Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space
Parking available
Rooms & beds
4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 3
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 4
2 Single Beds
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Bathroom 2
Spaces
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Outstanding historic townhouse in city centre next to York Minster (sleeps 2-8)
Awards to date: 1. 5 star gold award by Visit England. 2. Nothing less than 5 star reviews on tripadvisor. 3. Selected by Sawday's as a 'Special Place'.
No. 2 Precentor's Court is relatively new to the holiday market (April 2014) and has only just been listed with Owners Direct (September 2015).
It is suitable for families and mixed groups of friends. Please be aware that Precentor's Court is in a sacred and quiet part of the city, and out of respect for the Church and our neighbours, we do not accept bookings from single sex parties. Thank you.
The property is a 4 bedroom townhouse, with a courtyard garden; it can accommodate up to 8 guests. The rental comprises of the entire house, thereby offering privacy and space, and is arguably the best located holiday property in York.
A comprehensive refurbishment of the entire house has just been completed, and care was taken to retain the original features, many of which date back nearly 300 years. This sympathetic restoration, when coupled with an eclectic mix of high quality antique and contemporary furnishings, has resulted in an elegant yet relaxed and comfortable residence, recently featured (July 2014) in '25 Beautiful Homes' magazine.
Location, location, location: Placed at the entrance to Precentor's Court, this hidden gem occupies a unique and enviable position in the heart of York, just yards from the 800 year old Gothic cathedral that is York Minster. Not only is the property ideally placed for exploring and enjoying the wonderful city of York, together with the beautiful county of Yorkshire*, but it is also a superb base for exploring the rest of Britain. York’s famously curved Victorian railway station is just a few minutes walk away with connections all over the country including London and Edinburgh in just under two hours.
Accommodation: Living accommodation is arranged over 3 floors. The house is centrally heated with fully adjustable cast iron column radiators in every room. At the back is a courtyard garden offering private outdoor space in the heart of the city, whilst to the front it is just a few steps to the Dean's garden - a great place for a picnic. WiFi broadband is available throughout the house.
Ground Floor: Lounge - plenty of comfortable seating and a high definition TV with Netflix. Kitchen / Pantry / Diner - modern kitchen meets vintage dining area. Tiled Hallway - a tiled hallway with an array of coat hooks and a tourist information cupboard.
The Knowledge: On a lectern in the dining area is a large red book entitled 'The Knowledge'. Compiled by the owners, to ensure that their guests have the best experience, it is a constantly updated distillation of the best in and around York - including restaurants, pubs, shopping, sights, entertainment and excursions. Invaluable!
The Bedrooms: All bedrooms have wonderful views of the Minster and adjacent Dean's garden. All are equipped with - hairdryers, towels, mirrors, luggage racks, and bed-side tables and lights. All bedding and linen is high quality cotton.
Middle floor: Bedroom (1) - original fireplace, large king-sized double bed and walk-in wardrobe, furnishings include antique secretaire, antique George III chairs , gilded trumpet candelabra. House Bathroom - bath, shower, hand-basin, toilet, and heated towel rail. Bedroom (2) - very similar to bedroom 1. but with a free-standing wardrobe and dresser.
Top Floor: Bedroom (3) - in the eaves of the house, original fireplace, a double bed, rare walnut knee-hole dresser with shield mirror. Second Bathroom - small but perfectly formed wet-room with an electric shower, toilet and hand-basin. Bedroom (4) - single wooden sleigh bed, folding single bed (will be made up on those occasions when there is a full compliment of 8 guests), walk in wardrobe with cupboard to stow luggage.
Boring but important. Safety: The safety of all our guests is of paramount importance to us and whilst we ensure that the house is a safe as is reasonably possible, it is not 'toddler-proof', and we caution parents against bringing very young children (below the age of 4) who would need constant supervision on the stairs and in the kitchen. The Elderly: There are 2 sets of winding wooden stairs to reach the upper floors which might prove difficult for the elderly and infirm (and hazardous for the very young).
