corner Grill House, Khao San Rd, El Gaucho, and The Red Lion, all located within 300 m.

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