Scenes in the Square Sculpture Trail, Leicester Square, London

A Century of Cinema Immortalized in Bronze

Scenes in the Square is an innovative sculpture trail that brings to life some of the most iconic film and television characters from the last 100 years. Launched in February 2020, the trail features eight original bronze statues representing beloved figures such as Laurel and Hardy, Mary Poppins, Batman, Bugs Bunny, Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly), Paddington Bear, Mr. Bean, and Wonder Woman. These sculptures celebrate Leicester Square's longstanding association with cinema, dating back to its first cinema opening in 1930 and the first film premiere in 1937.

Iconic Sculptures and Their Stories

Each statue captures a memorable cinematic moment: Laurel and Hardy perch atop a ticket booth recreating a scene from their 1929 film Liberty; Mary Poppins appears mid-flight with her umbrella, echoing the 1964 classic; Batman stands vigilantly on the Odeon cinema rooftop; Bugs Bunny pops out of a flower bed munching a carrot; Gene Kelly swings on a lamppost from Singin' in the Rain; Paddington and Mr. Bean invite visitors to share a bench; and Wonder Woman bursts dynamically through a wall symbolizing justice and equality.

Expanding the Trail with New Additions

The trail has grown with time, adding statues such as Harry Potter on his Nimbus 2000 broomstick, commemorating the 2001 world premiere of the first Harry Potter film in Leicester Square. In 2021, the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones was installed, marking a decade since the show's debut. More recent additions include Indiana Jones in a classic Raiders of the Lost Ark pose, Daniel Kaluuya as Chris Washington from Get Out, and Bridget Jones, reflecting the trail’s ongoing evolution and celebration of British and global film culture.

An Immersive and Interactive Experience

Visitors can explore the trail at their own pace, enjoying interactive elements such as audio tours featuring movie clips, interviews, and fun facts accessible via smartphone. The statues come alive in the evening with lighting and music, enhancing the atmosphere of London’s entertainment epicenter. The trail is family-friendly and offers a playful way to engage with film history while soaking in the vibrant surroundings of Leicester Square.

Leicester Square: London's Cinematic Heart

Leicester Square itself is steeped in history as a hub for film premieres and entertainment. Beyond the sculpture trail, the square hosts statues of historic figures like William Shakespeare and has been a cultural meeting point for centuries. Scenes in the Square adds a modern layer to this legacy, blending art, cinema, and public space in a dynamic urban setting.

Visiting and Enjoying the Trail

The trail is free to visit year-round, situated outdoors in the lively heart of London’s West End. It offers a unique photo opportunity and a chance to connect with cinematic icons in a bustling, historic location. Whether you’re a film buff, a family, or a casual visitor, Scenes in the Square provides a memorable cultural experience celebrating the magic of movies.