Following lockdown 1.0 in the UK, The City of York Council wanted to promote and encourage people to enjoy the great outdoors, exercise and discover the natural beauty of the district, safely. Our challenge was to create a series of walking maps, covering the whole district of York, enabling the public to enjoy their surroundings and help to lift spirits during an uncertain and difficult time for everyone.

We created a series of walking maps called Exploring York – full of things to discover from your doorstep. We created a series of x10 maps, covering the district of York and the many different trails people can follow. The maps vary in difficulty and distance, they feature snippets about York’s rich history, facts and things to look out for along the way, they tell weird and wonderful stories unique to York – they’re more than just walking maps.

We illustrated key sights, sounds, and nature to discover – this brought the maps to life and really emphasised the amazing areas to explore in the district.

We created printed pocket-friendly maps, available at a number of locations in the district. And also online versions, which allowed the public to download and avoid entering public spaces where they may feel unsure of following the lockdown.

Alongside the maps, we created promotional animations which featured across the council’s social media channels. The animations shouted about the maps and drummed up some excitement before they launched.

The maps have been well received and are in demand from the public. Amid lockdown 2.0 here, the great outdoors have become one of few things we can explore whilst following government restrictions. The maps proved to be a great publication to help the public feel positive in this difficult time, they encourage exercise and activity outdoors, offer learning and discovery to all age groups, and celebrate local areas in the York district.