One of gaming’s most recognisable characters is returning to her roots, with plans confirmed for the iconic Lara Croft statue to make its long-awaited homecoming to Derby.
The announcement was made by Derby campaigner Luke Earle, who revealed that after weeks of discussions, the statue has finally returned to the city that gave birth to the Tomb Raider legend.
Before making the journey, the statue underwent a series of cosmetic updates and a deep clean to ensure she looks her best for the Derby debut.
As part of the Tomb Raider 30th anniversary celebrations, the statue will first be displayed at Derby’s Museum of Making, giving visitors an exclusive “first look” before she moves to her permanent home.
The temporary display will be open on Thursday and Sunday during the TR30 anniversary weekend. Visitors should note that the museum will be hosting a private event on Friday and Saturday, meaning the statue won’t be accessible on those days.
After her stint at the museum, Lara will be relocated to Derby Market Hall, where preparations are already under way for her final display location. Earle also hinted that the next stage of the project will involve adding names to the statue’s base, recognising those who helped bring the campaign to life.
The gaming icon was created in Derby by Core Design, helping put the city firmly on the gaming map, and now after nearly three decades after first raiding tombs, battling dinosaurs and becoming one of the biggest characters in entertainment, Lara Croft is heading back to where it all began.
