Paddington Bear’s New Adventure Takes Him Across the UK with Special Statue Trail

Paddington Bear is heading on a journey across the UK and Ireland, and this time, he’s not just on the big screen. Fans of the iconic bear will soon be able to encounter him in real life as STUDIOCANAL launches the Paddington Visits trail, a unique event in celebration of the beloved character. Over 20 beautifully crafted statues of Paddington will take residence in key locations across the country, providing visitors the chance to sit with the famous bear himself.

The initiative, timed to build excitement ahead of the release of Paddington in Peru in cinemas this November, is set to bring joy to fans young and old.

A nationwide celebration of Paddington

Launching in early October 2024, the Paddington Visits trail will see more than 20 Paddington Bear statues placed on benches in towns, cities, and beauty spots across the UK and Ireland. Each statue will feature Paddington in his signature attire: the iconic red hat, blue duffle coat, and a marmalade sandwich in hand. The installations will invite fans to take a moment with the bear, whether to enjoy a quiet moment or to capture the experience with a photograph.

Hugh Bonneville, known for playing Mr. Brown in the Paddington films, expressed his excitement about the upcoming event.

“I am thrilled to reveal we are going to be unveiling a number of benches across the UK, all featuring a statue of our beloved bear. Ahead of the new film, fans, families, and friends can sit down and have a chat with the marmalade-loving bear, so watch this space for more information about Paddington... coming to a bench near you!”

Exciting Locations to Explore

Fans across the UK and Ireland will have the chance to encounter Paddington Bear in locations ranging from bustling cities to serene landscapes. Participating locations include:

• London Paddington
• Liverpool
• Birmingham
• Cardiff
• Edinburgh
• York
• Land's End
• John o' Groats

From the southernmost tip of England to the northernmost point of Scotland, this trail will give many the opportunity to experience a bit of Paddington magic in their hometowns or during their travels. The inclusion of locations across Ireland further adds to the widespread reach of the event, with stops such as County Mayo joining the line-up.

A sneak peek at Paddington’s new adventure

This exciting event comes just ahead of the release of Paddington in Peru, which hits cinemas on November 8th, 2024. In this new film, Paddington embarks on an adventure to the Peruvian jungle, where he reconnects with his Aunt Lucy, now living in the Home for Retired Bears. Alongside The Brown Family and Mrs. Bird, Paddington finds himself involved in a mystery that leads the group on a journey through the Amazon and into the mountains of Peru.

As always, the film promises to be a heartwarming tale filled with humour and excitement. Fans of all ages can look forward to seeing their favourite bear navigate new challenges, all while maintaining his unshakeable optimism and love of marmalade.

Paddington’s enduring legacy

For more than six decades, Paddington Bear, created by British author Michael Bond, has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Since his literary debut in 1958 with A Bear Called Paddington, the character has grown into a global icon. The bear’s adventures have been adapted for both television and film, with the first Paddington movie making its big-screen debut in 2014. The film was followed by Paddington 2 in 2017, with the upcoming Paddington in Peru marking the third instalment of this beloved franchise.

The enduring appeal of Paddington can be attributed to the kindness, curiosity, and good-natured humour that he embodies. The stories resonate across generations, making Paddington a staple of British culture and a familiar face to audiences around the world.

More than just a bear: A global icon

The Paddington Visits trail is just the latest example of how Paddington continues to charm fans globally. In recent years, the bear has also made his way onto the small screen with the Nickelodeon series The Adventures of Paddington, which introduces younger viewers to Paddington’s wholesome adventures.

Paddington’s international fame is underscored by his presence on social media platforms, where fans can keep up with his latest exploits. You can find Paddington on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and even YouTube, where his adventures continue to entertain and inspire.

Preparing for the big day

Fans who want to experience the magic of Paddington in person should mark their calendars for early October 2024 when the trail officially launches. Whether you’re in a major city like Manchester or exploring quieter locales such as Newbury, these statues will offer a delightful surprise for passersby. Each statue will be crafted with attention to detail, ensuring that Paddington’s charm is fully captured.

As the excitement builds for the release of Paddington in Peru, this trail serves as a perfect way to celebrate the bear that has brought joy to so many. With its nationwide reach, the Paddington Visits trail ensures that the joy and whimsy of Paddington will touch every corner of the UK and Ireland.

The Paddington Visits trail offers an engaging and memorable way to celebrate one of the most beloved characters in British literature. From the charming bench statues to the exciting cinematic release, Paddington continues to be a source of joy and nostalgia for fans of all ages. As we look forward to seeing him return to the big screen in Paddington in Peru, the statue trail provides a unique opportunity to connect with this iconic character in a tangible way. Keep an eye out for Paddington on a bench near you, and don’t forget to bring a marmalade sandwich!