Historic city building offers exclusive deal for guests

Grays Court is one of the oldest buildings in the city, but it can now lay claim to being one of the most exclusive places to stay as well.

Seven rooms in the 11th century building have been transformed to provide accommodation for guests, with prices starting at £150 for the night.

Each of the rooms has been themed around individuals associated with Grays Court’s long history. The principal suite, which costs £300-a-night, has been named after the Duke of Cumberland who visited the property in 1746 when he was presented with the freedom of the city.

Grays Court was bought by conservation architect John Edwards and his partner Helen Heraty in 2005, before it was opened as a tearooms two years ago. Work on the guest accommodation has only just been finished. Mrs Heraty said: “We have the privilege of being able to live here, and we want to be able to share Grays Court with other people as well.”

The Grade I listed property dates back to 1080 when it was commissioned by the first Norman Archbishop of York Minster as the official residence of the Treasurer.