Jonathan Cainer’s One-Eyed Gordon

The story of Jonathan Cainer’s one-eyed cat is one filled with character, kindness, and creativity. For many years, Jonathan Cainer was well known as the astrologer for The Daily Mail, but beyond the stars, he had his feet firmly on the ground, working tirelessly to support local causes and charities. When we held a competition to find a special new addition to The York Cat Trail, Jonathan kindly agreed to host the winning cat on his beautiful building.

The winner was Gordon — a one-eyed cat with a big personality and a patch to match! Gordon had lived a happy life in Sandsend, near Whitby, with the Mead family, who won our competition.

To bring Gordon’s story to life, sculptor Eoghan Bridge created a stunning statue that quickly became one of the most admired and loved cats on the trail. This piece not only celebrates Gordon’s unique spirit but also adds a touch of flair and individuality to The York Cat Trail — a perfect tribute to a cat (and an astrologer) who both saw the world a little differently.

Meet Goji – York’s Pioneering Veggie Cat

Goji the Veggie Cat earned its name for very obvious — and delicious — reasons! This charming feline sits proudly on Goji, the ever-popular Vegetarian Restaurant on Goodramgate. The restaurant’s Founder and then-owner loved the idea of joining The York Cat Trail, so they commissioned talented cat sculptor J. Newdick to create and place a unique cat on the building.

The end result delighted both visitors and locals alike — and Goji has held a special distinction ever since: it was the first cat to land on Goodramgate!

Now, of course, the street is home to quite the crowd of cats. It seems they’ve been breeding — at least in the most artistic sense!

The York Cat Café – A Purrfect Pilgrimage Spot

No longer the new kitten on the block, the Cat Café has become a beloved stop for those making the famous cat pilgrimage to York. Visitors can relax, sip on their favourite refreshments, and enjoy the calming company of several live cats — each with their own charming personality. Advance booking ensures your table is ready for a truly pawsome experience.

Perched on Goodramgate, the building itself hides a delightful secret. Outside stands a beautiful Jon Newdick statue, affectionately named Hope by the café’s loyal visitors. But Hope isn’t alone! At the rear of the property, another feline figure waits to be discovered — a second statue known to café-goers as Jack. Together, Hope and Jack have become symbolic guardians of the café, adding an extra touch of magic to this already enchanting York destination.

Gerald: The Minster Cat Immortalised in Stonet

In 2017, Gerald, a lively six-year-old Bengal cat, arrived in York alongside his brother, Donald. The two quickly became local celebrities around York Minster, earning the affectionate nickname The Minster Cats and delighting visitors with their playful antics.

Tragically, a few years later, Gerald passed away, his body found near the Minster. In a touching tribute, the Minster Bells were heard to chime a few days later, honouring Gerald’s life and marking his passing in a truly heartfelt way.

Gerald’s story, however, did not end there. York Minster stonemason Anthony Bartyla carefully crafted a stone carving in Gerald’s likeness. With the blessing of Holy Trinity Church, the carving was placed within their grounds, allowing Gerald to be immortalised for generations to come.

Today, Gerald’s stone stands as a lasting tribute, bringing joy to his devoted owner, Justine, and continuing to watch over his brother, Donald, the sole remaining York Minster Cat. Gerald’s memory lives on — a feline legend forever part of York’s heart.

The Half-Sized Cat of 1/2 St Andrewsgate

Once a vacant lot, the space to the left of No. 1 St Andrewsgate became the canvas for a special new home. Tom played a key role in the house’s design and planning, and when it was completed, it earned a quirky and fitting name: 1/2 St Andrewsgate.

Adding to the charm, the house is adorned with a half-sized cat — or perhaps a tiny kitten — perched delicately on the black woodwork. It’s a delightful detail that makes this property almost unique in the UK: not only is it numbered 1/2, but it also boasts a pint-sized feline keeping watch over its doorstep. A small cat with a big personality, it captures the imagination of visitors and locals alike, making 1/2 St Andrewsgate a true standout on York’s streets.

The Full-Sized Cat of 1 St Andrewsgate

On St Andrewsgate, another of Tom Adams and sculptor Jonathan Newdick’s striking black resin cats can be discovered. At No. 1 St Andrewsgate, a full-sized resin cat proudly perches, perfectly befitting a building numbered 1, a whole number in every sense.

Interestingly, this cat contrasts with its neighbour to the left, which features a smaller feline — a playful nod to the house next door. Together, these cats showcase the artistry of Newdick and the imaginative touch of Tom Adams, adding both charm and character to St Andrewsgate for all visitors to admire.

