Belsay Hall welcomes 400 ceramic squirrels in response to challenges facing red squirrels
This October, 400 ceramic squirrels have made their home in the historic grounds of Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens in response to the challenges facing native red squirrels.
Scurry is an installation by sculptor Dan Gough, inviting visitors to reflect on how we shape the world around us, the unintended consequences of changing our natural world, and the grey choices we make to conserve it.
Scurry was created by Dan Gough as his winning submission to the Gillian Dickinson North East Young Sculptor of the Year Award in 2016, which provided £5,000 towards making the work.
Originally comprising 2,000 ceramic squirrels, the installation is returning to Northumberland ten years after its creation.
Visitors can use their noses to begin the search for this striking installation. If you smell candyfloss, you'll know you're in the right place.
As you emerge from the long path leading up to East Quarry Meadow, a surge of red winds its way between the trees. Among the vibrant green of ferns, shrubs and cultivated trees, hundreds of ceramic sculptures spread across the meadow, inviting visitors to explore the installation.
As their real counterparts forage for winter supplies, visitors can keep their eyes peeled for three red ceramic squirrels leading them towards their new home in East Quarry Meadow.
Scurry is included with normal admission to Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens and runs until November 1 2026.