Visitor number figures affirm city’s reputation as ‘world-class’ destination

York welcomed nine million visitors in 2023, an increase of 2.2% compared to the previous year in 2022.

From these visitors, an estimated 1.3 million were overseas visitors.

These figures were released by the city’s destination management organisation, Make it York, which says the statistics are a testament to the resilience of the tourism industry and the effectiveness of the organisation’s strategies to attract visitors.

It adds that tourism contributed £1.82bn to York’s visitor economy, with a direct visitor expenditure of £1.2bn.

The highest proportion of spend was on York’s shopping scene at £411m, followed by food and drink at £332m.

The biggest increase in spend was on the city’s accommodation at £309m, up 12.4% compared to 2022.

Make it York notes that a total of 16,017 full time equivalent jobs in York are supported directly and indirectly by tourism.

Sarah Loftus, managing director of Make It York, said: “Make It York is pleased to reaffirm our commitment to showcasing the city as a premier, world-class destination.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we remain dedicated to driving collaboration and continuing to focus on further elevating the visitor experience and sustaining our upward momentum.”

Mark Mattinson, Visit York Members’ Advisory Board and general manager at The York Dungeon, said: “It is really encouraging to see such positive news.

“This is a great reflection of how hard every member of Visit York works in continuing to deliver an amazing welcome to York’s visitors, and in turn reinforce our reputation as a world class visitor destination.”

Dr Brendan Paddison, chair of York Tourism Advisory Board and associate professor at York St John University, added: “It’s clear from the latest data shared by Visit York that York’s tourism sector is thriving.

“This is reflective of the incredible work our tourism and hospitality businesses do on a daily basis to ensure York truly is one of the best destinations to visit for both visitors and residents.

“This success is built on genuine collaboration across the sector with key agencies and tourism businesses working together to ensure York’s tourism sector continues to thrive.”