Leicester's City Centre Transformed into Walkable Solar System Trail
Leicester's city centre has been spectacularly reimagined as a walkable solar system with the launch of Planet Parade, a free, city-wide trail that invites families to explore artistic interpretations of the planets. This innovative project is presented by the National Space Centre in partnership with BID Leicester, and supported by the DMU Engagement Community Challenge Fund and the University of Leicester. The trail will run until May 31, offering a unique blend of art, education, and community engagement.
Collaborative Creation with Young People and Artists
Approximately 250 schoolchildren from across Leicester have played a central role in shaping Planet Parade, working alongside local artists through a series of workshops that explored space, creativity, and design. Their ideas, textures, and creative approaches have been instrumental in bringing each planet to life, ensuring the trail reflects the vibrant imagination of the city's youth.
Exploring the Trail and Unlocking Prizes
Families can embark on this celestial journey by using the My Leicester App, which allows them to follow the trail and unlock prizes upon completion. Alternatively, paper maps are available from participating venues to track progress along the way. The trail spans key locations across Leicester city centre, with each planet hosted at a different venue, creating an immersive experience that encourages exploration and discovery.
Planet Locations and Artistic Contributions
The trail features a series of artist-designed planets installed at various venues, with the Sun located at the National Space Centre. Here is a detailed list of the planets and their locations:
- Sun: National Space Centre
- Mercury: Highcross (Artist: Morgan Stockton, Fosse Mead Primary)
- Venus: Jewry Wall & Roman Baths (Artist: Kate Griffiths, Knighton Mead Primary)
- Earth: BBC Radio Leicester (Artist: Graffwerk, Ash Field Academy)
- Mars: Leicester Cathedral (Artist: Marcus Dove, Roundhill Academy)
- Jupiter: Haymarket Shopping Centre (Artist: Rebecca Harvey-Hobbs, Wolfdale School)
- Saturn: Curve Theatre (Artist: Graffwerk, Ibstock School)
- Uranus: Phoenix (Artist: Rebecca Harvey-Hobbs, Eyres Monsell Primary)
- Neptune: Leicester Museum & Art Gallery (Artist: Marcus Dove, Ellesmere College)
Voices from the Organisers
Chas Bishop, chief executive of the National Space Centre, said: "Planet Parade is a fantastic celebration of creativity and collaboration. It's been inspiring to see so many young people working alongside artists to explore space in imaginative ways, and we're excited to welcome families to experience the trail across the city."
Simon Jenner, BID Leicester director, added: "This is a brilliant example of how we can bring the city together through creativity. Planet Parade will encourage families to explore Leicester, support local venues, and discover the incredible work being created by young people and artists across the city."
Accessibility and Further Information
The trail is completely free and open to all, making it an accessible activity for everyone. Families can download the My Leicester App to start their journey or visit the official website for more details. Follow the trail online by visiting planetparade.co.uk and on social media using the hashtag #PlanetParade.
