I have to keep my flights...but we're going to add an extra day onto London on the back end...and stay only 2 nighs in Edinburgh, 2 nites in York...
Any suggestions for areas/places to stay in York?

"<i>I have to keep my flights..</i>"

You can keep your current flights and still fix the split London problem.

Book a flight to EDI 4 or so hours after your LHR arrival. You'll probably get up to Edinburgh by mid afternoon and then can sensibly do Edinburgh, the York, then finish up in London.

ttt

janis - she said upthread the first hotel is not changeable, so I've been working on that assumption, though I agree your plan is much more sensible if possible!

Just an endorsement for the night train one way and day train the other. A highlight of our first trip some years ago was the Night Scotsman to Edinburgh.

SO GLAD you changed your theater tix. We also travel from California, and I *can't imagine* being able to attend a performance same day as arrival. We are always complete wrecks that first day.

Yes Janis and Jent103, the only reason I can't fly up to Edinburgh after landing in London is because I'm on a special friends and family deal at our hotel that only allows for the days I have right now...I even tried to extend and they wouldn't do it. :(
Ann, I like the idea of a night train on way and day the next...I'll look into the Night Scotsman.
Thanks All!

Oh - sorry, I missed that the hotel was unchangeable . . .

I did a trip to Edinburgh last summer if you want to look at my trip report.

I thoroughly recommend upgrade to first class on the train. Standard is fine, don't get me wrong, but 1st class really added to the fun and probably saved money as you get 2 meals, snacks and all drinks (including alcohol if you want it) included. It's only £15 to upgrade. Plus lots more space and comfort and very attentive staff looking after you.

sorry, I mean on the Edinburgh/london leg. Or vice versa.

It's only £15 to upgrade. Plus lots more space and comfort and very attentive staff looking after you.>

Whilst I agree on first class being a world of difference better than Standard Grade trains in the U K - much more difference than on Continental trains the 15 quid upgrade I believe is only available on certain trains and not all - not sure but think you have to check out which trains let you upgrade once on board or just before the train.