I move around Yorkshire with my Take a Seat sign, choosing places where people naturally slow down, take a break or simply enjoy a moment away from the busyness of everyday life. I don’t have one fixed location. Instead, I find a spot that feels right on the day, take a seat and let things unfold naturally.
Sometimes that might be a quiet corner in a park, a bench beside a garden path or a peaceful spot in a public garden. Other times, it could be a local high street, a town centre, a shopping area or a place where people gather as part of their everyday routines.
You might find me in places such as Wakefield city centre, Thornes Park, Pontefract town centre, Castleford, Ossett or the surrounding towns and villages across Yorkshire. Each place has its own character, from busy public spaces where people are constantly coming and going to quieter spots where someone might appreciate a little time to pause.
Of course, I won't always have my sign with me, and not every visit will involve sitting down in a public space. Sometimes, I'll simply be out and about, exploring different places and finding new opportunities to connect with people in everyday life.
Wherever I go, the idea behind Take a Seat Yorkshire remains the same: to encourage conversation, reduce feelings of isolation and remind people that a simple moment of human connection can make a difference.
It's not about where I sit or whether I have my sign with me. It's about the message behind it and the connections we can make along the way.
You might find me in Thornes Park, surrounded by open green spaces and winding paths where people walk their dogs, spend time with family or enjoy a little time to themselves. On another day, I might be near the museum gardens, where the trees and benches offer a calmer setting. I also visit smaller green spaces around Wakefield, places that can easily be overlooked but offer the perfect opportunity to stop, sit and share a moment.
Every location has its own character. Some are full of movement and everyday activity, while others offer a little more peace and quiet. I look for places that feel welcoming and accessible, where someone can approach, sit down and feel comfortable without feeling rushed or put on the spot.
I don't choose places simply to attract attention. Take a Seat Yorkshire is about meeting people where they are and creating space for conversation when the moment feels right.
I head out when I can, depending on the day, the weather and what life allows. Sometimes I'll be out for a short while, and other times I'll stay longer. Some days I'll remain in one location, while on others I'll move between different spots around Wakefield.
There is no fixed timetable, and that's part of what makes Take a Seat Yorkshire what it is. I want the experience to feel natural rather than something people have to plan their day around.
However, if you'd like to find me, there's an easy way to check.
I share my location on the Take a Seat Yorkshire Facebook page, using what3words to help you pinpoint exactly where I'm sitting on the day. This means you can check where I am before heading out, without having to guess or search around.
One of the things I love about Take a Seat Yorkshire is that no two days are quite the same. Some people enjoy the spontaneity of coming across the sign while going about their day. Others might check my location beforehand and make a point of stopping by.
Sometimes, a busy location leads to a quick hello, a smile or a short conversation. At other times, a quieter setting creates the opportunity for someone to sit a little longer and talk about whatever is on their mind. Every interaction is different, and that's what makes each one meaningful in its own way.
There is no expectation that anyone has to stop, speak or explain themselves. You can join me for a conversation, share a quiet moment or simply carry on with your day. All of those choices are equally welcome.
It's about making connection possible, not making it compulsory.
Take a Seat Yorkshire moves because people move. By visiting different places around Wakefield, I can create opportunities for connection in the spaces people already know and enjoy.
It might be a familiar park, a quiet garden path or a bench you have walked past countless times. Wherever I choose to sit, the sign carries the same message: there is someone here who is open to a conversation.
So, if you're out and about in Wakefield and happen to spot me, please feel welcome to come over and take a seat. And if you'd like to know exactly where I'll be, keep an eye on the Take a Seat Yorkshire Facebook page for my latest what3words location.
If you want to know more about why I do this, you can read the About page.
If you want to understand the idea behind it, you can read How It Works.
If you want to reach out, you can visit Get in Touch.