Be a part of Kirkstall Art Trail
Every summer, Kirkstall Art Trail turns the neighbourhood into a pop-up gallery, filling houses, the Abbey, churches, and community spaces with local art and bringing over a thousand visitors together to celebrate creativity on our doorstep. None of it happens without volunteers. Whether you can spare two hours or two days, your time helps make the Art Trail possible for artists and visitors alike.
You don’t need to have experience just enthusiasm, the willingness to try, and a bit of time.
Why volunteer with us
- See the difference you make. Volunteers are the people who keep the Art Trail running smoothly – greeting visitors, supporting artists, and making sure everyone finds their way. Without you, the event simply couldn’t happen.
- Meet your neighbours. It’s a brilliant way to get to know people in Kirkstall, from fellow volunteers to the artists exhibiting their work.
- Be part of local culture. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how a community art trail comes together. Did you know that the organisers are volunteers too!
- No experience needed. In return for volunteering we will show you the ropes and you will always have a coordinator to support you.
What you could be doing
We have a range of roles to suit different amounts of time and different interests, including:
- Setting up and dismantling the event
- Supporting our venue coordinators at locations across Kirkstall
- Welcoming visitors and answering questions at the information point
Can’t make the Art Trail weekend itself? Poster and leaflet drops happen in the run-up to the event, so there’s flexibility if weekend availability is tricky.
When we need you
Kirkstall Art Trail weekend is on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July 2026. Shifts are available on both days, you can pick what time suits you and feel free to select more than one.
Can you offer two hours or more? Many hands make a real difference.
Expenses
Kirkstall Art Trail will reimburse reasonable travel expenses incurred while carrying out your duties.
Access and inclusion
We want the Art Trail, and volunteering with us, to be open to everyone in Kirkstall. If you have any accessibility requirements or need adjustments to take part, let us know in the application form and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.
The majority of the venues where we require volunteers are step-free. Seating is available for the information point at St Stephen’s Church Hall and for greeting visitors at Kirkstall Abbey.
Getting started
Fill in your details below and tell us a bit about your availability, skills and interests, and any accessibility requirements. We’ll be in touch to talk through how you can get involved.
If you have any questions or require a different application format, please email us at info@kirkstallarttrail.co.uk – we’re happy to help.
Apply to be a volunteer
* indicates a required field