Brighton & Hove will be transformed into a giant storybook in autumn 2026 as charity Amaze and global art producers Wild in Art bring The Story Trail, the city’s newest large-scale public art event, to streets, parks and open spaces. The free, family-friendly trail will feature more than 30 artist-designed BookBench sculptures, each shaped like an open book and celebrating the imagination, creativity and stories of the local community.
The trail, which runs from September to November 2026, was officially unveiled at The Engineerium, where families supported by Amaze, local artists and businesses got a first glimpse of the new BookBench sculpture. As well as the main installations, local schools, nurseries and community groups are invited to decorate a series of smaller BookBenches, adding their own voices and chapters to the city-wide story. Amaze is encouraging parents and carers to invite their child’s school or group to register their interest.
The Story Trail has been designed with inclusion and accessibility at its heart. Hannah Albrooke, Head of Fundraising and Marketing at Amaze, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing this new trail to our city next autumn. Each BookBench is a chance to pause, rest and enjoy a burst of creativity. As a disability charity, it’s important to us that everyone can take part, and we can’t wait to reveal more over the next 12 months.”
Amaze Chief Executive Sally Polanski added: “This immersive city-wide trail will help us raise vital funds and write new, brighter chapters for local families raising a disabled child or a child with additional needs. Many people aren’t aware that it costs three times as much to raise a child with a disability, so the money raised will provide a much-needed boost to our practical and advisory services.”
The 2026 event continues Brighton’s tradition of hosting Wild in Art’s hugely popular sculpture trails, following the success of Snowdogs, Snails and Shaun the Sheep. Previous trails attracted more than 630,000 visitors and generated over £21 million for the local economy, while also boosting wellbeing, outdoor activity and community pride.
Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-founder of Wild in Art, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Amaze to bring The Story Trail to life. Our BookBenches celebrate creativity, storytelling and community, and it’s always inspiring to see how local artists make each sculpture their own. It’s a fantastic opportunity for artists and businesses to get involved in something truly special for the city next year.”
Amaze and Wild in Art are now inviting artists to submit creative ideas for the BookBenches. Local businesses can also come on board as sponsors by contacting Sponsors@StoryTrail.org.uk. Further details for prospective sponsors and artists can be found via the project’s information page.
Brighton & Hove is invited to #SitWithUs in autumn 2026 for a joyful journey through stories, imagination and community spirit. More announcements will follow over the coming months.
More information via Amaze.
