Peter Rabbit Chosen as Design for Public Sculpture Trail in Newcastle

Published: 3 March 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

A beloved character from children’s literature, Peter Rabbit, has been selected as the central design theme for a major new public sculpture trail that will enliven city streets and parks this summer. The trail — part of a charity art initiative organised by St Oswald’s Hospice in partnership with Wild in Art and The World of Peter Rabbit — will see more than 50 large, uniquely decorated Peter Rabbit sculptures installed across Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside.

The project, called Peter Rabbit : Tales on the Tyne, invites businesses, community groups and artists to sponsor individual sculptures that will be decorated by selected designers and artists. Each piece will take on a distinct artistic interpretation, creating a whimsical outdoor gallery throughout the summer months of July to September 2026. After the trail, the sculptures will be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting St Oswald’s Hospice — a charity that supports people with life‑limiting illnesses and their families across the North East.

The choice of Peter Rabbit — the mischievous creation of author Beatrix Potter — as the theme builds on the character’s enduring global appeal and is expected to draw families, tourists and art enthusiasts to public spaces for an immersive cultural experience. Funding and sponsorship support also help bring new creative voices into the spotlight, showcasing local artistic talent and encouraging community engagement through public art.

Organisers say the trail not only promotes vibrant cultural participation but also contributes to local economic and social life by attracting visitors, boosting foot traffic to shops and parks, and fostering pride in community creativity. The event follows successful sculpture trail models elsewhere — such as prior themed art walks featuring familiar characters — and aims to create a joyful, family‑friendly environment that celebrates both art and literature.

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