Perfect for pooches

Rachel Roberts and Dolly the Labradoodle find it’s far from a dog’s life at this lovely four-star boutique hotel in the ancient city of York…

First impressions: Dolly the doggy wagged her tail in approval when we arrived at the hotel and discovered a bag of quality venison treats (handmade, don’t you know?), bowl, and squishy bed waiting in the room. The welcome letter was even addressed to her, reinforcing the fact that this place is more than happy to have four-legged guests to stay (for an extra £20 per night).

For the humans in the party, the initial glimpse of the hotel was enchanting too. Visiting in early autumn, the burnished copper and gold of the trees made the perfect foil for the four-star Regency period boutique hotel, framing it as if in an oil painting. There’s an immediate homely, friendly feel to The Grange – perhaps a reminder of the hotel’s earlier incarnation as two private ecclesiastical houses in the early 19th century.

Location: The historic centre of York, with its impressive Minster and famous Shambles quarter, is just a five-minute stroll away. So when you’ve had enough of the crowds, you can be back sipping Earl Grey (or something stronger) in the soothing silence of the hotel’s comfy lobby in next to no time. York is easy to navigate, thanks to the pretty intact medieval walls that contain the old part of the city and the Shambles – one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe – will bring out the spender in everyone. The cobbled street, lined with charming skew-whiffed half-timbered buildings, some dating back to the 15th century, was named winner of Google’s Most Picturesque Street in Britain in 2010. Once known as Flesshammel because of the many butcher shops (there were 26 in 1872), today there are a plethora of souvenir shops, cafes and chi-chi boutiques in their place. In neighbouring Blake Street, you’ll find The Imaginarium. It’s as magical as it sounds; a place where Harry Potter might go to find Christmas presents.

Facilities: The hotel, in the affluent Bootham part of York, was built in 1830 and enjoys Grade II-listed building status, which can be a blessing for historians, of course, but a tad headache-inducing for the hospitality industry, limiting any grand plans for reinvention. For example, general manager Suzanne Newman told me the idea for a spa had been scrapped, partly because of the many limitations they faced. But in way, while a spa would be a lovely addition, it’s not worth sacrificing all of the charming period details for. We enjoyed several Downton Abbey moments on the original sweeping staircase with its cast iron balustrade faded with the patina of time, and the hotel is dotted with interesting antiques.

Bedrooms: We stayed in a Premier King twin room, tastefully decked out in a serene Regency-style colour palette of creams and blues. In contrast, our bathroom was pleasingly shiny and modern; the result of a recent refurbishment plan that will see all of the hotel’s 41 en-suite rooms be updated.

The shower caused quite a few giggles, thanks to the many different-angled sprays you could have on simultaneously; and the lighting was perfect for make-up application before hitting the town. We were tempted to snaffle some of the high-quality White Company toiletries but reminded ourselves that it was unbecoming behaviour for a four-star establishment!

The underfloor heating was a hit, too (padding around on bare feet on toasty tiles feels like the height of luxury, doesn’t it?) along with the fresh milk provided in the clever wall-mounted fridge for our morning cuppa. It’s the small touches that matter. The generously sized twin beds were marshmallow-squishy, without being too soft, and there was a perfect Dolly-sized (she’s a Labradoodle) space between them – not always the case in twin rooms.

For families: The hotel is on the ball when it comes to travelling with small people, providing everything from children’s cutlery to synthetic bedding for those with pesky allergies. The lobby and Dante Room have lovely, welcoming sofas for the whole family to set up camp on for a couple of hours and grab a game from the hotel’s selection – there’s a good choice of books too, in Kids’ Corner. Out and about, the National Railway Museum (the UK’s biggest transport museum) houses over 300 rail vehicles, including the striking red and gold Duchess of Hamilton, and a ginormous collection of cool railway posters. Hop on the Mallard simulator to experience a ride aboard the world’s fastest steam locomotive: there’s even a special ‘pod’ so the under fives don’t miss out. If you’ve got little ones who will be over sightseeing before it’s even started, a visit to Homestead Park, just half a mile away, is just the ticket. There are ducks, geese and lots of play equipment to keep them happy. The Grange has also partnered with the nearby Roko Leisure Club to offer a family day pass for a bargainous £11 (for two adults and up to two children). This includes access to the 20-metre swimming pool, spa and air-conditioned gym. Plus there are some lovely walks to be enjoyed along the banks of the river Ouse.

Wining and dining: The website’s claim that the 2-Rosette starred Ivy Brasserie is the best restaurant in York is no idle boast. Though the decor in the cellar dining space was a bit confusing for my personal taste, the dinner was absolutely first rate. Chef Will Nicol specializes in classic French cuisine fused with local Yorkshire produce and it was all wonderfully fresh and delicious. The memory of the Whitby crab and dill cakes still makes my mouth water. For those who can’t bear to be parted from the dog, there’s an option to have dinner in the lobby, but we left Dolly contentedly chewing on a venison chew stick in our room.

Highs: Not worrying about disapproving looks from fellow guests about our furry companion. The hotel’s doggy-friendly status meant we could relax fully.

Lows: Our rather-uninspiring view over the hotel car park, but someone’s got to to have it!

Verdict: If you like your hotels with a serving of unique personality and class, The Grange Hotel more than fits the bill.

An overnight stay costs from £99 per room (two sharing) including full English breakfast. Dogs are charged £20 per stay including a bed, bowl and handmade treats. www.grangehotel.co.uk; 01904 644 7440