Ghosts in the Gardens & Ghosts After Dark – York 2025

About

York’s ghostly tradition continues as Ghosts in the Gardens returns from 19th September 2025, bringing over 40 eerie wire mesh figures to some of the city’s most iconic green spaces. Organised by York BID in partnership with Unconventional Design, this year’s trail promises even more ghostly surprises, from haunting Victorians to mischievous medieval characters – all cleverly sculpted from narrow gauge wire mesh and tucked into York’s public gardens, walls, and historic courtyards.

Why Visit?

This unique open-air experience blends public art, local history and the supernatural in a way that’s perfect for families, day-trippers and heritage lovers alike. Whether you’re spotting ghosts with little ones or taking a quiet stroll through York’s oldest gardens, there’s something magical about seeing these ethereal sculptures appear unexpectedly around corners and on rooftops.

With new figures for 2025 and expanded locations, Ghosts in the Gardens has grown into one of York’s most recognisable autumn events. Maps are available from the Visitor Information Centre on Parliament Street to help you find every spooky character hiding in the hedgerows, behind old walls, and perched in surprising places.

What To Expect

• 45 haunting wire mesh ghost sculptures placed across York’s gardens and historic locations
• Brand-new additions for 2025 including a Georgian Stone Mason and Tudor Executioner
• Free to explore and open daily across all locations from 19th September
• Expect historic characters from Roman soldiers to Victorian chimney sweeps, highwaymen, Vikings and more

Entry

Dates: 19th September – Early November 2025
Cost: FREE – no ticket required
Trail Maps: Available from the Visitor Information Centre on Parliament Street

Plan Your Visit

The trail is open to everyone and can be enjoyed at your own pace. Most locations are accessible all day, every day, with others open during venue hours. Highlights include York Museum Gardens, Clifford’s Tower, The Shambles, and Merchant Adventurers’ Hall. Many ghosts are visible from the street or garden paths, while others are tucked within spaces like St Olave’s Church or Holy Trinity Church on Goodramgate.

Some ghosts are visible from the Bar Walls or external viewpoints, such as Grays Court Hotel and Fishergate Postern Tower. Opening hours vary slightly for venues like Treasurer’s House (Saturday to Wednesday, 11am–4pm), Merchant Adventurers’ Hall (10am–4pm), and Holy Trinity Church (Wednesday to Sunday, 11am–4pm), so it’s worth planning accordingly.

Entry is free at all locations, and no pre-booking is required. Visitors are encouraged to explore during daylight hours to make the most of the experience, but many of the ghosts remain visible after dark for those on a twilight stroll.