Visit York Tourism Awards 2026: Winners

Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award

The mystery shopper said: “The York Dungeon delivers a highly polished, immersive and memorable visitor experience, driven by exceptional storytelling and a passionate, professional team. From the moment of enquiry to departure, service standards are outstanding, with strong accessibility provision and a clear commitment to constant improvement.

Highly Commended: Next Door But One

Award sponsored by Splendid Hospitality Group

Camping, Glamping, Holiday Park and Self Catering Accommodation of the Year

The judges said: “This was a strong, thorough and thoughtful application – a pleasure to review. Investment in the park and the unique stays offer has directly translated to growth. The team are proud of what they do and who they are, and have a clear focus on guest experience which runs through everything. They want to make a difference to guests, tourists, the environment and to work collaboratively across the city.”

Award sponsored by Yorwaste

Regenerative Tourism Award

The judges said: “MonkBridge House combines luxury, environmental responsibility and thoughtful guest care, making it a leading example of sustainable accommodation in York. Its exceptional blend of quality, innovation and sustainability delivers a five-star guest experience. The owners’ commitment to renewable energy, zero waste and local sourcing sets a benchmark in sustainable hospitality.”

Award sponsored by First Bus

Experience of the Year

The judges said: “This was a very strong entry with a lot of thought put into the business, which really stands out in the application. The business demonstrates a consistent and proactive approach to championing local businesses and supporting York’s tourism sector. The online presence is exceptional, captivating and utterly on brand - which really brings this magical brand to life”.

Award sponsored by LNER

Large Hotel of the Year

The Mystery Shopper said: “All the team members were customer-focused, friendly, enthusiastic and professional. The hotel had excellent facilities and our bedroom had lots of little extras. We were delighted by the thoughtful and quirky extra touches in the room that made us feel very welcome.”

Award sponsored by Streamline Taxis

Large Visitor Attraction of the Year

The mystery shopper said: “The dramatic visuals made the attraction feel high-quality and exciting. Every performer delivered exceptional characterisation, and the combination of costumes, makeup, effects and storytelling kept us fully engaged. The experience was well organised, immersive and accessible, with staff who were focused on creating a positive visit for every guest. It met the needs of its audience brilliantly and delivered exactly what was promised, an exciting, unforgettable adventure through York’s history.”

Highly Commended: Castle Howard & JORVIK Viking Centre

Award sponsored by Shambles Market

New Tourism Business Award

The judges said: “This is a creative and high-quality visitor attraction that adds something distinctive to York’s tourism offer. The immersive design, strong storytelling and excellent presentation create a memorable experience for a wide range of visitors. Accessibility and sustainability have been thoughtfully considered, particularly for a new business.”

Award sponsored by Studio YCS

Pub of the Year

The mystery shopper said: “the service at The Wenlock Arms was consistently warm and engaging, which made us feel genuinely welcome. The food was of excellent quality, beautifully presented, and clearly prepared with care using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The venue's ambience was elegant and cosy, creating a comfortable, inviting environment for families and couples alike.”

Award sponsored by Hunter Gee Holroyd

Retailer of the Year

The judges said: “A brilliant brand and story with a very clear focus on who they are and what their offer is, demonstrating excellent innovation and a collaborative approach. The mystery shopper praised “an eye-catching highly attractive shop both inside and outside, making it a pleasure to browse. The team members worked together seamlessly, I received warm and friendly treatment and I left the store feeling delighted with the entire experience.”

Highly Commended: York Gin

Award sponsored by York BID

Independent Business of the Year

The Mystery Shopper said: “This is an exceptionally strong, well-crafted experience that stands out within York’s visitor offer. From the first point of contact, communication is engaging, prompt and entirely on brand, setting expectations clearly and building excitement ahead of the visit. The experience itself is imaginative, energetic and expertly delivered, with a clear understanding of its audience and a confident sense of identity.  The Wizard Walk of York is an exceptional business, and York is very fortunate to have such a business.”

Highly Commended: York Gin

Award sponsored by York Cocoa Works

Small Serviced Accomodation Provider of the Year

The mystery shopper said: “The guest house is stunning, with luxurious, well-appointed and comfortable rooms. The breakfast was outstanding, with a focus on homemade items and local produce. Paul and Fiona were fantastic hosts, ensuring we had everything we needed. The guest house provides a thoroughly enjoyable, personalised and friendly stay in York.”

Award sponsored by Booking.com

Small Visitor Attraction of the Year

The mystery shopper said: “The attraction takes its natural heritage and important history into account. The natural beauty of the walk, the river, the well and the caves is stunning, and the team work hard to highlight this. Every area of the attraction was well maintained, clean and tidy, and all the team members we spoke to were helpful and attentive - we felt very valued as customers.”

Award sponsored by York and North Yorkshire LVEP

Taste of England Award

The Mystery Shopper said: “This was an outstanding experience in every respect. The venue is beautifully designed, creating a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. The food was exceptional in both quality and presentation, with every dish exceeding expectation. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable and genuinely friendly, contributing to a warm and professional service throughout.

Award sponsored by Fowlers

The Best of York Award

The Mystery Shopper said: “The attraction is expertly maintained, cleverly themed and continually evolving to enhance the guest journey. With its powerful engagement, operational excellence and community focus, driven by Mark, the York Dungeon stands out as a flagship attraction for the city of York and a worthy award contender across many categories.”

Award sponsored by York St John University

International Tourism Award

The judges said: “This is a creative and high-quality visitor attraction that adds something distinctive to York’s tourism offer. The immersive design, strong storytelling and excellent presentation create a memorable experience for a wide range of visitors. Accessibility and sustainability have been thoughtfully considered, particularly for a new business.”

Award sponsored by Expedia Group