The Clock-Climbing Cat of Barnitts

At Barnitts, another remarkable black resin cat can be found, sculpted by Jonathan Newdick. This particular cat was created after the sad passing of Tom Adams, yet it carries forward his love of whimsical feline touches.

The cat appears to be climbing toward the clock that adorns the building, a timepiece erected to celebrate 50 years “man and boy” at Barnitts — a tribute by the father of the present owner of this beloved family business.

Perched in this way, the Barnitts cat not only adds charm and character to the building but also serves as a playful reminder of legacy, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of York’s artistic cat trail.

The Barnitts Cat: A Souvenir of Tom Adams’ Creativity

In York, Tom Adams was a familiar figure, renowned for keeping clients delighted while renovating buildings across the city. His sculptor was often just as busy, bringing a touch of artistry to each project.

On nearby Colliergate, the local DIY and homeware emporium Barnitts stands out as one of the few buildings to display a cat plaque, believed to have been created by Tom himself. This charming silhouette rests in a panel above one of the shop’s entrances, a subtle yet memorable nod to the feline artistry that Tom was famous for.

Legend has it that the owners of the building were so taken with Tom’s cats that they requested two keepsakes of his creative work — one now proudly on display at Barnitts, forever celebrating the playful charm and craftsmanship of Tom Adams’ designs.

The Stalking Cat of King’s Square

Perched on the roof of what is now The Duke of York in King’s Square, a black resin cat by Tom Adams keeps a watchful eye over the city below. Legend has it that once the statue was completed, Tom was not entirely satisfied — until a local joiner, with impressive speed and skill, carved a pigeon and mounted it on the roof.

This clever addition gives the impression that the cat is in action, stalking its airborne prey. It’s a delightful and dynamic touch, making this rooftop feline one of the more playful and imaginative pieces on the York Cat Trail.

A word of caution for visitors: when the trees are in full leaf, this statue can be tricky to spot, and the pigeon has occasionally fallen into disrepair. So don’t spend too long searching if it hasn’t yet been restored — the thrill is in the discovery!

Lucky – Our Original Shambles Cat

Meet Lucky, our special cat with a story. He may look similar to other Newdick climbing cats, but Lucky holds a unique place in our hearts. He marks the very spot where the York Cat Trail was born—conceived and crafted right from our former Shambles shop. It was here, many years ago, that we first created The Original York Lucky Cat.

From that humble beginning, the York Cat Trail has grown into a beloved, free adventure enjoyed by thousands of visitors and locals alike. Every year, we distribute nearly 100,000 leaflets, and countless more are downloaded online, guiding families and cat-lovers on their whimsical journey through the streets of York. Lucky isn’t just a cat—he’s the starting point of a trail full of fun, discovery, and memories that continue to delight year after year.

Fortuitous – A Cat with a Grateful Heart

Meet Fortuitous, a cat with a story of friendship and support. Chris, the wonderful manager at Edinburgh Woollen Mill, understood the challenges small independent businesses face and helped us countless times—holding our keys, taking deliveries, and always being a reliable neighbour.

Like all good neighbours, he was never thanked enough. So, we did what felt right: we honoured him by sourcing Fortuitous, the much-admired cat who sits opposite Lucky. Together, these famous York cats keep a watchful eye over the bustling Shambles and mark the very spot where the York cat story began.

Fortuitous is a beautifully crafted statue, designed by Matt Buckley, and a symbol of friendship, gratitude, and the magic of York’s streets.

Steff and John’s Ghost Cat – The Golden Fleece

Steff and John were the last—and perhaps the best—traditional landlords at The Golden Fleece. Like Andy at The Black Swan, Steff wanted to be part of our York Cat Trail and was referred to Jon Newdick, who brought her vision to life, creating this wonderful ghost cat to her exact specifications.

Dating back to 1667, The Golden Fleece has long been reputed as York’s most haunted pub. Inside, the crooked corridor provides a purr-fect setting for some of the crooked characters preserved on the walls as death masks.

Even the founder of the York Cat Trail, John Hopkinson, has his quiet place—over the door to the gents, in a solitary, unassuming spot. Many other friends and regulars are immortalised on the pub’s wall of fame, including Mark Graham, consistently recognised as the best ghost tour guide on The Original Ghostwalk of York, which starts every evening at 8 pm at the King’s Arms.

Steff and John’s ghost cat isn’t just a tribute – it’s a whimsical guardian of history, memories, and York’s haunted charm.

