FAQs

What are Snooks?

Snooks are a new character for York designed by Yorkshire artist, Sian Ellis. Snooks are a bookish breed, often found in cosy corners with their faces buried inside the pages of a good book. They’ve been here just as long as even The Norman House (the oldest building in York) but they are a little more hidden away than the historic sights of the city that you are familiar with. However recently Snooks sightings have skyrocketed, and it looks like these friendly folk have been enjoying some sightseeing around the city walls.

How many sculptures will there be?

There will be 21 Snooks to find around York.

Are all the sculptures the same?

All the sculptures are the same base model, but they will all be designed by artists with different designs.

Where is the trail?

The trail will guide people around York’s cobbled streets and hidden gardens. The free trail maps will be available from the Visitor Information Centre on Parliament Street or can be downloaded online prior to the event.

Will the trail be accessible?

Make It York is proud to organise many free events and festivals throughout the year for residents and visitors to enjoy. We are committed to ensuring that everyone can participate, with access requirements in place to support with additional needs. You can view our accessibility guide here. 

How long will the sculptures be out for?

The sculptures will be available to see from 2nd March to the 22nd April 2024

What are the sculptures made from?

The sculptures are made from fibreglass for durability, Snooks will be available to buy at an auction after the trail.

Who painted the sculptures?

The sculptures are painted by UK artists.

What is the theme of the trail?

The theme of the trail is Yorkshire Stories, with the artists’ designs inspired by authors and stories of the city.

How long will the trail take to walk around?

The immediate City Centre trail will take around 2 hours, with sculptures further afield in addition to this.

What are the opening times for the trail?

The sculptures will be in place every day. Certain venues may have access restrictions on timings, these will all be displayed online.

Do I need tickets?

No, the Snooks trail is free to attend.

Why is a Snook Missing?

We hope this doesn’t happen however, if you find a Snook missing then we have taken it for repair. The trail is an extended period and as such we have factored in that some may become damaged. Our website and social channels will keep you updated of any Snooks that have temporarily been removed for repair.

What will happen to the sculptures after the trail?

The Snooks will be auctioned off, where they will go to their forever homes.

What will happen to the money raised at the auction?

The money raised will be split equally between York Creates Fund and St Leonard’s Hospice.

How will the money raised for St Leonard’s Hospice be spent?

The money raised will be spent to support hundreds of local people living with a life-limiting illness and bereavement. As St Leonard’s only receives 30% of its funding from the Government, it must raise nearly £8 million a year to run all its services including its specialist in-patient unit, Hospice@Home, Carer Support Service, Single Point of Coordination telephone service, bereavement support and wellbeing drop-ins. Its unrivalled care is only possible thanks to the generosity of supporters and initiatives such as the Sculpture Trail. You can find out more at stleonardshospice.org.uk.

What is the York Creates Fund?

York Creates Fund is a micro-fund that supports cultural and creative activity in the city. The York Creates Fund will provide opportunities for local creatives to produce new work through micro-grants, commissions and competitions. The fund will be held by Make It York and administered in reference to the objectives of York’s Creative Future, the city’s Culture Strategy.