Some of the best visitor attractions in the region have been revealed in the Visit York Tourism Awards 2025.
The event, now in its 27th year, took place last night at York Racecourse and covered 16 categories.
Castle Howard won two awards- the new Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award and the Large Visitor Attraction Award.
Judges praised the castle for its “detailed accessibility statements” and “everything being of the highest quality” with team members “keen to provide great customer service.”
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Stump Cross Caverns near Harrogate won Small Visitor attraction for being “much, much more than just an amazing attraction.”
York Gin won the new category of Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism encouraging others “to take responsibility too.”
National Treasures: Monet in York 'The Water-Lily Pond' won the Event, Festival or Cultural Experience of the Year award.
Judges praised it for encouraging a broader and wider audience to enjoy art and culture.
The Wizard Walk of York won Experience of the Year. Judges praised its “very strong entry for a great value and quality product reaching an increasing audience.”
Sandburn Hall won Large Hotel of the Year. Judges praised the family-business for a clear identity, living to its values, with a unique atmosphere. Working with local suppliers and attractions also showed commitment to Yorkshire.
Monkbridge House won Small Serviced Accommodation Provider for its “commitment to both guest experience and looking after staff.”
Elsewhere in accommodation, Camping, Glamping, Holiday Park and Self Catering Accommodation of the Year went to Wolds Edge Holiday Lodges.
Judges said they were “100% impressed with the high quality and detail” in multiple visits.
The Bloody Tour of York won Independent Business. Judges said the “storytelling is immaculate”. It is also “unique, and with a very strong reputation, the tour seems to go from strength to strength.”
Retailer of the Year went to Avorium, with judges praising their “thought, creativity and business and brand understanding.”
The Riverfront York won New Tourism Business for “exceptional service, community involvement and commitment to continual growth.”
City Cruises York won Best of York. Judges noted its “strong local partnerships and memorable river cruises.”
The Taste of England Award went to The Whippet Inn. Judges praised the modern dining experience in a historic building adding “the quality of the food is exceptional.”
The Pub of the Year was won by the Drovers Arms Restaurant & Country Pub. Judges cited a friendly buzz, welcoming atmosphere and “a business that cares about all aspects of the business.”
Now in its second year, the Hospitality Hero Award was won by Juliana Ene, from Delta Hotels by Marriott York, which recognises the individual's commitment and hard work in their field.
Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, said the winners “exemplify excellence, innovation and dedication to their craft and passion.”
She added: “Their achievements set a benchmark for success and inspire the entire industry, not just within York but beyond the region.”
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