York's Tansy Beetle Mural: A Vibrant Tribute to an Endangered Jewel
A vibrant street art tribute in York celebrating the rare, shimmering green Tansy Beetle and its fragile riverside habitat.
Located on Queen Street near Micklegate in York, the Tansy Beetle Mural is a striking street art piece by acclaimed artist ATM. Painted in 2019, it celebrates the rare and endangered Tansy Beetle, a shimmering green insect found only along a short stretch of the River Ouse. This mural raises awareness of local biodiversity and the beetle's fragile habitat, making it a unique and meaningful urban landmark.
A brief summary to York's Tansy Beetle Mural
- Queen St, York, YO24 1AD, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the mural’s vivid colors and details.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby River Ouse to spot real tansy beetles in season.
- Learn about local conservation efforts by exploring information boards near the mural and in York’s Museum Gardens.
- Bring a camera for striking photos of the mural’s intricate artwork and urban setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From York railway station, it is a 10-15 minute walk to the mural on Queen Street. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through central York streets. No additional cost beyond train fare.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve stops near Micklegate and Queen Street, with a 5-10 minute walk to the mural. Buses run frequently during the day with fares typically between £2-£4 per single journey.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central York locations will take around 5 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £5-£10. Useful for visitors with limited mobility.
York's Tansy Beetle Mural location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about York's Tansy Beetle Mural
A Living Tribute to York’s Endangered Tansy Beetle
The Tansy Beetle Mural, painted in 2019 by the renowned environmental street artist ATM, stands proudly on a brick wall along Queen Street, close to Micklegate and York railway station. This mural captures the beetle’s iridescent green shell with remarkable detail and vibrancy, bringing attention to a species that is both rare and locally significant. The Tansy Beetle itself is an endangered insect found only on a narrow 30-kilometer stretch of the River Ouse, making this mural a vital symbol of York’s natural heritage.Art with a Conservation Message
ATM, known throughout the UK for his large-scale depictions of endangered species, created this mural in collaboration with the environmental charity New Networks for Nature. The project was crowdfunded, reflecting community support for raising awareness about the Tansy Beetle’s plight. The beetle’s decline is closely linked to the reduction of its host plant, the yellow tansy, and its inability to fly limits its breeding opportunities. The mural not only celebrates the beetle’s beauty but also highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in urban and riverbank environments.Setting and Surroundings of the Mural
Situated on Queen Street, the mural is part of York’s modest but growing street art scene. Its location near Micklegate, a historic gateway into the city, and proximity to the train station make it accessible to visitors exploring York’s city centre. The mural’s vibrant green contrasts with the traditional brickwork, creating a striking visual landmark that draws the eye and invites reflection on the natural world within an urban setting.Connecting Nature and Community
The Tansy Beetle Mural serves as a cultural bridge between York’s residents, visitors, and the environment. It encourages people to learn about the beetle and the ecosystem it depends on, fostering appreciation for local biodiversity. Nearby, the yellow tansy plant is being replanted to support the beetle’s survival, and the mural acts as a beacon for these conservation efforts. This intersection of art, nature, and community activism exemplifies how urban spaces can champion environmental awareness.Seasonal Life of the Tansy Beetle
The beetle is most active in the warmer months, particularly April to May and August to September, when it can be found on the yellow tansy plants along the river. Although the mural is a permanent fixture, the beetle’s presence in the natural environment is seasonal and fleeting, adding a layer of poignancy to the artwork. The mural invites viewers to consider the delicate balance of urban wildlife and the importance of protecting endangered species.A Unique York Landmark with a Global Message
While the Tansy Beetle is a local species, the mural’s message resonates globally, reflecting widespread concerns about biodiversity loss and habitat destruction. ATM’s work elevates small creatures often overlooked, emphasizing their crucial role in healthy ecosystems. York’s Tansy Beetle Mural stands as a vibrant, educational, and artistic landmark that enriches the city’s cultural fabric while advocating for environmental stewardship.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic England - York Office
0.3 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Ouse Bridge
0.6 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Anglian Tower
0.8 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Parliament St
0.8 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Barley Hall
0.8 km
Discover the rich history of York at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse showcasing life in the 15th century.
The Norman House
0.9 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Shambles Market
0.9 km
Discover York’s vibrant Shambles Market, where historic charm meets artisan crafts and global street food in a lively covered marketplace.
Exhibition Square
0.9 km
Discover the cultural heart of York at Exhibition Square, a vibrant space rich in history and community events, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.9 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
William Etty
0.9 km
Explore the artistic legacy of William Etty in York’s Exhibition Square, where history and culture come alive in a stunning sculpture.
Petergate House
0.9 km
Discover the historic Petergate House and York Oratory, where Georgian elegance meets vibrant Catholic heritage in the heart of York.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.9 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
28 Shambles
0.9 km
Medieval York's most iconic street, where 900 years of history meet vibrant modern commerce.
