The Tommy Treebark Trail & Giant Grass Animals.
🐾 York’s Wildest Summer

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Tank with an explosion behind it at Yorkshire Wartime 2026, a family friendly military show in Doncaster, Yorkshire this August 2026Graphic of two cute animals part of the 55 animal trail to hunt forin York, free summer family fun.

Posted on 19th April 2026

If you’re looking for a reason to head into York this summer, we’ve found the perfect excuse. The city is transforming into a giant urban safari, and we’ve got the inside track on the two big trails that will keep the kids entertained for hours (without costing you a penny!).

Here is what you can look forward to for Summer 2026:

🌳 Tommy Treebark’s Wild Adventure

The headline event in York is the Tommy Treebark Trail. Tommy is a fictional woodland guardian who has "hidden" his animal friends all over the city to keep them safe.

  • What is it? A massive scavenger hunt featuring 55 unique Yorkshire animals. These aren't just posters; look out for beautifully hand-painted benches and hidden sculptures tucked away in shop windows, gardens, and near the city walls.
  • How To Join In: You can grab a physical trail map from the Visit York Information Centre. It’s a great way to see the city’s historic sights while the kids are busy hunting for the next animal.
  • The Reward: As well as the free family fun, once you’ve spotted enough animals, head back to the visitor centre to claim a "Trail Master" sticker.

🦒 The Return of the Grass Animals

They’ve become a York summer staple, and we are thrilled to see the Giant Grass Animals returning to the city’s squares. These massive topiary-style sculptures are the ultimate photo op.

Keep your eyes peeled at these main hubs:

  • Parliament Street: Home to the giant Topiary Elephant and the Lion pride.
  • St Sampson’s Square: Where you’ll find the towering Giraffes and the huddle of Grass Penguins.
  • Eye of York: Hosts a few of the larger wandering beasts near the Castle Museum.

🍦 Relax in the Summer Seating Zones

York can get busy in the summer heat, but the city is rolling out several "Green Oases"—temporary seating areas with artificial grass, deckchairs, and picnic tables. Many are located by the Grass animals.

🕒 When is it happening?

The Tommy Treebark Trail and the Giant Grass Animals will be in place from 10th April to 30th September 2026. This means you can enjoy the trail and the sculptures throughout the entire summer, making it perfect for school holidays or a weekend city break.

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