New art trail premiers at York Gate Garden

On Friday 4 September York Gate Garden welcomed almost 100 guests to a special preview evening of their inaugural art trail, featuring stunning photos of the garden by local photographer Samuel Booth, capturing the beauty and character of this historic Leeds garden. The art trail will be open to the public until 1 November 2026.

The exclusive preview, held last Friday, gave guests the opportunity to explore the garden after hours, enjoying a glass of fizz and canapés while discovering Sam’s collection of photographs inspired by York Gate.

A passionate gardener and photographer, Sam has volunteered at both York Gate and Harewood House. His photography has also played an important role in his own journey following a brain injury, helping him to find positivity and express his experiences through his work.

Visitors can now enjoy the York Gate Garden Art Trail, which runs throughout the garden during normal opening hours. With photographs displayed around the garden, the trail offers a unique opportunity to see York Gate through his eyes and discover new perspectives on its distinctive garden rooms and planting.

Prints of the photographs are available to order, while visitors can also browse the garden’s gift shop and plant sales, providing the perfect opportunity to take a little piece of York Gate home.

The Art Trail runs from 5 September to 1 November 2026, 10am - 4pm, during normal garden opening days. Standard admission fees apply.

Steve Roach, Gardens Development Manager at Perennial, said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Sam for our inaugural photography exhibition. His passion for York Gate and the journey he has been on is inspiring, and it has been wonderful to see his photographs bringing a fresh perspective to the garden. We hope visitors will enjoy discovering his work as much as we have.”

Photographer Sam Booth said:

“I feel truly honoured to exhibit my work at York Gate and deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me. My love of gardening began on my grandad’s allotments and grew through volunteering at Harewood House and here at York Gate. Photography has helped me find positivity, and I hope these images share some of the comfort, joy and inspiration that gardens have given me.”