Parking: For those guests arriving by car there is a free car-parking space for one vehicle, 5 minutes walk from the house. Additional spaces are available in the York City Council car parks which are also close by. Further information on parking and directions will be given in our 'Welcome Package'. It is possible to load and unload directly outside the house before parking up.
Single sex stag/hen parties: Standing in the precincts of York Minster, Precentor's Court is in a quiet and residential part of the city. Out of respect to both the Church, and our other neighbours (many of whom have young children), we will not accept bookings from stag/hen parties. Sorry.
*Yorkshire came third in Lonely Planet's 2014 top ten world destinations!
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Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
York
Located in York, this holiday home is in the city centre. Notable landmarks in the area include York Minster and Shambles. Travelling with kids? Consider Yorkshire Museum Gardens, or check out an event or a game at York Barbican. Swimming offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling, hiking/biking trails and mountain biking nearby.
Is Outstanding historic townhouse in city centre next to York Minster (sleeps 2-8) pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Outstanding historic townhouse in city centre next to York Minster (sleeps 2-8)?
As of 3 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Outstanding historic townhouse in city centre next to York Minster (sleeps 2-8) on 13 Apr 2026 start from AU$670, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Outstanding historic townhouse in city centre next to York Minster (sleeps 2-8)?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Outstanding historic townhouse in city centre next to York Minster (sleeps 2-8)?
Check-in begins at 3:30 PM.
What time is check-out at Outstanding historic townhouse in city centre next to York Minster (sleeps 2-8)?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Outstanding historic townhouse in city centre next to York Minster (sleeps 2-8) located?
Located in the heart of York, this family-friendly holiday home is steps away from Dean's Park and York Minster. Exhibition Square and Bootham Bar are just steps away. York Station is 10 minutes by foot and York (QQY-York Train Station) is 10 minutes.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We loved staying here! The house is comfortable and the location is very central so getting around was easy. The host was extremely responsive and knowledgeable. Would certainly stay here again!
Casey L.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 May 2025
Delighted to hear you loved the house and your stay in York. Thank you for visiting and the review
We loved the location next to York Minster. The bells on Sunday morning were so beautiful, they drew us to attend the Sunday morning service. Fabulous pubs and shops were just around the corner. Yet very quiet at night. Could not have asked for a better location. The age of the house was in keeping with the age of the city! Loved it!
Linda H.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2025
Thank you for the lovely review. It is always a delight to hear what a fabulous time guests have had in this very special location.
This 300 year old row house is within 2 minutes of the Munster and 8 minutes of anywhere in York. Well appointed with French coffee press so breakfast was wonderful
Sandra C.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Oct 2024
Dear Sandra,
Thank you for your review.
Delighted you enjoyed your stay.
Best wishes,
Jane
A fabulous stay in a very quirky, perfectly positioned period property in the heart of York. Our hosts provided everything we needed and their timely updates with the necessary information made for a smooth arrival and departure.
Toni C.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Laura M.
22 July 2018
Outstanding rental
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this beautiful, historic townhouse. The location is phenomenal, and York is such a beautiful, interesting city. The townhouse had absolutely everything we needed, was impeccably clean and tastefully decorated. We had such a nice time in York and would love to return. When we do, we will definitely rent this townhouse again.
Laura M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2020
Dear Laura, I am delighted you enjoyed your stay at Precentors Court and hope that you do return. Thank you for the lovely review. Best wishes, Jane
This property is in the perfect location to explore all of York on foot. Jane & Stephen were such thoughtful hosts and made us feel welcome in this cozy home. All we had to do was enjoy everything York has to offer, all within walking distance. We were so comfortable in this home and if we are fortunate to return to York, we would definitely stay here again.
Linda S.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 31 July 2024
Dear Linda,
Thank you for the lovely review, much appreciated.
I was delighted to read that you enjoyed York and the house and we look forward to you returning in the future.
