Most people have a mental checklist for things that make a pefect weekend away: great food, authentic pubs, a variety of attractions and activities and a refreshing walk to counterbalance the indulgence. And there’s a little market town in East Riding of Yorkshire that ticks all those boxes and more, with visitors describing it on TripAdvisor as ‘nicer than York’.
Reporter Stephen Topping recently reported back from his two-night sojourn in Beverley, the historic market town in Yorkshire, staying at the historic, AA Rosette-winning Beverley Arms Hotel. This five-star establishment, dating back to 1794, is nestled in the Georgian Quarter at the northern end of Beverley’s bustling town centre.
The hotel offers free parking for guests, is manned by friendly staff and features beautiful, characterful rooms that brim with thoughtful extras — from complimentary slippers to packets of traditional sweets.
Inside the ‘feature room’ at the Beverley Arms Hotel (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Relaying his stay at the period location, Stephen described their ‘feature’ room as snug and inviting, with a super king size bed, regency-style sofa, and an opulent bathroom boasting a walk-in shower, separate bath, underfloor heating and heated mirror – allowing for post-shower grooming.
The hotel looks out over the majestic St Mary’s Church, a structure dating back to 1520, and is only a short stroll away from Beverley’s rich history. The nearby North Bar, the town’s impressive historic gateway, dates back to 1409.
In the opposite direction lies Market Place, the bustling heart of the town. Every Saturday, traders fill the square with an array of hidden treasures.
Outside the Beverley Arms Hotel (Image: Manchester Evening News)
And the charming town has plenty to offer throughout the week, too. The town centre essentially follows one long ‘high street’, including Market Place, and is lined with a mix of independent shops and cafes, chain stores and luxury retailers. The abundance of pubs in the town centre is a particular draw, with the bustling and busy Green Dragon and the unique Monks Walk Inn must-visits.
Beverley is the ideal size for a weekend getaway, offering plenty to explore. Beverley Minster, a stunning Gothic church larger than many English cathedrals, has a fascinating history, having served as a sanctuary for centuries. A thought-provoking exhibition currently hosted at the Minster explores how this role continues today, supporting individuals from around the globe who are compelled to leave their homes.
Champney Treasure House is another intriguing attraction, housing both an art gallery and local museum. With free admission, it’s the perfect size to showcase fascinating exhibits while being compact enough for a quick weekend visit.
The town also offers picturesque walking routes, including Beverley Westwood, a beautiful pasture west of the town centre that’s popular with dog walkers. Visitors in the Spring and Summer may see the cows that typically graze there during the warmer months. Beverley Beck, a charming canal east of the town centre, is situated opposite the modern Flemingate shopping centre and is well worth a visit.
The bustling Saturday Market (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Reporting on his stay further, Stephen was keen to express how good the food at The Beverley Arms Hotel was, serving delicious meals in contemporary settings to both guests and locals. A full cooked breakfast each morning, freshly prepared in the kitchen, set them up for exploring the town, while a continental buffet offering toast, croissants, fruit and cereal was also available.
Later in the day, there’s hearty fare including Thwaites beer-battered fish and chips, accompanied by mushy peas and tartar sauce, and a classic burger topped with mature cheddar, served alongside fries and a zesty tomato chutney.
Desserts are good too, with sticky toffee pudding and warm chocolate brownie and ice cream among the favourites.
From left: Beverley Minster and the town centre (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Stephen was a guest at the five-star Beverley Arms Hotel, located on North Bar Within, in Beverley, East Yorkshire. He stayed in a ‘feature room’, which included breakfast.
Prices fluctuate, but for the weekend of March 7-9, the room is priced at £250 per night. Other rooms, varying in size, are also available.
The hotel is dog-friendly, welcoming pets in its ‘terrace rooms’ that come with patios. Free parking is provided for guests on a first-come, first-served basis.
Both Beverley Minster and Champney Treasure House offer free entry, though donations are gratefully received. The weekly Beverley Saturday Market runs from 9am to 4pm. Additionally, the more compact Beverley Wednesday Market operates on both Wednesdays and Saturdays.