We absolutely loved our stay at this tiny Hocus Pocus-themed hotel in York! Every little detail was so thoughtfully done – from the decor to the magical touches throughout the room, it truly felt like we’d stepped into a whimsical world. Everything was spotless and so well looked after. The location was smack bang in the centre of town, which made exploring York super easy. We ate at Valhalla, the Viking-themed restaurant right next door, and it was hands-down one of the best meals we had on our trip. The atmosphere was amazing and the food was absolutely delicious – definitely a must-try if you’re staying here (and the 10% discount from the hotel is a nice bonus!). If you’re after something fun, unique, and full of character, this place is a total gem.

Just a small note – as the name suggests, it is a tiny hotel, and we did find the space a little too compact for our liking. Something to keep in mind if you prefer more room to spread out – but if you’re expecting a cosy, themed stay right in the heart of York, it definitely delivers on charm!

Location was great, the ambience was amazing and attention to detail in the theme was great. Easy self check in and lots of instructions from the owners as to how to get in out etc, plus great advice on local shops restaurants etc the Yorback luggage storage recommendation was particularly appreciated

The lack of windows wasn't ideal but I totally understand why it isn't possible. The bar next door was loud until about midnight and the blind didn't come down enough to block out all light. Also the fridge periodically made a very loud electrical noise that went in for a while then stopped.

The bed was fantastic in my room. I loved all the solid oak wood features, the painted ceiling and wall sconces really matched the overall theme perfectly. The spooky green light in the bathroom was a great addition. The location is perfectly located in the Shambles within a short distance to the city centre so it was great for me travelling solo that I didn’t have too far to come and go especially in the evening. Access to the building was very simple with both codes texted and emailed on the day. I felt very stay staying here.

A note is that if you’re after a super peaceful and quiet stay this might not be the place as there is the super cool Valhalla next door that does often have live music and a fair amount of foot traffic passing by. However if you wanted to immerse yourself into the full witchy York and ghostly vibe then this will be a hit.

If you are going there for the vibes, then this is the place to go. My friend and I booked this hotel for our annual Halloween getaway. it was absolutely gorgeous decorated in the most spooky way. A very unique experience. We had so much fun staying here.

If you are looking for comfort and a good night sleep, this might not be the best option. Bed was very low and quite uncomfortable and based on where our room was we could hear people outside. We didn’t mind too much having stayed there only one night. The hotel is certainly more decorative rather than built for comfort which I think is fine based on what it is.

The hotel was in a fantastic location, perfect for exploring the heart of York. It was cosy and comfortable, equipped with everything we could need (and more), and it's clear that the hosts - though not present on site - really care about the guest experience. They've obviously listened to past feedback (see next paragraph), they provide some lovely home comforts, the room was clean, felt secure and safe, and there were video instructions for using any of the less magical technology in the room. My only concern had been occasional reviews noting that the room we were due to stay in was a bit hot and stuffy, but on arrival we found a powerful air cooler. It was definitely needed, as we were very warm otherwise, but was so effective that we didn't need to worry. Everything else we could need was provided, the bed was comfortable, and the music playing in the main entry hall during daytime hours (it stopped at 8pm) was a beautiful touch creating extra atmosphere for even more magic! It's worth saying that we live within two hours of York. We visit once or twice a year for day trips, and have no trouble getting to York and back in a day. We've seen most of York's main attractions in the past. For us the hotel was an optional extra, chosen for its theming. In short, it was money we didn't need to spend. But, very much worth the extra spending because this hotel is an experience itself, regardless of anything else you do in York - though we very much enjoyed a witch-themed tour whilst in the city, and a late night walk along Shambles to experience the street in darkness.

There's nothing I didn't like.

The hotel is right in the middle of York City Centre, so everything is in walking distance. It is next door to Valhalla, which is perfect for me.

It can be loud at night, with noise from outside, however after a day in York, and how comfortable the room was, it was easy enough to fall back to sleep. The lack of parking is an issue, and in future it may be of benefit for the owners/managers to secure a parking contract somewhere, or secure some land to allow parking?

Amazing hotel absolutely loved it. Prime location in York city centre. Stayed in the librarium room and felt as if I was transported back in time. The atmosphere in the hotel is something special. The entrance is by code and I preferred this. Enchanted music playing in the hallway added a nice touch when walking to room. Just fantastic .

Nothing at all . I was hoping to meet a resident ghost but unfortunately not this time that’s my only disappointment haha.

Loved how quirky it was. Lots of detail as soon as you come to the front door. The beds were all really comfortable.

Noise!! It’s located very close to a bar and nightclub which was very loud all through the night which resulted in some of our party getting no sleep pretty much for the duration of our stay. The hotel provide earplugs which did help a little but these are uncomfortable when your not used to wearing them.

Loved this hotel and will definitely be back. Our room was the apothecary room and was big enough for the 5 of us. Plenty of space. Would book this room again . Bonus having a window as it was hot weather and rooms can be warm. Our only issue is we would of liked the stairs lights on for our arrival as it is a set of steep stairs into the room and was pitch black. Trying to find all the light switches for each corner of the room was funny.

Such a lovely quirky hotel with beautiful rooms and a great location very close to the centre. Felt like travelling back in time but with all the modern essentials included. The decor was exceptionally well thought out with some lovely touches. A great place to take kids who like Harry Potter.

There were ear plugs provided and they were needed. There is a bar opposite and as it was weekend it was very noisy and stayed open until very late, so we really didn't sleep much. I would advise going mid week as it might be quieter.