York’s new sculpture trail has launched this week – with 12 striking sculptures celebrating “heritage, creativity and community”.
Produced by Make It York in collaboration with York Minster, The Watchers of York is inspired by the carved grotesques high above York Minster.
The Watchers are protective characters connected to different parts of York’s story. Each has its own personality and purpose, reflected in the location it calls home. Some watch over the rivers, others guard green spaces and gateways, while several keep an eye on the city’s historic streets.
The trail, which launched on Monday 29 June, will run until 31 August 2026.
Using detailed digital renders of historic stone figures, designers have developed four-foot-tall sculptures for the trail. Each sculpture is individually designed and painted by a diverse mix of established artists, charities and art students.
Free trail maps are available to pick up from the Visit York Visitor Information Centre.
Throughout the Watchers of York trail, each sculpture will be available to bid on through an online silent auction, giving visitors, businesses and supporters the chance to take home a unique piece of York’s cultural story.
Bidding will remain open throughout the trail, allowing you to follow your favourite sculpture and place bids as the guardians watch over York across the summer.
The auction will culminate at the Watchers Final Gathering at York Minster, where all of the sculptures will come together for one final appearance before bidding closes on Thursday 10th September 2026.
Whether you’re looking for a striking piece of public art, a memorable addition to your home or workplace, or simply want to support the future of cultural projects in York, this is your chance to become part of the Watchers story.
The 12 watchers are located all across York city centre – can you spot them all?
Find out more about the Watchers, their guardianship, and the artists and creators behind the sculptures at the Visit York website.
Take a look at some of the spectacular sculptures below…
