Watchers of York sculpture trail launches with 12 artworks

The Watchers of York has launched today, Monday, June 29, drawing inspiration from the historic carved grotesques carved high above York Minster.

The trail has been produced by Make It York in partnership with York Minster.

York’s new trail features 12 sculptures called The Watchers of York, inspired by the carved grotesques high above York Minster. The trail has been produced by Make It York in partnership with York Minster,. (Image: Alex Dyett)

The sculptures, known as “Watchers”, are designed as protective characters linked to different aspects of York’s heritage. Each has its own personality and purpose, reflected in its location, from watching over rivers and green spaces to guarding gateways and historic streets.

Watchers of York sculpture trail launches with 12 artworks including this one – have you found it yet? (Image: Alex Dyett)

Every piece has been individually designed and painted by a mix of established artists, charities and art students.

Recommended reads:

York’s coolest spots to beat the heat – from ice cream boats to gelato bars

‘Ultimate sacrifice’: Tribute to North Yorkshire officer shot dead by fugitive killer

Meet York’s ‘sassy but sweet’ rescue cat Smudge who is looking for loving home

Organisers say each sculpture reflects a different facet of York’s identity, celebrating the city’s history, creativity and community spirit.

The trail has been produced by Make It York in partnership with York Minster. (Image: Alex Dyett)

The free trail will run until August 31, with maps available from the Visit York Visitor Information Centre. Visitors can also find details about each sculpture, its artist and location online via the Visit York website.

The Watchers Trail will be in York until August 31, with maps available from the Visit York Visitor Information Centre. (Image: Alex Dyett)

People are being encouraged to share their experiences on social media using @VisitYork.

York’s new trail is the latest cultural attraction to entice families into the city. (Image: Alex Dyett)

The launch follows a series of successful sculpture trails previously held in the city, including colourful city-wide art installations that have drawn thousands of visitors into the city centre and supported local businesses.

The new trail continues that tradition, offering another way to explore York’s streets while engaging with its stories and heritage.

Make It York’s purpose is to develop and promote the city and its surroundings, nationally and internationally, as a vibrant and attractive place to live, visit, study, work and do business.