THE WATERGATE INN | Cheap Hotel in York | Book & Save

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Key details

About the Hotel

24 Walmgate, York, United Kingdom, YO1 9TJ

Steps from the historic old town

Very good

7.3

7.1

/10

3.0

Loved by The Watergate Inn guests

Helpful staff
Comfortable beds
Good location
Tasty pizzas
Super clean room

"Out back car park and beer garden was another nice touch as next to river."

Brenda from United Kingdom

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"The location is perfect being right in the centre of York!"

david_surlong from United Kingdom

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"Outside lovely seating area right by the river and last but not least staff are so welcoming very attentive 5 star service will be going back again"

Nancy

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Dining

The Watergate Inn offers an authentic charcoal grill, specializing in homemade burgers, hot dogs, and chicken dishes. The popular menu also features Italian antipasto and calamari, ensuring a diverse selection for guests. A riverside beer garden provides a scenic space to enjoy food and drinks alongside the River Foss.

Rooms

The accommodation includes 13 rooms with various layouts to meet different needs. Rooms offer comfortable en-suite bathrooms along with large screen TVs and tea and coffee-making facilities. The largest family room can accommodate up to five guests, providing flexibility for groups and families.

Location

Located centrally in York, the hotel offers convenient access to major attractions and cultural sites within walking distance. This location allows guests to easily explore the rich history of York, including its ancient walls and world-class museums. The hotel's position also facilitates easy access to the beautiful Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors.

Amenities

The hotel is a proud independent venue, renowned for its quirky style and historical significance as one of York's oldest coaching inns. A new app enhances food and drink ordering for a quicker service, ensuring a modern touch to the traditional experience. On-site bar offerings include a selection of fine ales, wines, and spirits.

Family-Friendly

Family accommodations at The Watergate Inn support various group sizes, with options available for small and larger families. Each room is equipped with en-suite facilities, increasing convenience for parents. Exploring York's attractions alongside family members creates lasting memories.

Highlights

Dining: Authentic charcoal grill and riverside beer garden

Rooms: 13 rooms with en-suite bathrooms

Location: Convenient access to major attractions

Family-Friendly: Flexible accommodations for groups and families

“This historic inn, one of York's oldest, certainly charms with its central location and riverside beer garden. It seems a solid pick if you value character and local pub life over flawless modern luxury. I see this as an affordable base for exploring the city, dogs in tow.”

Olivia SmithEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels

Location: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingStress-Free Parking

The secure, off-road parking made exploring the city center so easy and convenient. A true bonus!

Oliver from England

Review on

DiningDelicious Dinners

Breakfast was amazing but dinners were even better. The portions were very generous and everything tasted great!

Poppy from Wales

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Room FeaturesEquipped Comfort

The room had everything I needed, including complimentary toiletries. Plus, tea and coffee were provided!

Noah from Scotland

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Children's AmenitiesFamily Friendly

We loved it! The staff made a fuss of our kids and were very accommodating to us all.

Lily from Canada

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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals

Twin Room Private Bathroom

2 persons

130 sq. feet

2 Single beds

room details

Quadruple Room

2 persons

260 sq. feet

2 Single beds

room details

Double Room Private Bathroom

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 Double bed

room details

Single Room

2 persons

80 sq. feet

1 Single bed

room details

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Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

