Newby Hall and Gardens in Ripon, North Yorkshire, is set to launch its most ambitious sculpture trail yet with the debut of Newby25 on Friday, 20 June. The exhibition will showcase more than 60 sculptures created by 27 nationally and internationally acclaimed artists.
The trail will weave through the estate’s formal gardens, ancient woodland, and orchard, highlighting a wide range of artistic styles and mediums. This year marks the first inclusion of sculptures within Newby’s award-winning gardens, which recently earned a gold medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for their display inspired by the National Collection of Cornus.
Among the participating artists are kinetic sculptor David Watkinson, blacksmith Katie Ventress, and stained glass artist Janet Fraser, who have collaborated on a unique piece for the trail. The exhibition also features works by celebrated British wildlife sculptor Hamish Mackie.
Orlando Compton, curator of Newby25 and member of the family that owns Newby Hall, described the event as the largest and most ambitious in the trail’s 19th bi-annual edition.
He emphasized the harmonious blend of contemporary art and the natural beauty of the historic gardens, noting the diverse materials used—from finely crafted bronze to repurposed steel, glass, stone, and resin. Each sculpture has been carefully positioned to engage with the surrounding landscape, creating a dynamic dialogue between art and nature.
The exhibition will be previewed for VIP guests on Thursday, 19 June, before opening to the public from 20 June through 28 September 2025. Admission to Newby Hall and Gardens includes access to the sculpture trail.
