Derby and York -- Places to stay and eat

The Minster Hotel York was our small hotel in York. It was perfect for our visit to York. Location was great, not far from the city and several restaurants. Free parking was available behind the hotel in a secure location. Our room was spacious and very nice. Hotel staff was friendly and helpful. Breakfast was extra with a choice of a great buffet or full English breakfast. We were very happy with the buffet. Checking in, I had help with our heavy luggage upstairs to our room, since I have a back problem.
While in York, we had a wonderful meal at Cafe No. 8 Bistro. We were staying nearby at the York Minster Hotel and had dined at a nearby pub that was good, but wanted more. TripAdvisor had this one down with excellent reviews, so we gave it a try. The food was excellent. The restaurant is not fancy, but clean and comfortable. However, they excel where it counts, the dining.

Thanks for these suggestions. I looked them both up online and they look great. I will probably book a room at the hotel.

If you’re into afternoon teas, Betty’s is popular. Believe there are 2 in York.

We recently stayed at a lively B&B called Alhambra Court, a short walk from the Shambles. Spacious rooms in a lovely Victorian building. The staff were so friendly and helpful - highly recommended.

Southlands Guest House is wonderful! Ron and Nicole will ensure that you have a memorable holiday. Their recommendations for restaurants were spot on, and their help with other aspects of our visit was invaluable.

Thank you for these suggestions. I will definitely look into them. I'm assuming they are all for York.

Yes, Southlands is in York.

We liked our stay at No.21 York B&B. Convenient to train station and sightseeing in town. The breakfast was the most sumptuous we’ve had anywhere. Safe travels.

Thanks for all of the suggestions for York. I've got a lot to look at. I guess Derby isn't a big tourist destination??

In York, we stayed at the Abbey Guest House, 13-14 Earlsborough Terrace. It's a B&B listed in the RS book. Short. easy walk from the train station, with luggage. Great location along the river to walk to the downtown area of York in 10-15 minutes. Quiet area. Good breakfast.

You're right Derby isn't a big tourist destination! I used to live there and can tell you it's a mid sized industrial city with very little (if anything) to detain the tourist. Chatsworth house to the north and Kedleston Hall on the outskirts are about the only reasons to go anywhere near Derby. Must you stay there? I often use Alasdair Sawday's Special Places to Stay recommendations when travelling. Here are his picks for Derbyshire/Leicestershire Sawdays

Ashbourne, to the north of Derby on the edge of the Peak District might make a decent base.

Hope this helps
Jacqui (Skyegirl)

Thanks for this perspective and suggestions, Jacqui. My husband has an interest in Wright of Derby, so we are going there to see his paintings in the local museum. I'll look into the alternatives you mention for staying in the countryside in the area.

jaimeelsabio in post 3 refers to two Betty's in York. The main one is on St. Helen’s Square and is always busy, often with long queues. BUT you can prebook afternoon tea and avoid these.
https://www.bettys.co.uk/bookable-afternoon-tea

The other branch is on Stonebow. It is smaller but less busy.

If you want completely different accommodation in York, think about the Bar Convent on Blossom Street, just outside the city wall and close to the railway station. It is the oldest surviving Roman Catholic Convent in England and does B&B as well as having a very good cafe serving reasonably priced food. It is definitely a 'hidden gem'.
https://www.bar-convent.org.uk/

Thanks for both pieces of information...staying in a convent sounds intriguing!