Scandal – The Watergate Cat

Perched on the left just past the security gate, Scandal is another of York’s beloved pub cats, cheekily named in reference to the Watergate scandal across the pond. This charming figure was provided by John Hopkinson, who served as landlord here for many years.

A little York trivia: streets in the city are often called “Gates,” and the Watergate Inn itself resembles a small street leading toward the river at the back. The pub replaced the former Five Lions, a venue steeped in history much like nearby Walmgate.

Scandal has had his adventures, too – once stolen along with a bike and a pub chair! Luckily, a brave member of staff chased down the thieves and returned him safely.

This little cat continues to watch over the pub, a mischievous reminder of York’s rich history and the stories hidden around every corner.

The Alehouse Cat – Keeper of Walmgate Secrets

Perched inside the Walmgate Ale House, this striking cat keeps watch over one of York’s most historic streets. The long, deceptively simple building was once home to the renowned rope makers, Ellerkers, who famously supplied rope for the long drop at York’s former gaol. Locals often said, “God rest their soul, for Ellerker’s rope never fails”—a testament to the skill and reliability of their craft.

This cat is similar, if not identical, to The Goji Cat on Goodramgate. Like many others on the trail, it is a resin creation by Jon Newdick, commissioned by Tom Adams during the transformation of the building into a restaurant. The Alehouse Cat isn’t the only sculpture here. Look around, and you’ll spot a horse – a nod to the hardworking Irish navvies who shaped Walmgate and York itself after leaving their homeland. Together, these sculptures celebrate York’s history, its people, and its unique charm.

The Watchful Cat of Walmgate

Long ago, Skinny Sam the barber had a simple wish: he wanted a cat—well, a cat statue—to perch proudly above his little shop. And so it was placed, high above Walmgate, where it could keep an eye on the bustling street below.

Sam has since moved on, but his loyal stone companion remains. Day after day, the cat still watches over Walmgate, a quiet reminder of the barber who left a touch of whimsy behind.

The Mystery of the Missing Coppergate Cat

Not many people know that the proud cat statue perched above the Coppergate pub is actually the second feline to grace that spot. The first was a generous gift to Jason, the business owner, from York Lucky Cats back when their shop bustled in the Shambles around 2014. But one fateful night, the cat was “borrowed” – and local whispers suggest a band of late-night revellers may have spirited it away!

The pub itself has been standing since about 1782, watching centuries of York’s stories unfold. So this new cat – still nameless, still mysterious—is practically a newborn in comparison. We’re still waiting to discover who crafted it or where it came from, but its presence adds a certain charm to Coppergate.

And truly, every pub deserves a cat. Even a silent, sculpted one. Especially a pub as old and loved as this. One thing is certain: hunting for the cat is far more delightful than staring at the buses that so often clog the street!

The Curious Cats of King’s Staith

Down on King’s Staith, about 300 metres downstream from the famously flood-soaked King’s Arms pub, four quiet cat statues gather close to the river. When the water’s high, there’s no point searching – swimming is banned and the river’s far too cold.

But on a calm day, follow the path where South Esplanade meets Friar’s Terrace. When you reach the strange gate that goes absolutely nowhere, you’re in the right spot. Look up, and there they are.

Two matching white cats, a poised Siamese and a sleek black cat sit together like a little riverside family. Their names and history remain a mystery, but surely their owners are cat lovers with a story worth telling.

York’s Most Elusive Feline

Cat No. 24 is one of the sneakiest felines on the entire York Cat Trail – especially when the trees are in full leaf. This hidden cat is the brother of the Holland & Barrett Cat on Coney Street, created by Tom Adams when he was working on the same building. Instead of posing proudly out front, this brother chose the quieter life… at the back.

Your best chance of spotting him is from the riverside walkway near the tall Park Inn Hotel. The building’s own postcode won’t help much – he’s too well tucked away. Instead, head for YO1 6DA, home of the riverside restaurant Panda Mama. Stand by the water, look across the river, and shift your view until you catch a glimpse through the branches. When you finally see him, you’ll understand why this cat is one of the trail’s greatest little triumphs.

The Two Original Cats of York

Every great story has a beginning, and for York’s cats, it started here. Long before contemporary sculptors gained fame, two feline statues kept watch over this spot – their creator unknown and uncredited. No written records survive, only stories passed down.

Back in the 19th century, the Aitcheson family ran a grocery shop here, when York still thrived as a port city and goods moved along the river. Hessian sacks of grain, flour, and other treats would have made the shop a mice magnet, and perhaps inspired the cats’ watchful presence.

