York secures Purple Flag accreditation for evening safety and vibrancy
Fifth consecutive year recognised for well-managed night-time economy
Last updated 10th Jun 2026
York has been honoured with Purple Flag accreditation for the fifth year running, celebrating its status as one of the UK's safest and most welcoming evening destinations.
Purple Flag is an internationally recognised accolade, awarded to towns and cities that offer vibrant, safe, and well-managed evening and night-time economies.
After a rigorous assessment earlier this year, York successfully met all criteria across five key themes.
Independent assessors toured the city, engaged with partners, and observed the bustling evening economy firsthand.
They noted York's effective collaboration featuring local policing, Street Angels, York BID Rangers, Night Safe Officers, Taxi Marshals, and Riverside Marshals, praising partnership working as a main strength.
York BID leads the Purple Flag accreditation process in the city.
Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at York BID and Purple Flag Co-ordinator, commended the collective effort of organisations, businesses, and volunteers in creating a safe and enjoyable city centre.
The assessment highlighted York's hospitality, culture, heritage, and city living, detailing independent businesses, attractions, and initiatives like improved snickelways, public art, and street furniture as factors contributing to a vibrant city experience.
Jen Stockwell, Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector for York Inner, recognised the achievement as reflecting York's strong partnership approach, ensuring public safety while supporting a welcoming environment.
Councillor Jenny Kent of City of York Council praised York BID, local businesses, and community efforts that uphold York's evening appeal and safety.
Several initiatives, such as the York BID Safety Network, PubWatch, Best Bar None, and Respect Not Regret campaign, were noted for contributing to York's success in securing the award.
Looking to the future, partners aim to expand on initiatives supporting family-friendly activities and investing in public spaces as York continues its growth as a leading evening destination.
Purple Flag is awarded by the Association of Town and City Management, providing international recognition for destinations successfully managing night-time economies.