Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice Through the Looking Glass’ is a timeless classic. Well-known for its curious characters and adventurous plot, the tale of Alice and her escape into Wonderland is a story passed from one generation to the next.
In their time, the ‘Alice in Wonderland’ books have inspired a series of creative pursuits – from theatre productions to Halloween costumes, they’ve become a cultural staple. Now, LeedsBID have shared the love for Carroll’s books with an interactive trail around Leeds City Centre.
The trail began on the 26th July and was set up to bring its own brand of life and laughter to Leeds as the long-awaited summer holidays arrive, meaning the Wonderland adventure begins at the perfect time to allow parents a cost-effective way of entertaining their younger ones. From a free-to-enter prize draw with six prizes up for grabs to a game of spotting playing cards, this trail has so much to offer!
Begin by falling down the rabbit hole at Leeds Corn Exchange, before hitting Victoria Quarter for a free sweet surprise! Wander on up to the Merrion Centre and prepare for a curious piece of advice from the ‘Talking Catepillar’ – voiced by Marcus Brigstocke. This wouldn’t be a Wonderland adventure without the beloved ‘Cheshire Cat’, who you can meet at Bridgewater Place, before being whisked away by the ‘Mad Hatter’ at Victoria Gate for an absolutely maddening tea party.
After filling up on cups of tea, the curiosities continue at Aire Park, where you will have the opportunity to play croquet with the ‘Queen of Hearts’, but watch your head! You finish your journey at the Royal Armouries and come face-to-face with a frightening beast – the ‘Jabberwocky’ Pick up the sword and defeat him before it’s too late.
A final detail lies in Trinity Leeds – look up to the ceiling and see who it is! An opportunity to take part in the Trinity Leeds’ Craft Club takes place from 11am to 7pm, with exclusive treats, crafts and offers!
In celebration of the adventure, we were invited to witness a rehearsal of the ‘Mad Hatter’s’ tea party at Victoria Gate. To see the animatronics in action was a stunning surprise and a lovely ode to the Disney adaptation, ‘Alice in Wonderland’, where you see mice popping up from the teapots.
It was a treat to witness Emma Nielsen and Hannah Billingsley as the ‘March Hare’ and the ‘Mad Hatter’. Their performances were a true testament to Carroll’s original writing, whilst adding their own quirks to the characters. It was wonderfully unique and certainly mad!
The summer holidays can often be a tricky time, coming up with ideas for entertainment each day whilst trying to save money. LeedsBid’s trail takes the weight off your shoulders and offers something for the whole family to enjoy. Get your steps in and find your favourite characters hidden in plain sight.
Curiouser and curiouser indeed.
Discover the Trail
Wonderland Awaits | 26 July – 31 August 2025
Free family fun across Leeds
Follow @wonderlandleeds for updates #wonderlandleeds