Sir Stephen Aitcheson, one-time Lord Mayor, is often credited with the statues, though local lore hints that there may once have been more – nine cats in total. One resident recalls being shown the cats in the 1970s, noting they were already in a state of disrepair, and maybe even numbering three at the time.

During a building refurbishment, the statues were taken down, prompting fears they had been stolen. But the oldest two cats have since returned, restored to their rightful glory continuing their quiet vigil over the riverside.

Jo’s Bruks Cat

The last of the dozen cat statues the author helped bring to life, Jo’s Bruks Cat is a small but striking sentinel, crafted by the talented Eoghan Bridge. Perched outside Bruks, he watches over the comings and goings of locals and regulars alike, never missing a detail.

Bruks itself sits just off the beaten path, giving it a quiet charm that only those in the know can fully appreciate. Inside, there’s always a good chance of finding a seat, enjoying friendly company, and sampling reliably tasty fare. Outside, Jo’s Bruks Cat keeps a steady, watchful eye on it all, adding a touch of whimsical guardianship to this little corner of York.

Despite his unassuming size, this cat carries the weight of his predecessors’ legacy, marking the end of a twelve-cat journey across the city. He may be the youngest, but his presence feels just as important, a playful yet protective nod to York’s enduring love of its feline friends.

The Coney Street Watcher

Perched high on the front of 25 Coney Street, visible from just outside the Lucky Cat Shop, is Cat No. 28. Recently refreshed, this curious feline peers down from his window ledge, keeping a watchful eye over the street below. Like many others on the trail, he was commissioned by architect Tom Adams.

While most of Jon Newdick’s cats are black, the revitalised York Cat Trail now showcases a delightful mix of styles and colours thanks to contributions from multiple sculptors. The decorator of this building clearly felt this cat needed extra character, adding a striking splash of white to his tail. It certainly helps him stand out – can you spot him from the street?

The Boss Cat of The Mount

Perched proudly above a prestigious Mount building is a cat with authority – known as The Boss’ Cat, or sometimes The Architect’s Cat. Jet black, with recently refreshed luminous eyes, he keeps a sharp, purposeful watch over the street below, right from above the front door.

This feline guardian was created in 1982 by Jon Newdick for Tom Adams, the architect whose office once occupied the building. Styled and coloured to match many of the other statues on York buildings Tom worked on, he’s not just any cat – he’s a true Top Cat of The Mount.

Salem – Andy’s Climbing Cat at The Black Swan

High above the entrance of The Black Swan perches Salem, the sweet climbing cat with a story as charming as the inn itself. This feline came to life through a happy collaboration: after a long day at Goji, John would sometimes stop by to visit his friend Andy, then the inn’s landlord. When John asked if he could place a cat on the trail, Andy happily agreed – and was directed to Jon Newdick, who expertly molded the statue and received payment. And just like that, the wheels of business – and cat-making -turned!

The Black Swan itself is one of York’s oldest and most delightful pubs, with rooms and hospitality that have kept locals and visitors enchanted for generations. Before he passed, Andy affectionately nicknamed this cat ‘Cooking Fat’ – a fitting tribute for a pub, but perhaps less suitable for a family-friendly cat trail. And so, Salem keeps watch anonymously, climbing and observing, adding a whimsical touch to one of York’s most beloved inns.

Gus – The Theatre Cat

About a mile from York’s city centre, the Grade II listed Joseph Rowntree Theatre wanted a cat of its own – and one with flair. Hoping to join the York Cat Trail, the theatre commissioned Jon Newdick to craft a statue full of panache, and thus Gus, inspired by T.S. Eliot’s famous “Gus the Theatre Cat,” came to life.

Gus is a portly feline with undeniable style, seemingly defying gravity as he clings to the building with effortless charm. His meticulously detailed fur rewards a careful look, revealing the care poured into every curve and tuft.

Though he doesn’t appear on the family-friendly York Cat Trail – too far for most walkers – Gus earns his place in the directory, adding sophistication, whimsy, and a theatrical flair to this distinguished theatre.

The Ginger Guardians of Fulford

A pleasant but fairly long riverside stroll from the city centre leads you to Fulford, where the Plough Inn has been lovingly run by Kim and Sue for many years. Both devoted cat lovers, they shared their pub with two much-loved felines, Tom and Georgie. Hoping to join The York Cat Trail, they decided to honour their furry regulars with statues of their own.

The resulting pair – large, proudly ginger, and full of character – were crafted by Jon Newdick. Since their arrival, these cheerful cats have delighted locals, pub-goers and even children peering out of cars on their way to school or the nearby designer outlet.

They’ve become warm, whiskered additions to the ever-growing York Cat story.