Record numbers of stags and hens are set to descend into York in 2023 outstripping hotspots such as Budapest and Barcelona, a major industry figure has said.

Last Night of Freedom argues that in recent years York has emerged as a major pre-wedding party destination, particularly with brides.

While bookings have more than doubled since 2019, the city’s new reputation has proved to be controversial.

Local Labour MP Rachael Maskell argued that revellers were causing “devastation” to the historic city.

Meanwhile, exclusive new figures show that York’s popularity with stags and hens is only set to continue.

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Matt Mavir, founder of Last Night of Freedom, said: “Krakow, Budapest and Barcelona are always immensely popular with stags and hens – yet in 2023, York looks like it will take around twice as many bookings as all of them.”

Since then, the Tyneside company has organised over 45,000 trips across the planet.

Mr Mavir stresses that York has enjoyed an “astronomical” rise in popularity, linked largely to the city’s boutique bars and instagrammable appearance.

Currently, the city is the firm's eighth most popular hen party location, in a portfolio that stretches from Blackpool to the North Pole.

However, York City Council has revealed it is launching a stag and hen party guide to try and steer groups away from all-day drinking sessions.

Ms Maskell has previously called for a special zone in the city to help separate revellers from locals.

The Labour MP continued to argue of the impact Airbnb properties, often used by stags and hens, are having on local families.

In a recent debate in parliament, she said families were “being hemmed in by party homes” adding that “dread gips the community” when visitors arrive on Friday.

Mr Mavir argues that York is only going to become more popular with groups he estimates bring between £5 to £10 million each year to the city.

He added: “Our early booking figures for 2023 show York is not only going to remain incredibly popular with stags and hens but that it will be the busiest summer yet.”

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“Stags and hens aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, however, the overwhelming majority are well-behaved and cause no issues whatsoever.

“The groups we send to York tend to be respectable professionals – teachers, nurses and often parents – who are not treating a weekend away as a chance to embark on a rampage.

“They simply want somewhere scenic to enjoy a few cocktails with their best friends, not tie each other to lampposts.”