York's annual ice trail expected to attract thousands to city

Ice sculptures will be on display in York across the weekend

An annual ice trail through the streets of York is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the city over the weekend, according to organisers.

The event features dozens of frozen sculptures all reflecting the theme of "City of Dreams".

Each artwork is sponsored by businesses in the city and is hand-carved by ice sculpture specialists Icebox.

The trail was first held eight years ago, and organisers Make it York said it attracted 40,000 visitors last year.

Demonstrations showing how to carve ice into art are also due to be held at St Sampson's Square throughout the weekend.

Sarah Loftus, managing director of tourist organisation Make It York, said the ice trail was a "beautiful event" supported by both residents and visitors.

"Our ice partners, Icebox, have also done an incredible job at creating these ice sculptures and bringing the ideas to life," she said.

Make it York said 40,000 people visited the city's ice trail in 2023

This year's trail is sponsored by York Park & Ride and York Business Improvement District (BID).

Carl Alsop, BID operations manager, said: "This year York BID has five sculptures in the trail, all depicting well known mythical creatures.

"Whether you're taking a photo with our unicorn, or braving a selfie with the Kraken, it's sure to be a memorable weekend."

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