Best wishes,
Jane & Steve
It was quite special to be able to stay so close the the Minster with a short walk to York's many places to eat, drink, visit and shop. You don't have to be devout to enjoy the wonderful choral and organ music at Evensong in such an atmospheric building even more so when at one service, we heard the choir sing Allegri's Miserere.
The house is very well equipped, comfortable and a delight to stay in.
It is hard to put into words how much we enjoyed our stay and how it defied our every expectation! The house is not only absolutely beautiful, but even the smallest details have been attended to. Jane and Steve quite literally thought of everything from tea and coffee, to fresh milk in the fridge, to welcome and delicious goodies for the family. We are a large family and had more than enough room to spread out and comfortably sleep. Large, well appointed bedrooms, and multiple bathrooms were wonderful! We honestly didn’t want to leave! When you open the door and step outside, the Minster is immediately on the right and couldn’t be any closer. Truly, a dream holiday and location in every sense of the word and we absolutely plan on coming back!
Melanie K.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2024
Dear Melanie, thank you for your lovely review. I am so pleased you loved the house - as much as we do!
Hopefully you will return. I hope you enjoy the rest of your UK vacation as much. Best wishes, Jane
We had a wonderful week staying in this period house. It’s location right next to the Minster and in the heart of York is unbeatable. The secure car parking nearby was excellent, and a bonus for us was the bank of EV chargers in the main car park. The house is very well equipped, clean and comfortable. The two bathrooms are hotel quality and there is a quirky outside loo. Bed linen and towels were all high quality. Due to the age of the house, some floors are uneven and doorways low - my son bumped his head a few times. WiFi is very slow and the smart TV can struggle to connect to Netflix. The house has lots of room and easily coped with six adults. The owners are great. We emailed them to report a small leak and it was fixed by a plumber within two hours. They also left us a cake and cookies from Betty’s. Overall, this is one of the best holiday rentals we’ve had in the UK. The lovely and historic house together with the brilliant location nailed it for us. Recommended.
Russell E.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 23 June 2021
Dear Russell & Julie,
Thank you for your kind review. Thank you also for your assistance with the leak. I was delighted to read that you enjoyed your stay and hope you will return at some point. Best wishes, Jane
We had the most amazing time staying in this beautiful house for our wedding! It was incredibly comfortable, very well equipped and the location simply couldn’t be better! Jane was fantastic - communicated brilliantly all the way through (answering all my annoying bride questions) and couldn’t have been kinder. Parking is very straightforward, too. Highly, highly recommend!
Notwithstanding the age of the property we were looking for a more cosy dwelling. The first floor was to hot and the second to cold. It was in our opinion not a dwelling you looked forward to going back to.
Russell K.
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2020
Dear Russell,
I am sorry to hear that you found the temperature in the house uncomfortable. Such a shame that you did not contact me during your stay so that I could help you resolve the situation rather than it spoil your stay.
Best wishes,
Jane
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Julie K.
7 July 2018
Excellent location and wonderful lodging!
We couldn’t have asked for a better spot to begin our UK adventure! It was convenient - even has a parking spot in a locked garage - and just so nice to be a part of the history of York with this wonderfully refurbished home! I will recommend to my friends for sure!
Julie K.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2020
Dear Julie, thank you for your lovely review. I am delighted you enjoyed your stay. Enjoy the rest of your UK adventure!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Randall S.
23 Dec 2017
rsven2017
What a find. It was like being in a Dickens novel. Right next to the Minster, our four bedroom / two bath accommodations were simply charming. We met in the kitchen each morning to plan our day and the parlor across the entrance hall each evening to discuss our adventures. The flat was neat and clean, with up to date appliances and furnishings. The next time we are in York we will definitely give Jane a ring.
Randall S.
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Anna M.
22 Oct 2017
Fabulous, fabulous...
fabulous!
Anna M.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Mrs B.
26 Sept 2017
Superb!!!
We rented the apartment to celebrate 🙌 a 70th birthday 🎂. We found it very welcoming and extremely comfortable. An excellent location for the Minster, shopping and pubs and restaurants. York is a lovely place to be and having somewhere nice to stay was the icing on the cake.. Thank you.
