17 Lion Sculptures Transform Westminster Into Interactive Art Trail
A Pride Takes Over Westminster’s Streets
This summer, Westminster has become home to an unusual public art collection that’s capturing the imagination of locals and visitors alike. Seventeen life-sized lion and lioness sculptures, each uniquely designed by different contemporary artists, are scattered across some of the capital’s most recognisable neighbourhoods and landmarks. The trail, known as Pride in the Quarter, launched in early June and transforms familiar routes through Westminster into an interactive cultural experience.
The sculptures are strategically positioned near iconic locations including Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Cathedral—spaces that define our city’s character. Each bronze figure has its left paw resting on a football, a deliberate artistic choice linking the installations to football culture. What makes this particularly special is that the trail remains completely free to explore, making it accessible to everyone from school groups to tourists to locals seeking a lunchtime walk with a cultural twist. For those who’ve walked past the sculpture near Trafalgar Square, designed by Roshi Rouzbehani and inspired by the Lionesses’ crest, you’ll understand the quality and intention behind each installation.
Who’s Behind This and What It Means Locally
Pride in the Quarter emerged from a genuine passion for celebrating football’s cultural significance beyond the pitch. The trail was championed by football legend Harry Redknapp and Fara Williams MBE, the Lionesses’ most-capped player, who recognised an opportunity to connect communities with the sport in meaningful ways. Their vision attracted talented artists from across London, each bringing their own interpretation to these leonine figures.
The local creative community has embraced the project enthusiastically. Artists including Ngadi Smart, Tasia Graham, Sian Bowman, and Melissa Hartley have each contributed distinctive designs, ensuring no two sculptures feel identical. Beyond the artists, Westminster’s hospitality and cultural venues have welcomed the installations, with sculptures positioned outside everything from historic hotels like St Ermin’s and Royal Horseguards to contemporary shopping destinations like Cardinal Place and Eccleston Yards. This collaborative approach has strengthened partnerships across Westminster’s business community while celebrating local creativity. Most importantly, the project directly supports The Passage, Westminster’s dedicated homelessness charity—when the trail concludes in mid-August, all seventeen sculptures will be auctioned with proceeds benefiting this vital local organisation.
What You Should Know and How to Explore
If you haven’t explored the trail yet, here’s your guide to making the most of it before mid-August rolls around. The seventeen sculptures are spread across Westminster’s most walkable areas, making them perfect for leisurely explorations or structured treasure hunts with family and friends. Start at Trafalgar Square to see the Lionesses-inspired centrepiece, then work your way through nearby Victoria Embankment Gardens, where Tasia Graham’s and Sian Bowman’s designs celebrate diversity and modern football culture.
Consider planning themed walks depending on your interests—perhaps a parliamentary loop taking in sculptures near the Houses of Parliament and Whitehall Gardens, or a luxury district route through Grosvenor Crescent and surrounding areas. Each neighbourhood tells its own story through the artists’ interpretations. Local schools and community groups have started organising guided tours, making this an educational opportunity for young people to engage with public art and charitable causes simultaneously. Check local community boards and Westminster Council’s social channels for organized events. Whether you’re a football enthusiast, art lover, or simply someone exploring your neighbourhood differently, this free trail offers something genuinely special. After August 10th, these sculptures disappear into private collections, so now’s your chance to experience this unique celebration of culture, creativity, and community support.
Source: 17 Lions In A City: Westminster’s Lion And Lioness Sculpture Trail
