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Watch the Pride of Yorkshire lions being painted at Meadowhall

Something very special is happening on The Avenue – Upper Level, and you can see it as part of your visit.

A dedicated Pride of Yorkshire studio has opened at Meadowhall, giving shoppers a behind-the-scenes look at artists painting the life-sized lion sculptures ahead of the summer 2026 trail celebrating 150 years of Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

Drop in during your trip and you’ll be able to watch the sculptures transform from blank lions into colourful works of art.

See the lions take shape

Several artists are already working in the studio, each bringing their own inspiration and style to the sculptures. Visitors can view designs up close, learn about the project and see how the artwork develops week by week.

The space will also host workshops and activities during the trail.

Coming to South Yorkshire in 2026

Pride of Yorkshire is a major public art trail arriving next summer. The project will feature 150 large lion and lioness sculptures, alongside 150 cubs created by schools and community groups, displayed across Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham and Doncaster.

As Presenting Partner, Meadowhall will host a number of sculptures during the trail, before hosting an exciting Farewell Event of every single sculpture after the trail has ended. The lions will then be auctioned to raise funds for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.

Get involved

When you visit, feel free to take photos and share them by tagging @prideofyorkshiretrail and @lovemeadowhall – we’d love to see lots of you collecting your first sculptures of the trail!

Plan your visit

The Pride of Yorkshire studio is free to visit and open during Meadowhall’s normal opening hours.

Next time you’re shopping, meeting friends or enjoying a family day out, stop by the Upper Avenue and watch the lions come to life.

Last updated Monday 30 March, 2026