The Night Watchers of York
Free Family-Friendly Sculpture Trail Across York City Centre.

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Posted on 16th October 2026

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A new band of guardians is set to take up residence across York this winter as The Night Watchers of York returns for its second instalment. Running from Saturday 30th January to Sunday 28th March 2027, this free, family-friendly outdoor sculpture trail invites residents and visitors to explore the city's historic streets and discover a brand-new collection of characters.

Organised by Make It York, the trail features nine bespoke sculptures stationed throughout York city centre. Each character draws direct inspiration from the centuries-old stone carvings and grotesques found on York Minster, weaving together folklore, nocturnal wildlife, and local heritage.

What to Expect Along the Trail 🗿✨

Designed for all ages, the self-guided trail encourages people to explore familiar shopping streets and hidden corners of the city in search of the new guardians:

• 9 Unique Guardian Sculptures: Each sculpture features its own distinct personality, backstory, and dedicated position in the city centre.
• Minster-Inspired Artwork: Custom creations celebrating the craftsmanship and architectural heritage of York Minster's iconic stone grotesques.
• Free Trail Maps: Physical printed maps can be picked up at the Visit York Visitor Information Centre on Back Swinegate starting 25th January 2027.
• Self-Guided & Accessible: Walkable around central York at your own pace, perfectly combining a day out with shopping, cafes, and historic sightseeing.

"We’re pleased to see the trail return, creating a free and accessible experience that gives everyone even more reasons to explore York. We aim to bring engaging new ways to support York’s visitor economy during the winter months, encouraging visitors to discover the city's heritage, attractions, food scene and shopping streets all over again."

See a New Side After Dark 🌙🔮

While the sculptures can be fully enjoyed during daylight hours, daylight fading creates a completely different atmosphere along the route:

• Light-Reflective Details: Selected sculptures feature special reflective elements and details that emerge vividly under streetlights and lower light.
• Evening Exploration: An ideal early-evening stroll to pair with a meal or drink in York city centre.
• Nocturnal Stories: Themes of nightfall, local folklore, and hidden details brought to life through evening lighting.

Photo Gallery

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Plan Your Visit 📅

Essential visitor details for following the sculpture trail:

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Admission & Maps

100% Free to explore. Trail maps are available to collect from 25th January 2027 at the Visit York Visitor Information Centre (28 Back Swinegate, YO1 8AD).

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2027 Event Dates

• Running: Saturday 30th January – Sunday 28th March 2027
• Accessible 24/7 throughout the city centre streets.

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Dog Friendly

As an outdoor street trail across public pedestrian areas, dogs are welcome to join you along the entire route.

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Accessibility

Located across flat, paved public streets in central York. Accessible for pushchairs and wheelchair users.

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Visitor Tip

Try walking the trail twice—once during the daytime to catch all the intricate stone-carving details, and again after dusk to experience the light-reflective details and ambient atmosphere!

Getting There 🗺️

📍 Visitor Information Centre Location:

28 Back Swinegate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 8AD

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🚆 Rail & Public Transport

York Railway Station is a 10-minute walk from the city centre trail locations. Frequent Park & Ride bus services connect outer car parks directly with central drop-off points.

🚗 Driving & Parking

City centre car parks include Marygate, Castle Car Park, and Q-Park Shambles. Using York's Park & Ride services is recommended during busier weekends.