Menagerie House

Light and bright the dining room has a generous table for six guests, vintage linens and tableware and a wide range of glassware all continue the eclectic theme. Sarah has thoughtfully included a complimentary and generously stocked breakfast pantry which includes freshly baked pastries, a range of cereals, bread and jams, and the all essential barista quality coffee, everything you need to fuel up for the day ahead.

There’s a high chair too, available on request.

Fully equipped with everything you need for cooking up tasty feasts with all the goodies you can buy from local delis and artisans. You will also find a dishwasher, microwave, washer dryer and a picnic hamper.

Fancy a picnic? Fill the hamper and choose one of the many perfect picnic spots in and around the City, our favourites are Museum Gardens or Rowntree Park.

A secret suntrap with seating for six with a BBQ for al fresco suppers and festoon lighting for atmospheric gatherings.

Tucked away on the top floor Mouse Retreat is full of light and character, exposed beams and vintage finds are all cleverly balanced with the comfort and practicalities for rest and relaxation it has a handy wet room too.

In contrast to the sunny colours in the living spaces, The Aviary has a soft, dreamy palette. The Victorian fireplace and iron bedstead along with interesting artworks and eclectic finds make this serene room an inviting space to retreat to at the end of a busy day exploring and equally it will be a delight to wake up here with the light flooding in through the original sash window.

Fox Den is set on the first floor, it is a testament to Sarah’s creative eye, here she has cleverly mixed pops of colourful fabrics with neutral tones to offer a pretty yet cosy space to rest your head. This bedroom offers the flexibility of either one super king bed or twin beds, just let us know when you book.

This is definitely a bathroom you will want to linger in, colourful and quirky with the space to relax with a leisurely soak in the freestanding tub and if time is of the essence there’s a shower over it too.

If you need to stay connected during your stay you can make use of the dedicated work space with Hi-speed broadband and USB charging points.

City of York

Menagerie House is centrally located in the City of York, you are perfectly placed to head into the City to experience the culture of the Minster, museums, galleries and the ancient City walls. York is a city brimming with history and culture. Take a walk along the castle walls and marvel at the view below, or head to York Minster for some truly jaw dropping architecture and follow that with a wander around the cobbled streets with beautiful architecture to admire and independent boutiques to peruse. Or if your passion is food you’ll find many excellent independent bars and restaurants to discover!

• York Minster – The most popular place to visit in York,  York Minster is one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals.
• Museum Gardens and St. Mary’s Abbey – Surrounded by the abbey ruins, Hospitium, and views of River Ouse. There is much to discover here going back to the Romans.
• Clifford’s Tower – Run by English Heritage, it was originally built of timber by William the Conquerer to keep control of the North.  Today, you can take in some superb views of the city here and learn about the tower’s turbulent past.
• River Cruise – This can be taken from Lendal Landing, which is a five minute walk from Menagerie House.  They go every hour during high season and you can pre-book.
• The National Railway Museum – Fascinating for children and adults alike, open 7 days a week.
• The Bloody Tour of York –  A top recommendation from all the ghost tours is this one.  If you fancy something a bit different and some good fun, then this is the one.  Suitable for groups and families with children over the age of six.
• The Wizard Walk York – If ghost stories are not for your young ones, this is a super alternative, especially for any children who are enthralled with Harry Potter and wizardry. It is a fantastic family experience suitable for all.
• The Castle Museum – This is a great place to bring children for an immersive experience exploring York’s past, including World War One, the 1960s, the Victorians and plenty more. Lots of things to see, opportunities to dress up. It’s a hop, skip and jump from Clifford’s Tower, so you can take in the panoramic views of the city whilst you are there.
• The Jorvik Museum – Be advised to book ahead in high season to avoid the queues.  This place recreates Viking York, including the smell!  Buying a ‘pastport’ ticket, will give you entry to its sister attractions: The DIG and Barley Hall at a reduced rate.
• The Hilt – For groups and older families (13 years+).  Do book in advance and if attending with children, earlier sessions are best.
• The Hole In Wand – A magical indoor golf course situated in the centre of town, which is great on a rainy day!
• York Chocolate Story –  Chocolate Story explores York’s long history with chocolate, looking at the impact of the Rowntree and Terry’s chocolate factories’ in shaping the city and beyond. There is ample opportunity to sample chocolate along the way. KitKat, Chocolate Oranges, Rolos, Yorkie Bars all originated in York!
• Rowntree Park – Families travelling with children, head to where the locals go, there’s something to keep all ages entertained, including a skate park and tennis courts, it’s the perfect picnic spot too!.
• York Races – People come from far and wide to enjoy York Races. Check out the fixture dates and definitely book ahead.
• York Theatre Royal – If you are interested in taking in a play, the Theatre Royal is a good place to start. They also have a nice outside terraced area and café which serves great cakes and lunches.
• York Barbican – You will find a whole host of events on here, including music and comedy shows.
• Grand Opera House – Music acts and musicals are mostly performed at this venue, many on tour from the West End.
• The Treasurer’s House – This is a National Trust property in the heart of the city, next to the Minster.  It has a secluded garden and fantastic interior.
• The Bar Convent  – This is a lesser known gem of the city, being England’s most historic living convent, with a hidden chapel.  It has a beautiful Victorian atrium, where food is served and has an exhibition for visitors.

