Hundreds of thousands of visitors from all corners of the globe are unable to resist the magnetic charm of a city that has become the jewel in the crown of this wonderful county of Yorkshire, and Diana Widdicombe, Company Director of York Holiday Homes, fully understands why.

“I was born and bred here in York, my family has lived here for many generations, my children were choristers at the Minster and I just love the place,” she said. “It has everything. An abundance of fascinating history, remarkable sights and breathtaking buildings, streets and alleys that suddenly make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

“And there are all the benefits of a thoroughly modern city too – York has a thriving restaurant, bar and theatre scene, lots of quality independent shops and plenty of family-friendly visitor attractions.”

As a traveller destination, the city sells itself. But something many visitors find frustrating is the lack of city centre self-catering accommodation, particularly that which offers on-site private parking. And that’s where York Holiday Homes really comes into its own. With 10 beautifully maintained homes, all located within a stone’s throw of the major sights, visitors can park up at their chosen cottage or apartment and spend their holiday coming and going on foot.

“It is quite rare to be able to find such central accommodation in York, especially with parking,” Diana added. “Lots of our guests return time after time because of the location of our homes. It’s so convenient to be able to pop in and out as often as you please rather than have to plan for an entire day out and factor in transport needs too.”

Some of the properties are within a one-minute walk from the Minster, and also the city’s most famous shopping street, The Shambles. Diana said: “At Turks Head Court, you’re literally next to the Minster. If you turn one way a snicket gives you direct access to it, and if you turn the other way you’re at The Shambles in under a minute.”

York Holiday Homes was established in the 1980s by Diana’s parents and has been run by the family ever since. Its parent company, the York-based Watkinson Shoes (also owned by the family) has a long heritage dating back to 1904.

She explained: “We built Turks Head Court specifically to let as holiday homes. As a family, we’d always stayed in self-catering accommodation and thought this would be a great way to develop a new arm of the business and offer holidaymakers something unique in the centre of the city.”

The complex is so-called because it was built on the site of an old inn called The Turks Head, and it lies within the part of York known as Aldwark. The development has won awards for its design and consists of one apartment and three attractive townhouses, which can be booked individually or as a whole to accommodate a group of 18.

The family then invested in a handful of other properties – two neighbouring country cottages, Mulberry and Lavender; the New England-styled 7 Granary Court, and a stunning Georgian townhouse in Monkgate.

Diana added: “Each offers something slightly different, but they are all high-grade buildings with quality fixtures and fittings, and they’re all fully equipped to create a proper home-from-home right in the heart of the city.”

Both cottages possess delightful courtyard gardens, featuring an adjoining gate in an archway in the wall between the two gardens. Diana said: “Mulberry and Lavender are a good option for two couples who perhaps would like to be co-located but still have their living space to themselves.

“We have a lot of repeat customers at the cottages, people love the way it feels as if you’re in a rural retreat despite actually being in the city centre. There are lots of birds and wildlife in the garden.”

This is thanks to the traffic management system in the Aldwark area and, while there are no vehicular restrictions on guests staying at the properties, road bollards prevent through traffic on the streets.

7 Granary Court is a spacious two-bedroom apartment with an American barn vibe. Diana said: “It’s modern but also comfy and relaxed and the décor is reminiscent of New England properties. It’s on the first floor and you access it via an external staircase at the side of the building, it’s a really unique build and we welcome dogs.”

The Georgian four-storey townhouse in Monkgate is available to rent as an entire property, or as three separate apartments. Guests never fail to be amazed by its spaciousness, with a whole host of period features creating a luxurious ambience. “It’s very popular with groups looking for somewhere to celebrate milestone birthdays or to host a reunion. We’ve had hen parties, as well as themed weekends such as a Great Gatsby style event, and even a murder mystery do,” said Diana. “People are always stunned by its marble fireplaces, huge sash windows, high ceilings, antique furniture and chandeliers.”

The house boasts a glamorous dining room to seat 15 people, as well as spacious drawing rooms where guests can mingle. Diana added: “Some groups hire their own chef and butler to really create that feeling of decadence. It’s like having your very own Georgian residence in the heart of the city! I know hen parties love to be able to lounge around together on a Sunday morning in their PJs, as the sitting rooms are large enough to accommodate everyone.

“These occasions are all about creating memorable experiences, and this place is absolutely perfect for that. I’ve passed by at night and seen the chandelier sparkling up through the window. It looks amazing, and it’s fabulous to see the house being used to its best potential in such a happy way.”

Guests new and old are always assured of a warm welcome from Diana and her team. She said: “We tend to get to know our guests as they do have a habit of coming back regularly! We offer as much or little assistance as people want, and are always only a phone call away. Naturally, we can advise on pretty much anything, from where to eat, things to do or see, to the nearest supermarket.” The attention to detail given to our housekeeping couldn’t be higher, with each member of the team taking the utmost pride in their work. Every home is immaculately clean and pristine, and always ready for its next occupants. Diana said: “This is a lovely business to be involved in, it’s a pleasure to be able to offer people holidays in York. I’m looking forward to welcoming even more visitors to this very special city.”