Impossible Motel York Exterior photoImpossible Motel York Exterior photoImpossible Motel York Exterior photo
Reserve directly with us
up to 10% cheaper
than with Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From267US$ /night
Check-in
31May2026Select date
Check-out
01Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

5 Saint Helen'S Square, York, United Kingdom, YO1 8QN
-
Steps from the Historic Old Town
Great
8.2
8.6
/10
1.0
/5

Amenities

Impossible Motel offers themed rooms that provide a distinctive stay experience in York. Each room features unique decor inspired by various pop culture references, enhancing guests' enjoyment. The hotel provides well-equipped common areas for relaxation and socializing.

Rooms

The hotel includes creatively designed rooms, such as the Pirate Room and the Space Room, each with its own theme. Room amenities consist of comfortable bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and air conditioning for convenience. Guests can choose from multiple configurations that suit their preferences.

Location

Located centrally in York, Impossible Motel is easily accessible from major attractions like York Minster and the National Railway Museum. The hotel serves as a convenient base for exploring historic sites and local eateries. Public transportation options are within walking distance.

Dining

The hotel features a lounge area where guests can enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages. Local dining options are available nearby, offering a taste of York's cuisine. Restaurants and cafes within a short walk provide diverse culinary experiences.

Entertainment

Guests can take advantage of a game area that features classic board games and card games for entertainment. The hotel is located near entertainment venues such as theaters and live music locations. A vibrant nightlife scene awaits in the surrounding streets.

Highlights

Location: Centrally located in York

Rooms: Themed accommodations including Pirate and Space Rooms

Dining: Lounge area with snacks and beverages

Entertainment: Game area with board games

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll along the Shambles, a medieval street with charming shops.
  • Try a Yorkshire pudding at the local favorite, The York Roast Co.
  • Visit the Museum Gardens for a peaceful afternoon and lovely views.
  • Explore the Jorvik Viking Centre for an immersive history experience.
  • Don't miss the local market on Saturdays for fresh produce and crafts.
View all

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
Experience Windowless Basement
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Superb
2 persons
140 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Bank Vault Windowless Basement
2 persons
185 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Spectacular
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Adults only
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment

Room features

  • Heating
  • Patio
  • Terrace

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Impossible Motel Location

5 Saint Helen'S Square, York, United Kingdom, YO1 8QN
Map view
5 Saint Helen'S Square, York, United Kingdom, YO1 8QN
Nearby
Church
York Minster
1600 ft
York YO1 7HBEngland
York City Walls
1400 ft
Museum
Jorvik Viking Centre
1200 ft
Museum
York's Chocolate Story
200 ft
Church
St Wilfrid's Catholic Church
1400 ft
St. Anthonys Hall Peasholme Green
Quilt Museum and Gallery
1500 ft
Event hall
Merchant Taylors Hall
900 ft
12 Clifford St
The York Dungeon
1500 ft
Square
Kings Square
100 ft
Public Building
York Guildhall
1600 ft
York YO1 8BL
St. Crux Parish Hall
600 ft
Goodramgate
700 ft
Shopping Area
Stonegate
1000 ft
Event hall
Saint William's College
1000 ft
Square
Saint Helen's Square
1400 ft
Gallery
York Art Gallery
2000 ft
St. Leonards Place
De Grey Rooms And Attached Gates
1800 ft
Event hall
York Mansion House
200 ft
9 St. Sampsons Square
The Roman Bath
600 ft
Restaurants
The Cornish Bakery
300 ft
29-30 Colliergate
Middle Feast
200 ft
23 Lendal
Cafe Lendal
200 ft
23 Lendal
Appleton's
200 ft
19 Lendal
Baileys Cafe and Tea Rooms
700 ft
7 Museum Street
The Old Bank
400 ft
6-12 Lendal
The York Roast Co
300 ft
78 Low Petergate
The Drawing Board Cafe
600 ft
10 New Street 10 New Street
Costa
500 ft
13A Museum Street
Luxury Ice Cream Co
700 ft
20 Back Swinegate
Explore York
Explore York's Treasures
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
York Minster
York Minster
6 minutes' walk
York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, boasts stunning stained glass and fascinating tours year-round.
Jorvik Viking Centre
Jorvik Viking Centre
5 minutes' walk
Jorvik Viking Centre offers a unique insight into Viking life through immersive exhibits and a thrilling underground ride.
York Castle Museum
York Castle Museum
9 minutes' walk
York Castle Museum presents fascinating historical exhibits in a restored prison with living history experiences.
York Museum Gardens
York Museum Gardens
9 minutes' walk
York Museum Gardens features beautiful gardens with historic ruins and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
Rowntree Park
Rowntree Park
20 minutes' walk
Rowntree Park offers lush green spaces, a children's play area, and scenic lake views, perfect for family picnics.
York's Chocolate Story
York's Chocolate Story
1 minute' walk
York's Chocolate Story invites visitors to learn about York's chocolate heritage with interactive tastings and guided tours.
Goddards House and Garden
6 minutes' drive
Goddards House and Garden features stunning gardens and historical tours, providing a peaceful retreat from city life.
Yorkshire Wheel
Yorkshire Wheel
15 minutes' walk
Yorkshire Wheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of York, making it a thrilling experience for sightseers.
The Cornish Bakery
The Cornish Bakery
1 minute' walk
The Cornish Bakery serves delicious pasties and pastries in a casual atmosphere, perfect for a quick, hearty meal.
Middle Feast
Middle Feast
1 minute' walk
Middle Feast offers vibrant Middle Eastern cuisine with vegetarian options and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for sharing.
Cafe Lendal
Cafe Lendal
1 minute' walk
Cafe Lendal presents a relaxed dining experience with a variety of café favorites, including gluten-free options.
Baileys Cafe and Tea Rooms
Baileys Cafe and Tea Rooms
3 minutes' walk
Baileys Cafe offers a charming ambiance with a selection of teas and homemade cakes, perfect for afternoon relaxation.
Jacobs Well
Jacobs Well
10 minutes' walk
Jacobs Well features a lively pub atmosphere with regular live music events and traditional craft beers for a fun night out.
York Theatre Royal
12 minutes' walk
York Theatre Royal hosts various performances from drama to comedy, offering an engaging experience for all ages.
The Press
5 minutes' drive
The Press is a vibrant bar and music venue offering weekly events and a fantastic nightlife atmosphere for adults.
York Dungeon
10 minutes' walk
York Dungeon provides an entertaining and educational experience with live actors and thrilling rides based on York's dark past.
Getting around
City Centre
York3 min  ·  700 ft
Airports
Leeds Bradford (LBA)75 min  ·  30.8 mi
Doncaster Sheffield (DSA)94 min  ·  38.8 mi
Train
York Railway station8 min  ·  2000 ft
Bus
Bus stop8 min  ·  2000 ft
Unlock Early-Bird Deals
Grab Exclusive Rates Instantly
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:00
Check-out
from 05:00-11:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Spanish, Dutch, Romanian, Turkish, Hindi
Number of rooms:
13

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Impossible Motel is often praised for its perfect central location, convenient for exploring York and accessing nearby car parks and restaurants. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's quirky and unique design. Many find the rooms spacious and the beds comfy. Some guests in basement rooms have noted a musty smell.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 844 verified reviews
8.0/10
Great
76%
Recommend
Location
9.6/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.2/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Comfortable bed
Elegant decoration
Modern twist
Complimentary tea and coffee
Cons
Small room
Weird smell
Poor lighting
Guest reviews
based on 844 reviews
8.0/10
based on 1390 reviews
8.2/10
Zoe from United Kingdom
Couple
Splendid
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 11, 2026
9/10