Further Afield

• Castle Howard 16 miles
• Cathedral City of Ripon 26
• Howardian Hills AONB 14 miles
• North York Moors National Park Centre at Danby 50 miles
• Whitby and the magnificent North Yorkshire Coast 48 miles
• Yorkshire Dales National Park Centre 40 miles
• Thirsk and the James Herriott Centre 25 miles
• Rievaulx Abbey 30 miles
• Byland Abbey 20 miles
• Harrogate 20 miles

There are lots of true locals pubs close by, some of Sarah’s favourites are . . .

• The Ackhorne – Family friendly, set on St. Martin’s Lane, fun quiz night on Thursdays, booking essential, great Sunday lunch, dogs welcome.
• The Golden Ball – Is York’s first community co-operative pub, quaint beer garden, real ales, family and dog friendly.
• Partisan – Laid back with an easy vibe, delicious food, good vegan options, dogs are welcome in outside courtyard.
• Brew and Brownie – Amazing food, lovely staff, walk-ins only.
• Dyls Cafe Bar – The building is really what this place is about, it sits on the banks of the Ouse and serves great cocktails.  The Motor House is situated on Skeldergate Bridge, and it has got a great quirk factor! There is an outside area at river level where dogs are welcome.
• Brew York – City centre brewery with a wide selection of beers produced in-house and it serves Asian fusion street food alongside. Great for groups and dogs are welcome inside and out.
• Spark – Lots of street food options available in converted storage containers.  It’s got something for everyone with the benefit of being able to sit outside all year round. Spacious and family and dog friendly.
• Blue Barbican – A good place to have lunch and cake.  It serves Polish cuisine and a wide selection of Polish beers.
• Star Inn The City – This is a great place to have a drink and take in the views from the terrace over the Ouse, but the food is good here too! Dogs are welcome in the bar area and on the terrace.
• Los Moros – Moroccan small plates, as well as large which are packed with flavour.  There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too and a good wine selection. Sit in the courtyard if the weather is fine!
• The Shambles Market – There are a wide range of street food options at the back of the market with plenty of seating available.  Dogs are more than welcome.
• Meltons – Great food for special occasions. Situated just outside of the Bar Walls off the popular Bishopthorpe Road. Much loved by locals and friendly staff.
• The Bow Room at Grays Court – Luxurious and stylish from the listed building to the grounds which back onto the Bar Walls. The food is good but you can equally opt to enjoy a glass of wine in the beautiful gardens.

Michelin Starred

• Roots – Just next to York’s Museum Gardens, this place is pure luxury for its exceptional food and has a deserved Michelin Star.  Booking is a must unless you have been lucky enough to secure a cancellation.
• The Abbey Inn Byland by Tommy Banks – 20 miles
• The Black Swan Oldstead by Tommy Banks – 23 miles
• The Star at Harome by Andrew Pern – 24 miles

Menagerie House offers guests a range additional experiences to enhance your stay and make the most of your stay in this beautiful home by partnering with a range of fantastic independent businesses with great offerings.

• Restoration & Relaxation – For guests seeking the opportunity to switch-off and reset in total privacy, can enjoy massage and reflexology treatments at the property, provided by our local fully trained therapist.
• Private Dining – There is something purely indulgent about having a chef cook for you in home surroundings. If you have a special event you wish to mark, an anniversary, birthday dinner or a friend’s wedding perhaps, we have a range of superb local chefs that we work with to provide amazing dining experiences at Menagerie House. Anything from canapes, three course meal to a ten course tasting menu is on offer. Dining experiences start from £360 (based on six people). If you would like to know more, please contact us directly and we will be happy to work with you to plan your dinner party.
• Added Extras – Luxury is all about the little details at Menagerie House. So, if you want to arrive to a delicious charcuterie board or surprise a loved one with a birthday cake, flowers and champagne in the fridge ready to pop, this can all be arranged for you.

Menagerie House welcomes dogs.

• Two small/medium sized dogs welcome
• Dogs are not allowed upstairs
• Dogs are not allowed on the furniture
• Muddy/wet dogs must be cleaned off before entering the house
• Dogs must not be left alone in the property unless they are crated
• Dog toileting must take place away from the house and any mess cleaned up
• There may be a charge if additional cleaning is required

• Explore the City on foot, there are scooter and bike hire hubs all aroud the city
• Parking nearby, please refer to the ‘Parking’ section for details
• Safe, contactless self check-in
• Complimentary breakfast pantry
• Picnic Basket
• Charcoal Barbecue
• Double oven and gas hob
• Microwave
• Dishwasher
• Fridge Freezer
• Toaster
• Coffee Machine
• Washer/Dryer
• High chair available on request
• Travel cot availabe on request
• Victorian house built in 1861
• Outdoor furniture
• Luxury Bed linen & Towels
• Hair dryer
• Iron
• Washing machine
• Smart  T.V.
• Supermarkets deliver to the house, please book a slot after your check in to allow for any travel delays
• Cafe’s, pubs and restaurants within walking distance

You can load and unload at Menagerie House, you will then need to park in one of the many 24 hour car parks available nearby, please note charges may be subject to change.

• The Premier Inn, situated at the top of Micklegate/Blossom Street, 3 min walk (£5.50 for 24hrs)
• Or North Street, 2 min walk (£8.00 for 24hrs)
• NCP at York Station 8 min walk (£12)
• Blossom Street Car Park, 9 min walk (£10.50)
• Nunnery Lane Car Park, 7 min walk (£18 per day) or
• Park and Ride options on the outskirts of the city

Please note the booking price shown for the property has been reduced to include an allowance for parking charges