The Duke & Duchess

Step out onto this apartment's balcony and you'll be able to see York City Walls — parts of which date back to Roman times — as well as steeples and rooftops beyond. There's alfresco seating out here, which is partially sheltered so you can take in this view even if the weather has other plans. Back inside, the interior design is simple but well-executed, with a palette of muted greys livened up by a couple of houseplants and pieces of abstract artwork. The long kitchen finished in matt grey gives you the option of home-cooked feasts, while the bathroom wouldn't look out of place in some of the fancier hotels in the city. Many of York's best sights are just a casual stroll away, too. The medieval buildings on The Shambles take just over ten minutes to reach on foot, as does the JORVIK Viking Centre.

Home truths:
*A travel cot and high chair are available upon request
*There's a lift in the building and the apartment itself is step-free
*Guests get one allocated parking space, as well as secure bike storage