Giant mole pops up at Coventry Charterhouse

Visitors to Coventry Charterhouse this summer may be surprised to discover a giant mole peeking out from the walled garden.

Standing four metres high, Pepperpot the Mole is a striking outdoor sculpture by contemporary artist Bruce Asbestos, known for bringing bold, playful artworks into unexpected places.

The sculpture has taken up residence in the gardens until 27 September 2026, inviting visitors of all ages to look a little closer at the natural world and the hidden stories beneath their feet.

Alongside the sculpture, visitors can follow a family-friendly trail around the walled garden, discovering where Pepperpot has been popping up and learning more about moles, wildlife and life underground. Seasonal activities and craft workshops will also take place throughout the summer.

Pepperpot's arrival has a special connection to Coventry Charterhouse. Archaeological investigations at the site have uncovered centuries of hidden history beneath the buildings and gardens, revealing clues about the people who once lived here. Like archaeologists, moles spend their lives digging below the surface, uncovering what lies beneath.

Bruce Asbestos, artist, said:

"Historic places such as Coventry Charterhouse hold so much of their story beneath the surface. Archaeology uncovers those layers, piece by piece. Moles are doing something similar, digging, shifting and moving through the ground as they go. Pepperpot the Mole connects those ideas, linking the act of digging with uncovering the past and the hidden stories beneath our feet."

Pepperpot the Mole will be on display until 27 September 2026.