Drake Circus unveils bee-autifull summer installation

24th June 2025

Drake Circus has unveiled its new summer installation for 2025, transforming the centre’s atrium with an ode to Plymouth’s pollinators.

Following the success of last year’s rainbow themed installation, this year’s display has been developed in partnership with local biodiversity organisation, Pollenize, celebrating bees and butterflies whilst educating visitors on their importance for our ecosystems.

A vibrant ‘hive’ has been suspended above the centre’s atrium, where visitors can take in the golden, sparkling honeycomb pieces and sculptural bees as they shop.

Throughout the centre, shoppers of all ages can dive deeper into the hive as they pass through a specially designed educational trail developed in partnership with Pollenize. Along the trail, interactive QR codes will share insights into the importance of pollinators for biodiversity and food security, as well as highlighting ways to support bees and butterflies at home.

A final photo-worthy flourish, the popular rainbow vinyl selfie spot, has also returned to the Cornwall Street entrance, offering the chance to snap the perfect summer selfie.

Meanwhile, Drake Circus will once again be hosting a community event space in the atrium, offering further activity for families visiting throughout the summer holidays. Complete with recycled astroturf, the space will provide a platform for community partners to showcase the work they’re doing to promote sustainability and the environment.

Greg Lumley, centre director at Drake Circus and The Barcode, said: “We know just how much our visitors love the big reveal of Drake Circus’ summer transformation, and this year we’re buzzing with excitement – quite literally! For 2025, we’ve teamed up with the amazing local heroes at Pollenize to create something truly special. Get ready for a vibrant, eye-catching installation that not only looks incredible but also shines a spotlight on the vital role of pollinators.

“This year’s theme is all about celebrating our brilliant bees, butterflies, and other pollinating pals – and showing everyone in Plymouth just how easy it is to help them thrive. So, come along, snap some photos, soak up the atmosphere, and leave with a few new ideas for how to make a difference. We can’t wait to welcome you to Drake Circus for a summer experience that’s as beautiful as it is inspiring!”

Owen Finnie, Co-Founder of Pollenize, commented: "It’s inspiring to see spaces like Drake Circus using their platform to spotlight the critical role of pollinators. Through this partnership, we’re not just creating a stunning visual experience, we’re sparking curiosity and action. Our hope is that every visitor leaves with a deeper understanding of how connected we are to nature, and how easy it is to play a part in protecting it. Small actions, like planting wildflowers or supporting local pollinator projects, can make a big difference."

Pollenize is a Plymouth-based organisation dedicated to addressing environmental challenges, including monitoring and improving biodiversity through academic partnerships, innovation and AI, enabling insects to recover and ecosystems to thrive.

The installation was also co-curated by Pollenize’s award-winning photographer Chris Parkes, whose support of conservation and scientific organisations only added to the impact of this year’s theme.

The display will be live throughout the summer until early September and visitors are encouraged to share their photos with @DrakeCircus on Facebook and Instagram.

Find out more information on Pollenize, or plan your trip to Drake Circus.