Supporting our local community
For centuries, the York Merchant Adventurers Company have placed charity at the heart of their mission.
Since the late 14th century they have supported those in need through the Company’s tradition of giving and community care. Today, that spirit is alive and well as the Company supports a range of charitable initiatives across York.
Supporting York's pensioners
The Company of Merchant Adventurers recognises the efforts of those who helped establish the city as a hub for trade and commerce. It has supported with pride, since 1373, those who once traded in the city. Continuing this charitable tradition today, the Company provides pensions to 13 local people.
This historic trust also supports and welcomes senior visitors with fully accessible facilities, concession entry and year-long admission.
Shaping the future through history
Embracing centuries of mercantile heritage to inspire future innovators, entrepreneurs, and thinkers.
Using the Company’s rich history to develop and support educational and enterprise initiatives, the Merchant Adventurers are helping to mould a future built on curiosity, creativity, and opportunity.
Supporting our Armed Forces
The Company proudly enjoys long-standing affiliations with units of all three Armed Forces and their Cadet organisations.
The Hall is proud to play host to a wealth of events and award evenings for the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force.
Tankard Awards
The annual Tankard Awards take place in our historic Hall - an important event in the Company’s calendar as we recognise the vital and continuing contribution made to society by those serving in the Armed Forces and Cadets.
Commanding Officers from the following Units nominate recipients for a Merchant Adventurers’ Tankard, recognising individuals for outstanding contributions in their various roles:
HMS Dragon (Royal Navy)
A Daring-class Type 45 Destroyer specialising in advanced air and missile defence for Royal Navy task groups
Yorkshire Universities Royal Naval Unit & HMS Explorer
Developing leadership and maritime skills in Yorkshire universities undergraduates through Navy training and experience
York Sea Cadets
A youth organisation providing young people with naval-themed training, leadership development, and community opportunities
The Yorkshire Regiment
The British Army’s only county-named regiment, delivering frontline infantry capability across armoured and rapid-deployment operations
Army Cadet Force (Yorkshire North & West)
Offering young people aged 12+ adventure, leadership training and personal development through military-inspired activities
Yorkshire Universities Air Squadron
Introducing university students to the RAF through flying training, leadership development, and adventurous training
110 City of York Squadron Air Training Corps
One of the UK’s leading RAF-supported youth organisations, developing confidence, skills, and leadership in young people aged 12–17
RAF Fylingdales
The UK’s primary Space Surveillance station, operating around the clock to provide ballistic missile early warning and satellite tracking.