York Trailblazers
1 August - 30 September 2024 🪲
Brought to you by Make It York and York Civic Trust, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Embark on an enchanting journey along our magnificent sculpture trail, set to transform the heart of our city. For summer 2024 only, discover the vibrant display of awe-inspiring Tansy Beetle sculptures, each one a unique tribute to the remarkable individuals who have shaped York's history.
Known as “The Jewel of York”, the endangered Tansy Beetle has been chosen as the emblem of the Trailblazer project, reflecting its special status as a York resident with its riverside habitat along the banks of the River Ouse. The Tansy Beetle’s perseverance mirrors the rich history of York’s trailblazers who have made significant impacts locally, nationally, and globally.
40 community groups and over 1000 schoolchildren have participated in this amazing project, delivering 150 workshops that have helped uncover the inspiring history of the trailblazers.
While some of the sculpture artwork may only be on display for a few weeks, the Tansy Beetle itself and a digital record of the artwork will continue to celebrate York’s Trailblazers.
▸ Completed the trail? Don't forget to pop into the Visitor Information Centre to pick up your sticker! Plus, the first 100 people to complete the trail will get a seeded bookmark!
▸ Follow Visit York for the latest updates on York Trailblazers!
Trail Leaflet & Map ▸
Download the trail map, your essential guide to uncovering all the sculptures and diving deeper into the fascinating stories of the York Trailblazers. For the cycling route, click here.
Tell Us Your Feedback ▸
We would love to hear your feedback on the York Trailblazers Project. Complete the survey to share your thoughts on our most recent trail and stand a chance at winning one of twenty £25 gift cards!
Meet the York Trailblazers ▸
Explore all 17 York Trailblazers, discover how they influenced York's history, and learn about the artists who brought their stories to life.
Meet The Artists ▸
Get to know the talented artists behind the sculptures and see how they artfully integrated the trailblazers' lives onto the Tansy Beetle.
Audio Guides ▸
Immerse yourself fully in the trail with our free audio guides. Discover the inspiration behind the sculptures and learn about how these incredible people of York made history.
Trail FAQs ▸
What is the York Trailblazers Trail? How long will the trail take to complete? What will happen to the sculptures? And more FAQs!
CRESCENGO - The Jewels of York ▸
CRESCENGO - The Jewels of York, created by SLAP Collective, is a mobile experience where you collect hidden jewels and discover York's history while immersing yourself in its vibrant sounds and stories.
Metalwork Creations ▸
Learn more about Tom Springett of Metalwork Creations, the production company behind the beetles, who bring a rich background of metalwork that has seen an international audience.
Accessibility Guide ▸
We are committed to ensure our events are available for everyone to enjoy. Read our guide for more information on the accessibility of the trail.
Women and Diversity in Ancient and Tudor York ▸
An extra trail for those wanting to discover more inspiring women of York and the learn about the diversity of the city.
Discover the York Trailblazers: A Deep Dive into Their Stories ▸
This blog offers a deep dive into York Trailblazers sculpture trail, exploring the rich histories of Trailblazers like Anne Lister and W. H. Auden, and their lasting impact.