Lifestyle: The Yorkshire guesthouses flying the luxury flag

‘STAYCATION’ has become a buzz word for holidaymakers deciding to forfeit sunnier climes for a break in the UK. Deputy Editor Ian Briggs reports on Yorkshire’s Finest Accommodation – a group both capitalising on the downturn and helping to promote tourism in Yorkshire – and experiences some of the luxury on offer.

IT’S nothing but a pleasure to arrive at 17 Burgate in the picturesque North Yorkshire town of Pickering.

Hidden away on a quiet backstreet, the elegant Georgian townhouse has been lovingly renovated by William and Pat Oxley into a luxury bed and breakfast.

Each ensuite bedroom of the building, which dates back to the 17th century, has been imaginatively interior designed by Mrs Oxley in a contemporary style.

Each sleek room has the latest high tech wizardry, including TV and sound system, while mood lighting and modern bathroom give rooms that touch of luxury today’s visitor call for.

Mr and Mrs Oxley, who previously ran the Five Rise Hotel in Bingley, West Yorkshire, are the epitome of relaxed hosts, with Mr Oxley happy to serve fine wines and engage in amicable chat with guests at 17 Burgate’s bar.

17 Burgate has won a raft of national titles with much of the acclaim being given for its use of local produce for its superb breakfasts and features such as plants and flowers throughout the premises.

As well as running the boutique premises, which is an ideal spot for exploring the market town and surrounding region (Helmsley, Sutton Bank and Whitby are all within 30 minutes drive), Mr Oxley was recently voted in as an Independent councillor in Pickering.

He has also been a driving force behind Yorkshire’s Finest Accommodation, a consortium of five star bed and breakfasts and guest houses established to promote tourism in the region, of which 17 Burgate is a member.

Since its launch earlier this year, YFA has grown boast to 46 members, with the newest members including the Angel of Hetton and The General Tarleton.

Establishments which have signed up to YFA are run by people keen to promote the quality of tourist destinations in Yorkshire and also aim to encourage visitors to increase both the length of their stay and the amount of times they visit the region.

Mr Oxley said he was pleased with progress of premises registering for the group.

He believes there are around 85 establishments which could join YFA across the region.

He said feedback from members had been positive with many receiving bookings through YFA.

“YFA does give people an amazing range of choice and there are many different types of property to look for,” said Mr Oxley.

“It really does range from grand royal palaces to working farms with everything in between.

“The key for us with YFA is that the venues distribute the brochures themselves and give them to people who want that kind of experience.”

On the recession and its impact on Yorkshire’s tourism industry, Mr Oxley said: “The general sense is that this year is better than last year.

“‘Staycation’ will get the credit. I reckon we’re two to 3% up on last year. The sense is that Yorkshire’s not doing badly.”