Leeds city centre will officially transform into a magical playground tomorrow (26 July 2025) when Wonderland Awaits opens, offering five weeks of free immersive fun for families and visitors alike. Presented by LeedsBID under its Welcome to Leeds brand, the experience runs until 31 August.
Today, the city is getting a sneak peek of the adventure that awaits with two spectacular reveals.
At Bridgewater Place, the home of The Cheshire Cat, visitors will get their first glimpse of the mischievous feline as part of the seven-location trail. Voiced by the ever-charming Tom Read Wilson, this cheeky cat will help guide adventurers along the way, if they can spot him before he vanishes! The installation is one of the first public pieces of art in what is one of Leeds’ most iconic buildings, home to offices, retailers and some of the most prestigious apartments in the city.
And in a show-stopping moment for the city, Trinity Leeds today unveils a huge (18m x 11m, almost 200sqm), specially commissioned piece of Wonderland Awaits artwork, which is featured on the centre’s iconic glass ceiling. The stunning installation offers a bold and beautiful window into the curious world of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, revealing the Cheshire Cat’s huge grin, setting the scene for the adventure that awaits across Leeds city centre.
Andrew Cooper, Chief Executive of LeedsBID, said:
“We are thrilled to unveil this incredible piece of artwork at Trinity Leeds as we prepare to open Wonderland Awaits. From July 26, the city will come alive with imagination, wonder and creativity, inviting everyone to join the adventure and make magical memories together.”
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said:
“We’re thrilled to be teaming up with LeedsBID once again for a summer full of wonder and joy. This year’s Wonderland Awaits experience invites curious minds to follow the trail of imagination, where surprises pop up like a cheshire cat’s smile.
“As part of the city-wide celebration, our giant 60-foot-wide Cheshire Cat grin atop Trinity Leeds provides a cheeky welcome for those bold enough to tumble down the rabbit hole. Our roof installations have become a hallmark of Trinity Leeds, and this one’s purr-fectly designed to charm, delight, and inspire a few selfie grins of its own.
“We’re confident that this year’s adventure through Wonderland will leave visitors grinning like a Cheshire cat.”
Richard Clarke, General Manager, Bridgewater Place, said:
“Bridgewater Place is thrilled to be a part of bringing ‘Wonderland Awaits’ to Bridgewater Place. This installation promises to be a fantastic experience for families, and we’re excited to welcome the community into our building to enjoy this unique and imaginative event.”
Wonderland Awaits: 7 locations. 7 adventures.Discover the Trail; dowload the trail map at: www.wonderlandleeds.com
1. Down The Rabbit Hole – Leeds Corn Exchange
Wonderland Awaits for those brave adventurers who dare to follow in Alice’s footsteps and journey down the rabbit hole into a most strange and curious world. Just don’t be late!
2. Drink Me, Eat Me – Victoria Quarter
Experience reflection, illusion and transformation. Explore mind-bending visuals and interactive fun. Don’t forget to pick up a sweet treat for your troubles.
3. Advice from a Caterpillar – Merrion Centre
Prepare for a most odd encounter with a caterpillar, voiced by Marcus Brigstocke. Expect sleepy wisdom and some curious advice.
4. The Cheshire Cat – Bridgewater Place
Be sure to catch a glimpse of this not so purrrfect companion and he can help you to keep on track. You need to be quick, as he doesn’t stick around for long. Listen closely for the iconic purr and voice of Tom Read Wilson as the cheeky feline.
5. Victoria Gate – The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
Join the Mad Hatter, March Hare and friends for a wildly whimsical tea party. Expect giggles, riddles, and just a little madness. Look out for live performances throughout the day.
6. The Queen’s Croquet Ground – Aire Park
Try your hand at the Queen of Heart’s favourite game at the brand-new Aire Park. But be on your guard, you don’t want to lose your head! This is the first ever event hosted at Aire Park.
7. Jabberwocky – Royal Armouries
Face your fears and meet the mythical monster in a dramatic, cinematic scene inspired by Carroll’s poem. A thrilling stop for brave adventurers.
This post is based on a press release issued on behalf of LeedsBID
Main photo: Characters join Andrew Cooper (LeedsBID) as Wonderland launches. Photo credit Chapter81 /Jo Ritchie
While you’re here, can we ask a favour?
South Leeds Life is published by a not-for-profit social enterprise. We keep our costs as low as possible but we’ve been hit by increases in the print costs for our monthly newspaper which have doubled in the last two years.
Could you help support local community news by making a one off donation, or even better taking out a supporters subscription?
Donate here, or sign up for a subscription at bit.ly/SLLsubscribe
