This summer, families across Gloucestershire can look forward to a dazzling spectacle as 32 magnificent lion sculptures roam the streets of Gloucester and Cheltenham. Painted and designed by talented artists, these majestic lions will proudly stand at iconic landmarks and everyday locations, creating a unique and vibrant public art trail.
Joining these grand lions is the Cub Club—a collection of 54 smaller lion sculptures crafted with care by local schools, clubs, and community groups. Running from Friday, July 11 to Sunday, September 14, the Lions at Large – The Pride of Gloucestershire Trail promises a fun and free event for visitors of all ages.
Organized by Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity, this trail is a vital fundraiser for The Big Space Cancer Appeal, dedicated to developing a state-of-the-art cancer care centre at Cheltenham General Hospital. The new centre will feature modern consulting rooms equipped with the latest digital technology, spaces for innovative research and clinical trials, and a calming therapeutic garden designed for patient well-being.
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Richard Smith, Associate Director of the Charity, expressed his excitement: “We are absolutely thrilled that Lions at Large is finally here! Years of planning have gone into this, and seeing it come to life is incredible. We are deeply thankful to our presenting partners, sculpture sponsors, schools, community groups, and volunteers for their invaluable support. Every step on this trail helps fund something truly life-changing.”
Partnering with Wild in Art, the charity has brought this inspiring public art experience to life, encouraging people of all ages to enjoy art beyond traditional galleries.
Among the standout sculptures is The Kintsugi Lion, sponsored by Fostering Gloucestershire County Council and designed by Sam Morris from Tewkesbury. Drawing inspiration from the Japanese art of Kintsugi—the repair of broken pottery with gold—Sam’s lion symbolizes strength and resilience. Coincidentally, Sam received a breast cancer diagnosis the same week her design was selected, making the project deeply personal.
“Working on my lion during a cancelled chemotherapy session gave me comfort and purpose,” Sam shared. “Through the support of loved ones, we mend our cracks. The scar I now carry is my own Kintsugi, a reminder of strength and resilience, much like the lion I created. I’m forever grateful to the NHS teams for their support.”
To enhance the experience, visitors can use a dedicated app and trail map to find sculptures, track their journey, and collect rewards. A sticker safari book encourages engagement, while a pop-up shop at Gloucester Quays offers crafted items, merchandise, and a raffle with an exciting prize—an overnight stay in the Lion Lodge at West Midland Safari Park.
This ambitious event has united over 75 local businesses. Thirty companies have sponsored sculptures, with Spirax Sarco as Learning Programme Partner and Arthur Spriggs & Sons as Logistics Partner. Both Gloucester and Cheltenham Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) proudly serve as presenting partners for their respective areas.
Francesca Inman, Cheltenham BID Chief Executive, and Gloucester BID Manager Emily Gibbon said, “We are immensely proud to see the Lions at Large Sculpture Trail come alive throughout Cheltenham and Gloucester. These stunning sculptures will bring vibrancy and creativity to our streets, encouraging everyone to explore, shop, and enjoy local offerings. It’s been inspiring to witness such widespread community and business support.”
As visitors and families follow the lions, they are not only enjoying a cultural celebration but also contributing to a powerful cause. Even after the sculptures leave, their impact will resonate in the form of a new cancer care centre—a lasting legacy and true Pride of Gloucestershire.