Quirky Design and Central Location

helpful staffbeautiful designideal location
The location is ideal. The staff was very helpful and friendly. The overall design of the hotel and rooms is beautiful. I appreciated the access to the bar next door.
I noticed a slight chip on the furniture in the room. Otherwise, everything was in good order.
Rooms
9/10
The room featured a huge, comfortable bed. It included a well-kept bathroom with modern fixtures. The quirky design added character to the space, and all amenities were in good working order.
0 Helpful
|
Show less
reese from united states
Couple
splendid
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 06, 2026
9.5/10

quirky and clean stay

comfortable beddouble bathscented soappoor sound proofing
the bed was very comfortable. the double bath was great! i found the complimentary scented soap a lovely touch. coffee and pastries in the morning were also nice.
the sound proofing was not good. i could hear noise from other rooms!
Facilities
9/10
the hotel provides complimentary coffee and pastries each morning. a pink bar is accessible directly from the hotel, offering a discount on cocktails. these services enhanced convenience .
Location
10/10
the hotel has a fantastic central location near the city. the ivy restaurant is nearby for dinner, and betty's is close for breakfast. this positioning simplified dining and exploration.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Ava from United Kingdom
Couple
Red Room Windowless First Floor Bath Two
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 05, 2026
9.0/10

ABSOLUTELY fantastic!

excellent locationhelpful staffgood touch
The location was excellent, offering easy access to many attractions. The staff were helpful (I talked to them a lot!). The complimentary pastries and coffee each morning were a good touch. I especially liked the handmade soap and White Company toiletries provided. WHAT a treat!
The street noise was slightly noticeable at times.
Dining
9/10
The onsite bar and restaurant offered a pleasant atmosphere, providing convenient options for drinks and meals. Complimentary warm pastries and coffee were available in the morning, a simple yet appreciated service. It made starting the day easier (and tastier!).
Service
9/10
The staff were very helpful and did their best to accommodate requests. They were knowledgeable about the area, offering useful information. The team's friendly approach added positively to the overall stay.
Facilities
9/10
The trendy room design added to the overall experience. The bed was comfortable, ensuring restful sleep. The hotel's central location allowed easy access to city attractions.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Michael from United Kingdom
Couple
bank vault windowless basement
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 26, 2026
6/10
good locationcramped bathroomlow water pressure
the location was good.
The bathroom felt cramped. It was difficult to even turn around in there. the shower had almost no water pressure. the air conditioning unit smelled bad when i tried to use the heat (i just turned it off).
0 Helpful
Reese from Canada
Couple
Labyrinth Windowless Basement Two Baths
2 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 11, 2026
9.5/10

a sensual getaway

moody atmospherecomfortable bed
I adored the dark, moody atmosphere it had an very nice vibe. i stayed in the labyrinth room it was the best room i've ever stayed in, it had an enormous comfortable bed. the pair of baths were amazing. I fit nicely.
Facilities
9/10
This lodging provides distinctive rooms that create a unique atmosphere. The themed designs contribute to a nice experience. the motel included a bar plus a restaurant with a decent menu. the aesthetic added to the overall charm.
Location
10/10
the motel had an excellent location, so the train station and the town centre are within walking distance. it is close to the shambles. this is definitely beneficial wanting easy access to nearby facilities!
0 Helpful
|
Show more
oscar from sweden
Single
red room windowless first floor bath two
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:December 30, 2025
9/10

charming stay with really good service

convenient locationfriendly staffbar discountnoise disturbance
the location was very convenient, close to the train station. the staff were helpful and friendly . i used a 10% discount for residents at the bar, a good perk.
i found some noise disturbance late at night into the early morning since the hotel is attached to a bar.
Dining
9/10
the impossible restaurant had a decent menu with really nice food. there was a good variety of options available for both dinner and drinks. i found the quality of the ingredients to be high.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Victoria from United Kingdom
Couple
Bank Vault Windowless Basement
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 17, 2025
6/10
comfy roomsmall bathroomtoilet cistern
The room was clean and comfy.
The bathroom was very small. Turning around inside was hard. The sink positioned on top of the toilet cistern was also not ideal.
0 Helpful

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
31May2026Select date
Check-out
01Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room