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The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years

Free
Saturday 21 March - Sunday 12 April 2026
Start time:10AM - End time: 4PM
DATE: Saturday 21 March - Sunday 12 April 2026
Start time:10AM - End time: 4PM
PRICE: Free
AGE RANGE:
Adults
Families
Young People
Children
Exhibition Dates & Timings

WX is closed on Mondays, so the exhibition will not be available on Monday 23 March, Monday 30 March and Monday 6 April. 

Please note the exhibition will open at the later time of 11:30am on Wednesday 1 April and Wednesday 8 April due to closed workshops.

Exhibition Accessibility

The exhibition does not feature flashing lights or loud noises.

The cat does make sound by purring and sometime snoring, but this is low level noise.​ The cat's tail and ear move and purrs can be felt through the skin.​The cat is internally lit, and the lighting changes gently.​

It may be noisy when the exhibition is busy so you may wish to wear ear defenders. 

There are separate SEND sessions taking place on Wednesday 1 April and Wednesday 8 April with limited spaces available.​ Find out more here.

Bringing a touch of magic, The Cat That Slept For A Thousand Years is a 10 metre long Cat that snores, purrs, twitches its ear and swishes its tail!  

Brought to life by Air Giants’ pioneering robotic technology, the cat invites all ages to immerse themselves in her unique movements. 

Originally commissioned by Manchester Museum, part of the University of Manchester, the cat is now heading to Wakefield where visitors can show their affection by giving it a stroke or a cuddle, and feel a massive purr. The more people there are, the more restless it is.  

Wakefield Exchange will feature an immersive exhibition delving into the fascinating story of the legendary cat, complemented by a curated display of feline-themed artifacts from the museum’s collection. 

Families can look forward to a variety of engaging, cat-inspired activities designed to entertain and spark creativity for all ages. 

Self-Led Activities

This resource offers play-based ideas inspired by The Cat That Slept for A Thousand Years, with activities focus on care, empathy, rest, imagination and gentle sensory exploration. Click HERE to download the resource. 

 

Feeling Peckish? Our street food & drink vendors have something for everyone…

Smash & Dash - Smash & Dash Wakefield | Wakefield Exchange

Gray’s Coffee Shop - Gray's Coffee Shop | Wakefield Exchange

La Chingada Tex Mex - La Chingada Tex Mex | Wakefield Exchange

The Exchange Tap - The Exchange Tap | Wakefield Exchange

Spudz Wakefield - Spudz Wakefield | Wakefield Exchange

The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years
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The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years

The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years

The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years

Saturday 21 March - Sunday 12 April 2026
Start time:10AM - End time: 4PM

Bringing a touch of magic, The Cat That Slept For A Thousand Years is a 10 metre long Cat that snores, purrs, twitches its ear and swishes its tail!  

More Info
Early Years Creative Sessions for Childminders

Early Years Creative Sessions for Childminders

Monday 23 March - Tuesday 24 March 2026
Start time:10AM - End time: 2:30PM

Relaxed, artist-led session for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers as part of The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years. 

More Info
SEND-Friendly Creative Sessions (Sold Out)

SEND-Friendly Creative Sessions (Sold Out)

Wednesday 1 April & Wednesday 8 April 2026
Start time:10AM - End time: 11:30AM

Join us for a free gentle and inclusive exploration of The Cat That Slept For A Thousand Years.

More Info

Plan your visit

Placed conveniently in the heart of the city, WX is the perfect place to meet friends, make memories with family, attend an event, or grab a bite to eat or drink. 

There are multiple ways you can reach Wakefield Exchange by clicking on the link.

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