The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years at Manchester Museum

Somewhere in Manchester Museum, a cat is sleeping. But not the kind that curls up in a windowsill or knocks your mug off the table. No, this feline is 10 metres long, robotic, inflatable, and takes up an entire gallery.

The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years is a dreamlike, light-soaked installation that invites visitors of all ages to do the most crazy, radical thing of all – slow down. In this beautiful mix of theatre, robotics, and imagination, you’re not expected to learn ten facts, complete a quiz sheet, or even understand what’s going on. You’re just meant to feel something and perhaps, for a moment, breathe.

Created in partnership with the acclaimed creative robotics studio Air Giants, this world-premiere exhibition is mesmerising and mysterious. As the cat shifts gently in response to your presence, it projects its dreams across the space. It beckons little ones to play, and grown-ups to briefly forget about emails, laundry, and whether or not they remembered the packed lunch.

The Cat That Slept for a Thousand Years is not just an exhibition; it’s a collective pause. An invitation to watch and connect.

Launching on Saturday 19 July 2025 with a special family day titled Cats Out of The Bag, this fascinating exhibition is perfect for curious families looking for a screen-free adventure or something a bit different. There’s no plot to follow, no rules to learn, just step in, drift, dream and delight.

Recommended for all ages. No litter box required. And while you’re there, you may also want to see some of the other cat-themed, family friendly exhibitions in the museum, including finding kittens in the AR trail and a host of family activities inspired by cats around the museum, like Cat Costumes, Shadow Play and Magical Mobiles.