The Bar Convent living heritage centre York
Stayed here this weekend whilst spending the night in York city centre for a hen party.As in the title, this hotel is actually a working convent, where nuns are currently residing in their quarter of the building. The rest of the hotel is for guests. This was a little unnerving at first when me and my friend entered as we thought we’d entered the wrong place, this is because it is also a museum also. However, we were kindly greeted by a lady on reception who lets us leave our bags in the storage room until it was time to check in (2pm).
When we came back for check in (we had already paid) so the lady on reception showed us up to our room gave us our key and pointed out the living room kitchen and launderette on the way, second floor. The hotel itself is very spacious with a lift in the building to make it more accessible. The rooms were spacious and clean with tea and coffee provided. There was a TV in the room and en-suite.Our room was a twin, they have doubles as an option, the bed was the comfiest bed I'd slept in in a long time!
Our view was of blossom street and micklegate bar (right opposite the premier inn). on the other side there was a private garden for residents to use, we visited this the next morning (Sunday). It had garden furniture and plants in variation. However, there was construction/scaffolding up which spoiled the view a little but other than that the garden was pretty and peaceful.Thee is also a little gift shop for the museum by the main entrance. When we got back late in the evening, the main entrance was locked but we were informed to use the entrance on nunnery lane round the side of the building, the key in which was provided.
Breakfast provided was a full English and a selection of cereal, toast and pastries as well as tea, coffee or juice. breakfast was from 8-10 with a very quick service.
I didn’t really see any nuns practicing however I think they were mainly based in the other part of the building deemed private.
Overall pleasant overnight stay, I would highly recommend. 4.5 stars.