Ice sculpture trail returns to city centre

This year's trail will explore more than 2,000 years of York's history

Frozen sculptures will tell the story of York's 2,000-year history as the city's annual ice trail returns for the ninth year this weekend.

Each artwork is sponsored by a local business and is hand-carved by specialists Icebox.

In addition to the 30 sculptures there will also be ice carving demonstrations in St Sampson's Square throughout the weekend.

Tourist organisation Make it York said the free event attracted 67,000 visitors in 2024 and claimed 87% of those visited the city specifically for the trail.

Sarah Loftus, managing director of Make It York, said the "stunning ice creations" would transform the city.

"We can't wait to see the incredible artistry and imagination that will bring the Origins theme to life."

Middletons Hotel is among the businesses sponsoring a sculpture this year and will see its grounds transformed into the Sweeter Side of Life display, with four artworks reflecting the city's links with chocolate and the hotel's heritage as a hospital and almshouses dating back to the 17th Century.

Organisers say the trail attracted more than 60,000 visitors in 2024

Greg Pittard from Icebox said: "Our team of talented artisans worked closely with Make It York and partners to craft custom ice sculptures that reflect their unique vision, making this York Ice Trail an exceptional one that guests will talk about for years to come."

The trail runs from 10:30 GMT until 16:00 GMT on Saturday and Sunday.

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here.