York Art Gallery
0.9 km
Explore York Art Gallery: A cultural gem showcasing a vibrant mix of historical and contemporary art in the heart of York.
Unmissable attractions to see
Micklegate Bar
0.1 km
Step through Micklegate Bar, York’s iconic medieval gatehouse steeped in history, legends, and centuries of city defense.
A Very Magical Adventure
0.3 km
Embark on a whimsical family-friendly magical quest through York’s historic streets at Jacobs Well.
The Ghost Bus Tours York
0.3 km
Experience the chilling tales of York's haunted history aboard The Ghost Bus Tours, a unique blend of entertainment and storytelling.
Hooting Owl Distillery York
0.4 km
York’s first city distillery: where craft gin, rum and vodka meet myth, magic and a touch of owl-inspired flair in a stylish bar-lounge.
All Saints North Street, York - The Shrine and Parish Church
0.5 km
A medieval York church with breathtaking 15th-century stained glass and a rebuilt anchorite’s cell, offering quiet reflection and a vivid glimpse into medieval faith and art.
Barker Tower
0.5 km
Discover the medieval charm and historical significance of Barker Tower, a must-visit landmark in the heart of York.
York Beach
0.5 km
A vibrant craft beer bar in York’s historic Merchant Exchange, blending industrial charm with regional brews and lively riverside views.
Dame Judi Dench Walk
0.6 km
A peaceful riverside stroll in York honoring Dame Judi Dench, blending historic views with tranquil urban nature.
Miniature Railway
0.6 km
A charming miniature railway ride nestled within York’s National Railway Museum, blending family fun with historic railway heritage.
National Railway Museum York
0.6 km
Explore Britain's rich railway heritage with iconic locomotives, interactive exhibits, and historic carriages at York's National Railway Museum.
The Original Ghost Walk of York
0.6 km
York's longest-running ghost tour—authentic paranormal history told nightly by passionate guides.
City Screen Picturehouse
0.6 km
A lively independent cinema and cultural venue in York blending film, live entertainment, and a welcoming cafe-bar atmosphere.
York Gift Center
0.6 km
Discover authentic York souvenirs and local crafts in a charming historic gift shop nestled in the heart of the city.
Baile Hill
0.6 km
Explore Baile Hill, York’s serene Norman motte and bailey castle site with rich history and stunning views of York Minster.
Coney St
0.6 km
York’s historic Coney Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shopping, dining, and riverside charm in the city centre.
Essential places to dine
Delrio's Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian and Sardinian cuisine in York’s cozy cellar setting, where passion and tradition create unforgettable flavors.
Partisan
0.2 km
Artistic café serving seasonal brunch and lunch in a bohemian Parisian-inspired setting on historic Micklegate.
Skosh
0.2 km
Inventive small plates, global flavors, and theatrical kitchen views in intimate York setting.
The Rise
0.4 km
Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in York’s only five-star hotel, featuring an open kitchen, terrace views, and award-winning afternoon tea.
Kapadokya
0.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
0.4 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
The Whippet Inn
0.5 km
York’s hidden steakhouse gem offering ethically sourced beef, cozy ambiance, and exceptional Sunday roasts in a stylish adults-only setting.
The Star Inn The City
0.6 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
Corner Grill House
0.6 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.6 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.7 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
Roots York
0.7 km
Discover Roots York, a Michelin-starred gem offering seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus in a historic 19th-century setting with warm, refined ambiance.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.7 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Melton's Restaurant
0.7 km
An intimate York gem offering inventive Modern British tasting menus with expert wine pairings in a warm, unpretentious setting.
Brew & Brownie
0.7 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hidden Treasures
0.4 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Greybear
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
York Souvenir's
0.6 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.7 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
The Imaginarium
0.7 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.8 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.8 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Paper Doll
0.8 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Fenwick York
0.8 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Cello by Collectables
0.8 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Rookscroft
0.9 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
The Antiques Centre York
0.9 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques and vintage collectibles at The Antiques Centre York, where history meets charm in every corner.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
0.9 km
Discover a magical shopping experience at The Shop That Must Not Be Named in York, where fantasy and adventure come alive with enchanting gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.9 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
York Tap
0.3 km
Discover York Tap, a historic Edwardian pub at York Station, offering 32 rotating craft beer lines and a lively atmosphere for beer lovers.
The Maltings
0.5 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
Jalou York
0.5 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
Tank & Paddle York
0.5 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Revolution York
0.6 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.6 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.6 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Lendal Cellars
0.6 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Plonkers
0.6 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.7 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.7 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Dusk
0.7 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Dyls
0.8 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
The Punch Bowl
0.8 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
The Three Tuns
0.8 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.3 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.3 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Popworld York
0.4 km
York’s lively nightclub with five decades of pop hits, a unique revolving dancefloor, and a safe, fun party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Flares - York
0.5 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
BlueBox
0.7 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.7 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
32.8 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.3 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
33.8 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
34.1 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.1 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
34.2 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
34.3 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Street Art
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
