After spending the summer watching over York’s streets, green spaces, riversides and iconic landmarks, The Watchers of York are returning home for one final appearance together.
From 3 to 13 September 2026, visitors will have the rare opportunity to see all twelve Watchers sculptures reunited at a Final Gathering in the magnificent surroundings of York Minster’s Chapter House before they move on to their permanent homes.
Produced by Make It York in collaboration with York Minster, the Watchers are inspired by the medieval stone carvings that have watched over the Minster for centuries.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Chapter House, surrounded by centuries of craftsmanship, stained glass and architectural heritage, the Final Gathering offers a fitting finale to the trail.
Whether you’ve spent the summer searching for every Watcher or are discovering them for the first time, this special exhibition celebrates the creativity, storytelling and community spirit at the heart of the trail.
Join us for the closing chapter of The Watchers of York story and experience the guardians gathered together one final time before they begin the next stage of their journey.
Event details:
- The Watchers of York Final Gathering
- Dates: 3 – 13 September 2026
- Venue: York Minster, Chapter House
Last chance to take a Watcher home
The Final Gathering also marks the final opportunity to bid for and own one of the Watchers sculptures. Visitors to the Final Gathering will have the chance to view the complete collection one last time before bidding closes on Thursday 10 September 2026, with proceeds supporting charitable causes.
Place a bid and take home a lasting piece of York’s newest trail at: visityork.org/watchers-auction
City-wide trail ends this Monday
Throughout the summer, the sculptures have delighted residents and visitors as part of the city-wide trail, encouraging people to discover York from a fresh perspective.
The Watchers of York trail remains on display across the city until 31 August 2026. Free trail maps are available from the Visit York Visitor Information Centre at 28 Back Swinegate.
END
PRESS RELEASE: 27 August 2026
NOTES TO EDITORS
- The Watchers of York hub page: https://visityork.org/watchers-trail
- Please note, standard York Minster admission applies for entry to the Final Gathering.
- York Minster opening hours:
- Mon – Sat: 9.30am – 5pm (last admission 4pm)
- Sun: 12.45pm – 3.30pm (last admission at 2.30pm).
- These opening hours are subject to change – check the York Minster website for the most up to date information.
