Rich in history, The Judge’s Lodging – part of Daniel Thwaites – provides the perfect base to explore York. Built as a private residence in 1711, the five-star, Grade I listed Georgian Townhouse now boasts an AA Rosette-awarded restaurant, 21 luxurious bedrooms and a large outdoor terrace perfect for al fresco drinks.

A Brief History

The building’s origins first date back to 1711, when it was built as a private residence. The house was first home to Clifton Winteringham Senior, a medical practitioner who was appointed physician at York County Hospital. He was also a governor of the hospital, authored books, and practiced in York for over 35 years. It was Winteringham’s background in medicine that led to the addition of a statue of Aesculapius, the Greek god of healing, to the main door of the building.

In 1806 the building was bought by the York council to use as the judge's residence. The criminal courts held here were some of the most heinous and high-profile cases in the country at the time. The building served under this form until 1976.

After being purchased by Daniel Thwaites in 2012, the Judge’s Lodging has functioned as a hotel & bar for tourists and city residents alike. Whilst much of the building has been redesigned and refurbished to give guests a comfortable stay mixed with character and style, much of the building still features remnants of its heyday.

Accreditation and Awards:

• The Publican Awards 2023 ‘Best Accommodation Provider’ (Finalist) – 2023
• Five Star Silver Rating (AA) – 2022
• Visit York Tourism Awards 2023 ‘Small Hotel of the Year’ (Finalist) – 2022
• One Rosette (AA) – Retained since 2016

Opening Hours

• Hotel – 24/7
• Cellar Bar (Monday to Sunday) – 12pm to 9pm

Seasonal Experiences

The Judge’s Lodging provides a great location in the heart of York, which is perfect for experiencing the best of all seasons.

Jorvik Viking Experience

Experience Viking history in York. Check in to our beautiful grade 1 listed townhouse and make yourselves at home in one of our beautiful rooms. Included in your package is an overnight stay, and a delicious Yorkshire breakfast the following morning.

All Creatures Great and Small Experience

See the landscape that inspired James Herriot, creator of All Creatures Great and Small. Check in to our beautiful grade 1 listed townhouse and make yourselves at home in one of our beautiful rooms. After a great night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast, you will meet one of the experienced and knowledgeable tour guides from Mountain Goat Tours at Museum Gardens, just a short walk from ourselves. They will be waiting for you at 9.15am with a mini bus ready to head out on your full day trip.

Explore The North York Moors & Whitby Experience

Explore The North York Moors & Whitby with Mountain Goat. Check in to our beautiful grade 1 listed townhouse and make yourselves at home in one of our beautiful rooms. After a great night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast, you will meet one of the experienced and knowledgeable tour guides from Mountain Goat Tours at Museum Gardens, just a short walk from ourselves. They will be waiting for you at 9.15am with a mini bus ready to head out on your full day trip.

Explore The Yorkshire Dales Experience

Explore The Dales with Mountain Goat. Check in to our beautiful grade 1 listed townhouse and make yourselves at home in one of our beautiful rooms. After a great night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast, you will meet one of the experienced and knowledgeable tour guides from Mountain Goat Tours at Museum Gardens, just a short walk from ourselves. They will be waiting for you at 9.15am with a minibus ready to head out on your full day trip.

Group Sizes Catered For:

Up to 40 people.

Pricing Information:

Based on two people sharing (B&B), Small Double rooms start from £145.00

Based on two people sharing (B&B), Character rooms start from £185.00

Based on two people sharing (B&B), Courtyard rooms start from £150.00

Based on two people sharing (B&B), Terrace rooms start from £150.00

Based on two people sharing (B&B), Feature rooms start from £205.00

Based on two people sharing (B&B), The Judge’s Suite starts from £235.00

Facilities:

Restaurant and Bar

The Judge’s Lodging is the perfect destination to enjoy the company of friends and family. Local, fresh and full of flavour - using top quality seasonal produce from the best suppliers. We pride ourselves in creating hearty dishes for you to enjoy, championing our producer’s passion throughout our menu, capturing the seasons of the Yorkshire.

Emperor’s Gym

We don’t have a gym on site, but guests are very welcome to use the gym at our sister’s property Middletons, which is just a 10-minute walk away. They will just need to show their welcome card from the Judge’s when they check in to the Emperor’s Gym to gain complimentary access.

Private and Corporate Events

A unique setting for those looking to celebrate special occasions. With beautifully decorated dining rooms and a menu of locally sourced ingredients, our dedicated team will work with you to create an experience that exceeds your expectations.

Weddings

At Judge’s Lodging, we love to create truly memorable wedding days. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave as a newly married couple; we’re devoted to making your special day everything you want it to be.

Accessibility and Disabled Facilities:

Accommodation
We have one accessible guest room.

Restaurant
The Cellar Bar and downstairs dining areas are fully accessible.

Grounds
For a city-centre hotel, The Judge’s Lodging boasts a beautiful courtyard which is accessible from the main street.