Paddington Bear Experience Opens at County Hall for a Limited Run
Britain’s most beloved cultural icon right now is Paddington Bear, whose popularity rivals even The Beatles and more recently, Ollie Watkins! Paddington, the bear with a fondness for marmalade sandwiches, continues to capture the hearts of generations since his debut in 1958.
This year marks a significant expansion of Paddington’s presence with the release of a third film, a stage musical in the works, and the opening of The Paddington Bear Experience in central London. Located at County Hall near the London Eye, this immersive attraction allows visitors to step into Paddington’s world, journeying from Paddington Station to 32 Windsor Gardens and even the jungles of Peru, culminating in a celebration of Marmalade Day.
Karen Jankel, daughter of Paddington’s creator Michael Bond, expressed her delight at Paddington’s ongoing success. Reflecting on the immersive experience, Jankel said, “The attention to detail was spot on, and it truly felt like stepping into Paddington’s world. My father would have been thrilled”.
The culture show, directed by Tom Maller and designed by Rebecca Brower, aims to capture the nostalgic charm of the Paddington films. Brower’s dedication to authenticity included meticulously recreating Paddington’s world, drawing inspiration from the films and real-life locations like Windsor Gardens.
Visitors begin their adventure in Mr Gruber’s shop, filled with Paddington merchandise, before moving to a replica of Paddington Station. From there, guests are transported to Windsor Gardens, where they explore the Browns’ house and engage in interactive activities. The experience is particularly magical for children, who immerse themselves fully in the adventure.
Paddington’s journey began when Michael Bond bought a lonely bear from a shop near Paddington Station on Christmas Eve 1956. This act of kindness inspired the beloved series of books that have since sold over 40 million copies worldwide and been translated into 40 languages.
The Paddington Bear Experience runs until 30th March. Tickets and more information can be found at paddingtonbearexperience.com.
