Ghosts in the Gardens
York's biggest free trail discover the ghostly sculptures.
Posted on 4th September 2026
From Saturday 19th September to Sunday 1st November 2026, 70 ghostly sculptures will begin appearing across York city centre in gardens, on balconies, along the city walls, and in some rather unexpected places!
This year's Ghosts in the Gardens trail is set to be the biggest yet, featuring 70 translucent wire-mesh sculptures scattered across more than 30 city locations. The trail is completely free to explore, making it a fantastic autumn walking activity for families, visitors, and photography lovers.
Created by local artists using wire mesh, these strikingly detailed sculptures appear almost translucent during daylight, blending seamlessly into York's historic architecture and verdant green spaces.
Trail Highlights 👻📍
Key features of the 2026 Ghosts in the Gardens experience include:
- 70 Sculptures Across 30+ Locations: Discover monks, Roman soldiers, Victorian figures, and historical characters placed in scenic spots across York.
- Brand-New Ghosts Joining the Trail: Look out for fresh, unseen sculptures added to the lineup alongside familiar figures from York's past.
- Completely FREE: Walk and explore the entire outdoor trail at your own pace without buying a ticket.
- Don't Forget to Look Up! Many figures are perched high on historic walls, balconies, and rooftops above street level.
- Pick Up a Free Trail Map: Collect a physical printed trail map from the Visit York Information Centre on Parliament Street to track down every ghost.
Looking for an Evening Ghost Adventure?
Experience these ghostly figures in a whole new light after the sun sets! In November, Museum Gardens hosts Ghosts After Dark—a ticketed atmospheric evening event featuring illuminated ghost sculptures, atmospheric lighting, projections, smoke effects, and spooky soundscapes.
Discover Ghosts After Dark in York →Photo Gallery 📸
Plan Your Visit 📅
Practical information for exploring the Ghosts in the Gardens trail:
Admission & Maps
COMPLETELY FREENo tickets or bookings required. Pick up a free trail map from the Visit York Information Centre or download a digital copy online.
2026 Trail Dates
19th September – 1st November 2026
• Times: Accessible during daylight garden and park opening hours daily.
Family Friendly
Suitable for all ages. Children will love hunting for figures across city parks, riverbanks, and pedestrianised streets.
Accessibility
Most sculpture locations in public gardens, city streets, and Museum Gardens are fully accessible on paved, flat pathways.
Visitor Tip
Start your trail in York Museum Gardens, where a high concentration of ghosts can be found near the ruins of St Mary's Abbey.
Getting There 🗺️
📍 Trail Map Pick-Up Location:
Visit York Information Centre, 21 Parliament Street, York, YO1 8SG
🚆 Train & Public Transport
York Station is a short 5–10 minute walk from main trail entry points like Museum Gardens and the city walls.
🚗 Driving & Park & Ride
York's Park & Ride services (Askham Bar, Rawcliffe Bar, Monks Cross, Grimston Bar, Poppleton Bar) provide quick bus links direct to the city centre.
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