A storied hotel where history meets distinctive hospitality

The Crown Hotel in Boroughbridge, a true gem of English hospitality nestled along the historic Great North Road. Dating back to the 16th century, this time honoured inn has long been a sanctuary for travellers making the arduous journey between London and Edinburgh. In its earliest days, it was part of a stately home belonging to the influential Tancred family, whose ties to the Tudor court placed Boroughbridge firmly on the map.

But it was in the 18th century, during the golden age of coaching, that the Crown truly came into its own. With up to 100 horses stabled on site, it became one of the great staging posts of the north, echoing with the clatter of hooves and the calls of coachmen. The hotel’s strategic position meant it welcomed everyone from merchants and mail carriers to the aristocracy, seeking both rest and refreshment within its sturdy stone walls.

There is even a whisper of intrigue, during the tumultuous Rising of the North in 1569, when Catholic nobles plotted to overthrow Queen Elizabeth I, the inn is said to have played host to hushed conversations and secretive meetings. And in the centuries that followed, the Crown remained a vital hub, not just for travellers, but for the local community, hosting grand balls, civic events, and important gatherings.

As the coaching era waned with the advent of the railway, the Crown adapted. The 20th century brought fresh life, including a handsome ballroom and modern comforts, allowing it to continue welcoming guests with a touch of grandeur.

Today, the Crown Hotel stands as a proud Grade II listed building, its heritage preserved, its heart still warm. Walk through its doors, and you step into centuries of stories, comfort, and character and a living reminder of Britain’s golden age of travel.