York is officially home to the best small hotel in England.
Beautiful Grays Court was named Small Hotel of the Year at the VisitEngland National Awards for Excellence last night (18 August).
It scooped the gold award at a special virtual ceremony.
Grays Court saw off competition from fellow finalists Cary Arms & Spa in Devon and Seaham Hall County in Durham to take the honour.
Grays Court had gone through to the final after scooping Small Hotel of the Year in both the Visit York Tourism Awards and the White Rose Awards.
‘Amazing experience’
Mystery shopper feedback for the hotel included praise for the overall ‘amazing experience’, the cleanliness and attention to detail, and ‘great food and great service’.
Owner of Grays Court Helen Heraty said: “It is such a great achievement for the whole team to be recognised on a national level and win this prestigious award.
“This is real boost after what has been a challenging year for everyone, and we are so proud to have brought the award home to York. Thank you to all of our team who have worked so hard to make this happen – we couldn’t be happier with this win!”
Greg Dyke, Chair of Make It York, said: “Congratulations to Grays Court Hotel for this fantastic achievement.
“To be chosen as the winner from hotels across the whole country is testament to all the hard work that the team put in to continually deliver amazing customer service and we are delighted that this has been recognised with such a prestigious national award.
“A huge well done to Helen, Sarah and the whole Grays Court team!”
Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire James Mason said: “With its beautiful rooms, stunning cuisine and exceptional service it’s no surprise Grays Court has been named small hotel of the year.
“It’s a true slice of Yorkshire heaven.”