MonkBridge House, an eight-bedroom guest house in York run by married couple Paul and Fiona Hemsley, has been named the best bed and breakfast in England, clinching Gold at the 2026 Visit England National Finals.
The property, which dates back to 1864, is an eight-minute walk from York's historic City Walls. It has earned five-star reviews year after year, as well as back-to-back North Yorkshire Guest House of the Year titles in 2024 and 2025.
Location and local attractions
Its location is a major selling point, with easy access to York's Roman history. Attractions include York Minster, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral with medieval stained-glass windows, and Clifford's Tower, the largest surviving remnant of York Castle. The JORVIK Viking Centre has been described online as 'rich in information'. Bettys York Café Tea Rooms is a fan-favourite on TikTok.
Guest reviews and amenities
Guests frequently use the word 'beautiful' in reviews, with one describing the property as 'full of charm'. The eight refurbished bedrooms include doubles, twins, and three triple options. The Rymer room features an antique French oak Four Poster Bed, an ensuite with underfloor heating, and a walk-in shower. All rooms come with an ensuite, minibar/fridge, flat-screen TV, hairdryer, and USB sockets.
Guests have praised the B&B's cleanliness, describing rooms as 'spotless, spacious and beautifully decorated'. One visitor said the 'little handmade touches' made her feel 'instantly at home'. The property also has a garden and a guest lounge with a licensed honesty bar.
Breakfast has been described as 'top notch' by guest Mike Curtis, while Michael Gregson added: 'The breakfast was outstanding — genuinely one of the highlights of our stay.' A Google review by Dorothy Bainbridge recommends the 'wonderful homemade marmalade'.
Prices and booking
For two adults in November, a two-night stay in a standard twin costs £307 (about £150 each). A double room with Cast Iron Kingsize bed costs £366 (around £183 each), while the Luxurious Four Poster Kingsize room costs £376 (£188 per person).
Rooms are typically booked months in advance, so availability is limited.
