Milner Award 2025
A week of celebrations honouring the hotel’s namesake, culminating in a 1940s-inspired soirée and the launch of The Milner Award
The Milner York has marked its first anniversary with a week of vintage-inspired celebrations, closing with a spectacular 1940s-themed Anniversary Evening.
The event crowned Milner Week (13th – 17th October) – a series of nostalgic activities and exclusive offers inside the hotel, that invited locals, guests, and visitors to step back in time and share in the hotel’s milestone.
The grand finale brought together community figures, local partners, and supporters for an evening of celebration, in the heart of York.
Guests were welcomed with signature serves in partnership with York Gin, before enjoying a three-course dinner with a one-time-only 1940s-inspired menu, accompanied by live music from That Old Swing Thing.
Milner Awards Team
A key moment of the night was the presentation of The Milner Award – a new annual accolade recognising an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to the community of York. This year’s winner, Eleanor Bryson from Visit York, was presented the award for her tireless dedication to championing the city. Often working quietly and humbly behind the scenes, Eleanor truly embodies the spirit of York.
In keeping with the spirit of William Milner’s courage and compassion, the evening also supported St John Ambulance, the hotel’s nominated charity for 2025.
The occasion was attended by the Lord Mayor of York, who praised The Milner York’s contribution to the city’s heritage and hospitality sector, commenting:
‘My experience at the Milner has been one of genuine welcome and outstanding service. Establishments like the Milner remind us why York is renowned for its rich heritage’
Milner Lord Mayor
Reflecting on the success of the week, Andy Barnsdale, General Manager at The Milner York, said:
“Marking our first anniversary since rebranding has been a tremendous milestone for the hotel. It’s been a week that celebrated not only York’s history, but also the dedication of our team and the support of our local partners.
“Milner Week has truly brought the community together, and I am grateful to everyone that came along to celebrate with us”
The event marked the close of Milner Week, during which the hotel was brought to life with 1940s-inspired touches – from vintage games and retro sweets in the lobby, to a specially curated anniversary cocktail menu, and guest giveaways.
The celebrations were designed to honour the legacy of station foreman William Milner, who heroically lost his life during the Baedeker raid of 1942 while rescuing vital medical supplies.
Since its rebrand in 2024, The Milner York has continued to go from strength to strength, achieving record guest satisfaction, improved service scores, and exceptional team retention – reflecting a renewed spirit of excellence rooted in its proud heritage.