Mrs B.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Shelley F.
22 July 2017
A beautiful home in the equally beautiful York
We had such a wonderful stay. It was the perfect setting for pre-wedding photos, and I'm going to treasure the memories of getting dressed on my wedding day in this glorious house. The owners are superb, swiftly answering any queries and providing us with everything we could need for a comfortable stay. The location could not be better, with the exquisite Minster on the doorstep. This house is highly recommended as an extra special base for a visit to York. Thank you so much for your hospitality. You made a dream day utterly perfect.
Shelley F.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Susan and Earl S.
14 July 2017
A great property in a fantastic location
The apartment couldnt be located in a better place for visiting York. There are so many resturants, cafe's and bars within a 10 minute walk that it was easy to find a new place to experience dinner in each night. The apartment also also comes with a parking permit so that we were able to rent a car and easily explore Castle Howard, the moors and the beaches. We also enjoyed the little food and wine gift on arrival and thought that the apartment had everything you need to make a great holiday even better.
Susan and Earl S.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Karen T.
21 June 2017
Beautiful property with the absolute best location!!
The owners have done a wonderful job mondernizing the house to bring their guests luxury including the kitchen and bathrooms as well as providing such comfortable beds. The location next to the Minster is unbelievable and we loved York!! Wonderful house and we would love to return and stay, again and again!!
Karen T.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Lisa W.
11 Jan 2017
Amazing house, can't wait to return!
We absolutely loved our stay at 2 Precentor Court. The location just can't be beaten. I've stayed in lots of holiday homes & this was the cleanest. House full of character & decorated beautifully. Beds very comfy with lovely linen. Thank you for the Prosecco & cakes from Betty's!
Lisa W.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Denise T.
31 Oct 2016
Stunning property in superb location
This stunning house with beautiful architectural and historic features is the perfect place to stay in York. We picked up the parking permit, got rid of the car and thoroughly enjoyed spending the week exploring on foot. It's so conveniently located that you can enjoy York at quieter times like first thing in the morning or early evening. I'm sure we'll visit York again and I won't be wasting time looking for hotels or rental properties. This is where we'll be staying from now on! Thank you for a lovely week.
Denise T.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2020
Thank you very much for the lovely review. I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay at Precentors Court and look forward to welcoming you again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
alan G.
14 Oct 2016
Fabulous
The rental was in an excellent location. The house was comfortable, clean and well laid out.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a get away to York
alan G.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2016
About the host
Hosted by Jane and Steve (Boxing Hare Ltd.)
Boxing Hare Ltd. is a small family company based in North Yorkshire. It is owned by Stephen and Jane who have lived and worked in the very middle of York, for nearly 20 years. They have two young children and the family home is a small farm about 20 miles north of York, which means that they are nearby should any problems arise.
Why they chose this property
” Both Jane and I are enormous fans of York and its people. At No. 2 Precentor’s Court, our intention is to provide our guests with a unique and comfortable home from which to explore our wonderful City and its surroundings. We want them to have the very best of times, and leave with many happy memories that will linger long after the holiday has finished. It is what we would want for ourselves.” S & J (April 2014)
What makes this property unique
Why should you choose No. 2 Precentor’s Court, York? In a nutshell, it’s because…….
unbeatable location, s p a c i o u s, courtyard garden, five star gold award (Visit England), stylish & comfortable, historic listed building, m o d e r n bathrooms, the ‘Knowledge’ (insiders guide to York & Yorkshire), free parking, 2000 years of history, atmospheric, high definition TV with Netflix, laundry, four double bedrooms , fully equipped kitchen, period features, eclectic and quirky, magnificent surroundings, excellent base for exploring Yorkshire, near mainline station - london/edinburgh 2 hours by train, glorious c o u n t r y side, dramatic coast, inspirational, Wi-Fi broadband, beautifully furnished, calm & relaxing ........... which is why it is a Sawday’s Special Place!
Nothing less than 5 star reviews on tripadvisor - so far!
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests