About

In summer 2026, Epping and Loughton will be 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.

For eight weeks, a pride of larger‑than‑life lion sculptures will appear 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, will showcase the creativity of local young people.

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

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 the opportunity to sponsor a lion, helping to bring the trail to life while supporting St Clare Hospice. Further details about sponsorship and how to get involved can be found on the Lions on the Loose website.

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