YORKSHIRE businesses have returned to the region from a prestigious national tourism ceremony with an array of excellence awards.

Businesses from across the county were shortlisted in eight out of a total 18 categories at the Visit England Awards of Excellence awards on Monday (April 23). They ended up taking four of the top awards.

The event - a traditional afternoon tea at the Bath Assembly Rooms – names gold, silver and bronze winners in each category.

Rudding Park in Harrogate won gold in the prestigious Hotel of the Year award, while Yorebridge House in Leyburn was named Boutique Guest Accommodation of the Year.

York Chocolate Story picked up gold in the Guided Tour of the Year award, while York Visitor Information Centre clinched the top spot in the Visitor Information Provider of the Year award.

Miller’s Fish and Chips in Haxby – which earlier this year was named best in the UK at the National Fish & Chip Awards – won silver in The Taste of England award.

The Bruce Arms in West Tanfield near Ripon – a former winner of Yorkshire’s Favourite Pub – was named bronze in the Tourism Pub of the Year category, while Cottage in the Dales and The Grand Hotel & Spa in York were shortlisted for Inclusive Tourism Award and Inbound Tourism Award respectively, and both took home bronze awards on the day.

Sir Gary Verity, Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “I’d like to extend my congratulations to all the very worthy winners! It’s absolutely fantastic to see that so many amazing businesses who proudly fly the flag for Yorkshire have been recognised at these prestigious awards.

“The people behind these businesses put an enormous amount of effort into making theirs the top destinations in the country and it’s great to see this effort rewarded.

“For Yorkshire businesses to win these the awards is a huge achievement and I hope this encourages many more visitors to come and explore our magnificent county!”

The Visit England Awards of Excellence, now in their 29th year, recognise, congratulate and celebrate businesses and individuals who go above and beyond in promoting and practicing excellence across England.