First look at York Ice Trail 2025

Get ready for a free weekend of frosty fun as York’s much-loved Ice Trail returns on 1 and 2 February!

The first glimpse hints at this year’s enchanting theme “Origins” and the creative storytelling that will transform York’s historic streets into an icy wonderland. 

The sculpture offers a first glimpse into York’s rich and iconic history, beautifully captured in a frozen masterpiece. From a Roman shield to a Viking helmet, it showcases the city’s 2,000-year past. A chocolate bar evokes York’s sweet legacy, while a drifting ghost embodies York’s most haunted status. A majestic, frosty train symbolizes the city's progress and adventure, and at the centre, a Yorkshire Rose blooms proudly. This frozen tableau seamlessly weaves together diverse symbols, each telling its unique story of York in the language of ice. 

Organised by Make It York, York Ice Trail is part of our commitment to facilitating world-class cultural and creative events.  

This year’s trail will feature 30 stunning sculptures, crafted by Icebox - the leading ice sculpture specialists in the UK and Europe.  

The dazzling ice sculptures will bring captivating tales to life. Each icy masterpiece tells a story of its own, from York’s rich heritage and moments of celebrations to creatures that lived long ago. 

On display will also be an origin block of ice – how each ice sculpture starts before Icebox’s team of professional ice carvers bring designs to life, creating the magnificent sculptures for York Ice Trail!  

Visitors can also experience the thrill of live ice carving demonstrations at St Sampson’s Square from 12pm, where expert sculptors from Icebox will transform raw blocks of ice into works of art before your eyes. 

Throughout the weekend, the beautiful grounds of Middletons Hotel will be transformed into ‘The Sweeter Side of Life’. It will be a family-friendly showcase of four ice sculptures including, ‘Sweet Like Chocolate’ - a spectacular ice sculpture dedicated to the heritage of the hotel’s Sir Terry Alms Cottages. You'll also find ‘The Ice Wall’ where you can ‘freeze’ yourself for that perfect photo moment. 

York BID have journeyed back 2.4 million years to the Ice Age. Five incredible animals, once thriving in the frozen era but now extinct, have been brought to life in stunning ice sculptures. What better way to honour these creatures of the cold than through dazzling ice art and to discover these frosty prehistoric wonders in York! 

Prepare to be amazed as York’s ancient streets come alive with frosty unforgettable stories! 

Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, said:   

“We’re so excited for the York Ice Trail weekend! With these stunning ice creations set to transform the city, we can’t wait to see the incredible artistry and imagination that will bring the “Origins” theme to life.  

We’re incredibly grateful to all the local businesses whose support makes the York Ice Trail possible. Their contributions are essential to bringing this beloved event to life, and we couldn’t do it without them. See you there!" 

Greg Pittard, Managing Director at Icebox, said: 

“We are so excited to be returning to York this year with 30 spectacular ice sculptures, each telling a different story. With years of experience and a passion for creating ice masterpieces, Icebox takes pride in turning ordinary gatherings into extraordinary experiences.  

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. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll thank us for this mesmerising experience!” 

All details can be found at visityork.org/york-ice-trail