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

The Watergate Inn Location

24 Walmgate, York, United Kingdom, YO1 9TJ

Map view

24 Walmgate, York, United Kingdom, YO1 9TJ

City landmarks

Museum

National Railway Museum

1.1 mi

Church

York Minster

2200 ft

Church

St Wilfrid's Catholic Church

2600 ft

Landmark

Quilt Museum and Gallery

2100 ft

Museum

Yorkshire Museum

3200 ft

Public Building

York Guildhall

2200 ft

Event hall

Merchant Taylors Hall

2300 ft

Landmark

York Museum Gardens

3200 ft

Event hall

Jacobs Well

3000 ft

Church

Priory Church of the Holy Trinity

3200 ft

Shopping Area

Stonegate

2200 ft

Square

Saint Helen's Square

2200 ft

Event hall

Saint William's College

2300 ft

Park

Rowntree Park

4100 ft

Landmark

De Grey Rooms And Attached Gates

2600 ft

Landmark

The Hospitium

2700 ft

Square

Kings Square

2700 ft

Gallery

York Art Gallery

4200 ft

Nearby

York YO1 7HBEngland

York City Walls

1600 ft

Museum

Jorvik Viking Centre

1200 ft

Museum

York Castle Museum

1800 ft

Museum

York's Chocolate Story

1400 ft

Tower Street

Clifford's Tower

1800 ft

12 Clifford St

The York Dungeon

1400 ft

York YO1 8BL

St. Crux Parish Hall

1300 ft

Church

St Denys's Church

1500 ft

Museum

Merchant Adventurers' Hall

500 ft

Goodramgate

2000 ft

Church

Church of St Mary Bishophill Junior

800 ft

Fairfax House Castlegate

Fairfax House

1100 ft

Restaurants

Mooboo

200 ft

21-23 Walmgate

The Fossgate Social

500 ft

25 Fossgate

The Hop

700 ft

11-12 Fossgate

Shambles Kitchen

1000 ft

5 Silver Street Shambles Food Market

The Postern Gate

1300 ft

90 Piccadilly

Cresci Pizzeria

800 ft

20 piccadilly

Spread Eagle

900 ft

98 Walmgate City Centre

Los Moros

1200 ft

Unit A4 Hazel Court Shambles Market

York's Yummy Chicken

900 ft

28 Pavement

Explore York

Jorvik Viking Centre

5 minutes' walk

Themed around Viking history, this center features interactive exhibits and archaeological finds. Great for families!

York Minster

8 minutes' walk

A stunning Gothic cathedral, renowned for its stained glass, and stunning architecture. Offers guided tours for deeper insight.

York Castle Museum

7 minutes' walk

Combining local history and interactive displays, this museum takes you back in time. Excellent for all ages.

York City Walls

6 minutes' walk

A significant historical landmark, these walls offer a scenic walk with views over the city. Great for a leisurely stroll.

Rowntree Park

15 minutes' walk

A beautiful park ideal for picnics or leisurely walks, featuring playgrounds and serene gardens. Perfect for relaxation.

Bike Rentals at Cycle Heaven

15 minutes' walk

Rent a bike and explore York's scenic routes, including the riverside path. Great for adventure seekers.

Penny's Bespoke Foodhouse

2 minutes' walk

Casual dining with a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy locally sourced dishes, including vegetarian options. Reservations are recommended.

The Hop

3 minutes' walk

A lively pub known for its craft beers and hearty British cuisine. Try their famous fish and chips for a local classic.

The Grand Opera House

15 minutes' walk

Enjoy live performances ranging from musicals to comedy shows in a historic setting. Family-friendly events available.

Fibbers

15 minutes' walk

A popular venue for live music and local acts, with a vibrant atmosphere. Offers a mix of genres and themed nights.

Getting around town

City Centre

York5 min · 1400 ft

Airports

Leeds Bradford (LBA)79 min · 32.7 mi

Doncaster Sheffield (DSA)93 min · 38.5 mi

Train

York Railway station14 min · 3700 ft

Bus

Bus stop12 min · 3300 ft

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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 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:

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Watergate Inn enjoys a fabulous location, just a short walk from the Shambles and other central York attractions. Guests appreciate the convenience of on-site parking and rooms equipped with coffee-making facilities. The breakfast is considered good value, although some guests have noted that the plates could be heated to keep the food warm. Certain rooms can be small with a skylight instead of a window.

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Review score

Based on 1132 verified reviews

7.0/10

Very good

66%

Recommend

Location

9.4/10

Staff

9.0/10

Free Wi-Fi

6.9/10

Facilities

7.2/10

Pros

Good location

Comfortable bed

Friendly staff

Cons

Dirty room

Ivor from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room Private Bathroom

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 31, 2026

6/10

convenient locationsmall roomtoo small quilt

The location was acceptable. It was close to the center.

the room felt quite small, and the quilt was too small for the bed. i also found the bed pushed right up against a wall, it was rather awkward. there did not seem to be any staff around, a bit unsettling.

0 Helpful

Liam from Ireland

Single

Single Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 21, 2025

9/10

central locationbreakfast options

The location was central I walked everywhere I needed to go. The breakfast I purchased in the pub was excellent it had plenty of options.

The kettle in my room wasn't very clean it made me hesitant to use it.

0 Helpful

Andy from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room Private Bathroom

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 28, 2025

8.7/10

Central Stay, Highly Recommended!

friendly staffcentral locationuseful kettleseparate bathroom

The location was perfect! It was close to the main attractions. The staff was friendly, always smiling, though the parking was expensive. I had a kettle with tea and coffee in the room, very useful for a quick drink. The separate bathroom featured a shower, very practical.

The room felt a bit small, and the blinds did not close completely. Though the room was quiet.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast was available. It was not included, though residents received a discount. I appreciated this convenient option. The dining area seemed clean. the staff was attentive to all guest needs.

