About

Lions on the Loose

Lions in the community - 24th July till 10th September, Trail across Epping, Loughton and Harlow

Farewell Weekend - 19th and 20th September, Passmores Academy Harlow

Auction - 24th September 6.30pm, in person at Saint Nicholas School Harlow, or online

Epping, Loughton and Harlow have been transformed by Lions on the Loose, a vibrant and free outdoor art trail designed to bring families, communities and visitors together through creativity and exploration.

A pride of larger‑than‑life lion sculptures have appeared across town centres, streets, green spaces and public places, each one uniquely designed by a professional artist and sponsored by a local business or organisation. Alongside them, a collection of smaller “little lions”, created by schools and community groups, showcase the creativity of local young people.

The trail offers a fun and interactive way to explore their locations, encouraging families to get outdoors, discover new corners of the towns and enjoy a shared summer activity. A trail map guides visitors from sculpture to sculpture, making it easy to take part at their own pace. 

Download the Lions on the Loose app to get started. Or you can pick up a map from a St Clare Hospice shop near you, or via their online shop.

At the end of their 'freedom' the lions will be together for a Farewell Weekend at Passmores Academy Harlow, where you can book a visit (fee applies). Then they will be together for the last time at Saint Nicholas School in Harlow for a grand auction where winning bidders will be able to take them home. The auction starts at 6.30pm on the 24th September - in person or online.

Lions on the Loose is proudly presented by St Clare Hospice, whose work supports people to live well with dignity, care and compassion. The trail helps raise awareness of the hospice’s vital work within the community and challenges common perceptions by highlighting the positive, life‑affirming support hospices provide. When the trail ends, the large lion sculptures will be auctioned to raise funds for St Clare Hospice, directly supporting patients and families across West Essex.

The lion has been chosen as a symbol of strength, courage and togetherness — values that reflect both the spirit of the community and the work of St Clare Hospice. Like a lion’s pride, the trail is about connection, support and working together.

Businesses and organisations also have sponsored lions, helping to bring the trail to life while supporting St Clare Hospice.

Free to enjoy, family‑friendly and full of colour, Lions on the Loose promises to be one of the highlights of summer 2026.