By Lizzie Simpson
I love nothing more than a girls weekend away with my friends, long catch-ups, great food, a little retail therapy and somewhere beautiful to return to at the end of the day. My pick this month for a girls weekend away is The Granary, a stunning converted barn just outside York that’s perfect for a relaxed girls’ getaway filled with shopping trips, cocktails and evenings unwinding in the hot tub.
Why Lizzie Chose It
For me, The Granary ticks all the boxes for a fun and effortless weekend with friends. It’s close enough to York for spontaneous shopping trips, brunches and cocktails, but far enough away to feel peaceful and private when you return home.
With five stylish ensuite bedrooms, a large open-plan living space, and a hot tub waiting outside, it’s the perfect base for a group looking to spend time together, whether that’s exploring the city by day or enjoying cosy evenings in with music, wine and good conversation. It’s everything you want from a girls weekend away near York
Property Snapshot
Sleeping up to twelve guests across five beautifully designed bedrooms, The Granary blends contemporary style with the character of a converted barn. Upstairs you will find five ensuite bedrooms, including a spacious family-style room with four single beds and a luxurious roll-top bath – a real sleepover feel.
Downstairs, the light-filled open-plan living space is made for socializing, with a sleek modern kitchen, large oak dining table, comfy sofas, wood burner and a Sonos music system for setting the perfect weekend soundtrack. Outside, the courtyard garden and hot tub provide the ideal setting for evening drinks under the lights.
If you are planning a getaway with a slightly smaller group, there are also additional properties right next door. The Farmhouse and The Dovecote Barn each sleep up to eight guests, offering the same high standard of interiors, thoughtful design and countryside setting. Both having modern luxuries with rustic charm, featuring spacious open-plan living, a stylish kitchen, cosy log burner and its own outdoor terrace with hot tub. For even larger groups, these properties can be booked alongside The Granary, allowing bigger groups to stay close together while still enjoying their own space, ideal setup for a girls weekend away near York, giving everyone their own space while still feeling sociable.
Lizzie’s Itinerary
Friday: Arrival & Hot Tub Catch-Ups
After arriving at The Granary and choosing bedrooms, the weekend begins instantly with a glass of something bubbly in hand. The open-plan living space makes it easy for everyone to gather together while someone pops music on.
Dinner will be something simple, or even external catering arranged in advance to make the first evening effortless. Later, it’s straight outside to the hot tub, the perfect way to start the weekend with laughter, catch-ups and a glass of prosecco under the evening lights.
Saturday: Shopping & Cocktails in York
Saturday is all about heading into York for a day of exploring. After a slow breakfast at the big dining table, it’s a short drive into York, a treasure trove of cafes, shops and history. From wandering the Shambles, to mooching through boutique and highstreet shops, with the occasional coffee stop along the way, I highly recommend ‘SOPHiE’ for a coffee overlooking the River Ouse.
Lunch at SORA for Sushi and Wine on their rooftop bar looking over York’s sky line (DJ’s and Saxophone player on a Saturday evening) is a must for the ultimate girls weekend.
Returning back to The Granary, the evening becomes the highlight of the weekend, music playing, BBQ going, and soaking in the hot tub.
Sunday: Slow Mornings & Countryside Walks
Sunday mornings are best enjoyed slowly at The Granary. Coffee, comfortable sofas and a relaxed breakfast before heading out for a gentle walk across the surrounding farmland.
With acres of countryside on the doorstep, it’s the perfect way to end the weekend, promising to plan the next girls’ trip soon.
Lizzie’s Local Recommendations
- York city centre for boutique shopping and historic streets
- SORA for Sushi and Wine on the Rooftop bar
- Walk the Shambles Street
- SOPHiE Cafe for a pick me up
- Treat the group to a private Spa afternoon with Laura King – 10% off using the code YORKSHIREESCAPES2026
Have your own Girls Getaway Near York at The Granary
Planning your own girls weekend away near York? Gather your friends, buy the prosecco, and let York provide the joy.