Facilities

8/10

Parking was available near the premises, a valuable amenity in such a central location. The city open-top bus route stopped near the hotel. It offered easy access to various sights. This setup provided convenience for exploring the area.

Rooms

9/10

The room included storage space, allowing me to organize my belongings easily. Plugs were plentiful and very accessible. Toiletries were provided. This made packing more convenient. The room ensured a practical stay.

0 Helpful

cameron from united kingdom

Single

twin room private bathroom

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 26, 2025

8.7/10

convenient stay

easy accesshelpful staffconvenient parking

the location provided easy access to nearby attractions. i found the staff consistently helpful and friendly. the included parking was convenient, saving additional expenses. the room was well-equipped with necessary amenities.

i noticed some wear on the older towels.

Service

9/10

the staff addressed inquiries promptly and politely. i observed attentive service during my interactions with the reception. staff members provided helpful directions and information about local attractions. they offered assistance with luggage.

Dining

8/10

the breakfast buffet included a selection of cereals, pastries, and hot items. i saw fresh fruit and yogurt available each morning. coffee and tea were readily accessible in the dining area. there were several nearby restaurants.

Rooms

9/10

the room featured two comfortable beds and a private bathroom. i noted the presence of a tv with multiple channels available. the room had a small desk and a chair. there was ample storage space.

0 Helpful

Matthew from United Kingdom

Single

Single Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed:October 25, 2025

7/10

A decent experience

excellent locationclean roomclothes hangersdated roomthin mattresslumpy pillows

The location was EXCELLENT! It is right in the city. The room was clean. It had everything I needed for my stay, including heaters, a kettle, and tea and coffee. There were lots of clothes hangers, toiletries, and plenty of toilet rolls available.

The rooms felt dated. They NEEDED a lot of tlc. The bed was terrible, and I hardly slept. It was a small double with a very thin mattress. The pillows needed replacing, as they were very old and lumpy.

0 Helpful

Barry from Australia

Family with children

Double Room Private Bathroom

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 25, 2025

9.0/10

Excellent Location and Friendly Staff

safe parkingearly check-incomfortable bedfantastic location

I found that I was able to park early before check-in, which I was grateful for. The car was kept very safe behind a locked gate! A lovely lady showed me to my room and explained everything. The room was basic, but the bed was super comfortable and the location is fantastic. It was only a short walk to nearby attractions and a pub!

The room was a little too bright. Thicker curtains could improve the sleeping environment.

Dining

8/10

The breakfast service provides a ten percent discount for hotel residents, a nice perk. The food available was good and prepared well, though it is not included in the room price. I am grateful for the discount.

Rooms

9/10

My room had nice, warm temperature control and a good, powerful shower! The provided toiletries were a nice touch, and tea and coffee facilities were included. I was happy with the amenities.

Service

10/10

The staff members were very friendly and helpful, an aspect I deeply appreciated. They made sure I had everything I needed. Early check-in was accommodated, a massive help!

0 Helpful

FAQs

About The Watergate Inn

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.

How far is The Watergate Inn from York Minster?

The Watergate Inn is located 600 m from York Minster.

Is there parking available at The Watergate Inn?

The Watergate Inn offers free parking on-site for guests.

What amenities can guests expect in the rooms at The Watergate Inn?

All rooms come equipped with en suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee making facilities.

What dining options are available near The Watergate Inn?

Nearby dining options include Corner Grill House, Khao San Rd, El Gaucho, The Red Lion, Chopping Block at Walmgate Ale House, Barbakan, and Le Cochon Aveugle, all located within 0.5 km.

What activities can guests participate in at The Watergate Inn?

Guests can enjoy activities such as cycling and fishing nearby.

Which major attractions are close to The Watergate Inn?

Nearby attractions include York Minster (600 m), York City Walls (300 m), and the Grand Opera House (300 m).

How far is The Watergate Inn from Leeds Bradford International Airport?

The Watergate Inn is approximately 39 km from Leeds Bradford International Airport.

What type of environment does The Watergate Inn provide?

The Watergate Inn features a historic, family-friendly, and pub-style environment with a riverside beer garden.

Does The Watergate Inn offer Wi-Fi?

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout The Watergate Inn.

Is smoking allowed at The Watergate Inn?

The Watergate Inn is a smoke-free property.

What is the range of room configurations at The Watergate Inn?

The Watergate Inn offers a variety of room configurations, including single, double, and family/group rooms, with the largest accommodating up to five guests.