Paddington Bear takes a seat across the UK & Ireland ahead of his big screen return

In a special celebration of the nation’s beloved bear, over 20 Paddington Bear statues will soon be popping up on benches across the UK and Ireland as part of a unique new trail called Paddington Visits. The trail, launched by STUDIOCANAL, comes just in time to build excitement for Paddington’s highly anticipated return to the big screen in Paddington in Peru, hitting cinemas on November 8th, 2024.

Each statue will feature the iconic bear in his signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and, of course, clutching a marmalade sandwich — a must-have for any Paddington adventure. The statues are set to appear in key locations from John O’Groats in Scotland to Land’s End in Cornwall, along with stops in cities such as London, Edinburgh, Liverpool, and even the picturesque market town of Bury St Edmunds.

Actor Hugh Bonneville, who plays Mr. Brown in the film series, shared his excitement: “I am thrilled to reveal that we will 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!”

The Paddington Visits trail invites people of all ages to sit beside their favourite bear, take a picture, and even pen a postcard to Aunt Lucy, just like Paddington would. Each location will offer a bear-y special opportunity to spend some time with the famous bear, making it the perfect way for fans to celebrate ahead of his next cinematic adventure.

Paddington in Peru is set to take audiences on a heartwarming and thrilling journey as Paddington returns to his roots in the Peruvian jungle to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, now residing at the Home for Retired Bears. Accompanied by The Brown Family and Mrs. Bird, what begins as a simple trip turns into an unexpected adventure, from the lush Amazon rainforest to the towering mountain peaks of Peru.

With the statues expected to make their debut in early October, fans across the country will soon be able to visit Paddington in person and share in the joy of his adventures. Locations taking part in the trail include:

• Ashby
• Birmingham
• Bury St Edmunds
• Cardiff
• Chester
• County Mayo
• Edinburgh
• John O’ Groats
• Lanark
• Land’s End
• Liverpool
• London Paddington
• London Westfield
• Manchester
• Newbury
• Newtownards
• Penrith
• Peterborough
• Reading
• Salisbury
• Southampton
• Sunderland
• York

For a bear that’s always found himself in the right place at the right time, this trail is a fitting tribute to the joy Paddington brings. Fans are encouraged to keep their eyes peeled as Paddington pops up across the country, adding a touch of magic and a whole lot of marmalade to towns and cities everywhere.

Paddington in Peru arrives in UK and Ireland cinemas on November 8th, 2024. Grab your hats and sandwiches — and maybe a map — because this is one bear you won’t want to miss!