Steve Iredale is a chainsaw sculptor based in the coastal village of Staithes in the North York Moors. His dramatic carvings often capture the wildlife of the National Park: owls, deer, hedgehogs and squirrels, as well as an array of mythical beasts.

In this film, he tells us how the landscape inspires his work.

Be inspired by the North York Moors…

Following Steve’s film, we want to share some ideas for exploring the wonderful North York Moors. You’ll find more ideas across our Meet the Makers series.

Visit the artistic coastal village of Staithes

Pay a visit to the charming and inspirational village of Staithes where Steve is based, and see why the breath-taking coastline, rugged natural beauty, boundless skies and incredible northern light of the North York Moors' coast have inspired artists from all over the world.

In the late 19th century, it was home to the renowned ‘Staithes Group’ of British impressionist painters and a visit to Staithes today confirms its lasting appeal to artists, inspired by its towering cliffs, wild seas, clusters of narrow streets and cottages clinging to the hillside.

The village is home to several permanent galleries where you will find contemporary art inspired by the location and each September (postponed until 2022) hosts an Arts & Heritage Festival where makeshift ‘galleries’ are set up in over 80 homes and shops throughout the maze of narrow village streets.

Discover the woodland wildlife of the North York Moors

You’ll find an abundance of native flora in the many types of woodland within the North York Moors, including traditional English wildflower favourites; primrose, bluebells, yellow archangel, wood anemone, cow-wheat and violets. Get up early enough – or walk late enough – and you could be rewarded by the sight of both roe and fallow deer. There are a plethora of other British mammals to spot and track too including: badger, fox, stoat, weasel, wood mouse and shrew.

For expert ‘spotting’ advice, combine the best of woodland and moorland wildlife on one of Yorkshire Coast Nature's excellent Wildlife Safaris.

Indulge in ‘forest-bathing’ within ancient woodlands

Indulge in the Japanese practice of ‘shirin-yoku’ or forest bathing in the tranquil forests and woodlands of the National Park. Walk mindfully through the trees using all five senses and reap the benefits of relaxation, stress reduction and positive mental health.

Dalby Forest on the southern slopes of the North York Moors offers miles of waymarked trails deep into the forest. Visitors can also enjoy more of Steve’s work in the ‘Enchanted Woods’ there.

The forest is home to an abundance of internationally important wildlife species and is also one of three designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites (Milky Way class) in the National Park – so named because the galaxy is often visible to the naked eye from these sites.

Afternoon tea amongst the trees

Enjoy one of the most magical woodland walks in the North York Moors by starting at May Beck, with its dappled light and shallow waters, following a circular two-mile route. An idyllic tea garden set in an old gamekeeper's cottage deep in the woods next to Falling Foss waterfall, offers a perfect spot for a traditional English afternoon tea.

Where to enjoy Steve’s work in the North York Moors

The Danby Dragon, Moors National Park Centre, near Danby

This five-metre-long dragon, carved from oak and boasting metal scales jointly created by another of our featured makers, James Godbold, was commissioned by us and complements a range of other wildlife sculptures along the Riverside Trail at The Moors National Park Centre, near Danby.

Beltane Samhain, Pannett Park, Whitby

Pannet Park, an oasis of calm in the bustling seaside town of Whitby, is home to Steve’s evocative sculpture depicting the two Celtic festivals of Beltane, marking the beginning of summer, and Samhain, marking the beginning of winter. Pannett Art Gallery, also in the Park, is home to an extensive collection of works by the renowned Staithes Group.

St Peters Centre, Staithes

Steve’s mermaid and fish carvings adorn the courtyard garden of this church, turned arts and crafts centre in the village of Staithes, a must visit destination for art lovers.

Find out more about Steve’s work

Steve’s Facebook page is the place to find out about his latest work and new commissions.