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BEAR-Y NICE
I visited the new Paddington immersive experience in London with ‘train rides’ and street parties
And how to book tickets
HE once had tea with Queen Elizabeth II so it seems only fitting that Paddington Bear now has a state-of-the-art tourist attraction dedicated just to him.
The Paddington Bear Experience opened earlier this summer on the Southbank, promising an ‘immersive’ experience that brings the books and films to life.
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The Paddington Bear Experience promises fun for all ages so I took all three of my children Henry, 10, Nicholas, 7, and Estella, 3 along with me.
Your journey into Paddington’s world begins before you even pass the turnstile as you enter via giftshop.
It's an age old trick but this one has more charm than most given it is a loving recreation of Mr Gruber’s shop from the books.
Along the way, actors bring to life various characters from the stories as they get ready for ‘Marmalade Day’, a special street party-celebration dedicated Paddington’s favourite condiment.
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Through the experience we hear what sounds very much like the voice of Ben Whishaw who plays Paddington in the recent movies.
You then wait to board a train in Paddington station before being "whisked" across London to Notting Hill, home to 32 Windsor Gardens where Paddington’s adoptive family the Brown’s famously reside.
The boho, Edwardian style townhouse of the books and movies is lovingly created in exquisite detail, complete with tiled floors and spiral staircase.
In the beautifully painted hallway you meet family matriarch Mrs Brown who sets you off on your adventure.
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Visitors are asked not to film or photograph throughout most of the experience so as not to spoil the surprises for other, so I won’t give away too many secrets here.
But you as you are lead through different rooms of house children and adults are invited to complete various tasks like helping housekeeper Mrs Bird prepare recipes for the party and even unscrambling a portrait of Paddington.
The Queen invites Paddington Bear for tea at the Palace for the Platinum Jubilee concert
Touches of Paddington’s propensity for unintended mischief lie everywhere from paint splattered walls to an ominously dripping ceiling under the bathroom…
The result is utterly charming and beautifully done.
You navigate the experience in very small groups in timed slots which means it feels intimate and there is lots of opportunity to interact with the actors.
Mine were quickly sucked in and my daughter was fully engaged in her quest to help Paddington get enough marmalade for the special party.
Although I would say younger children would enjoy the outing most, despite trying his best to play it cool, Henry later admitted he thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing.
It's not much of a spoiler to say all ends well and the final part of the experience sees visitors joining in with a delightful English street party complete with bunting and, quite naturally, marmalade sandwiches.
There are also other drinks and treats to purchase from a kiosk-including orange infused coffee which was unexpectedly delicious.
My three loved the old fashioned fairground games which were free to play.
And it is here where kids can finally enjoy a photo op with the bear himself.
I thought my little one was going to burst with excitement such had been the build up.
Luckily she didn’t faint but just gave ‘Paddy Boots’ as she calls him a great big,hug.
Like many modern attractions, tickets don’t come cheap, and it only lasts just over an hour, although you can spend as long as you like in the Windsor Gardens finale section.
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Free summer holiday activites
You don't need to spend a penny to keep your kids entertained this summer...
Museums - Some museums offer free entry to some exhibits, and also host events for kids.
Parks - Head to your local park to enjoy the playgrounds, games areas, courts and splash pads. Some even have trails for kids to enjoy.
Beach - It doesn't have to be sunny to enjoy the beach, you can go rock pooling, crabbing, make sandcastles, or enjoy a walk along the headland.
Library - If the weather is awful, head indoors and borrow books, audiobooks, dvds.
Cooking - Have your own mini bake-off, or Come Dine With Me challenge.
Playdates - Invite friends over for an afternoon of socialising.
Boardgames - Enjoy a little sibling rivalry with rounds of Monopoly or stretch your brain with Scrabble.
But this is an unusual experience, full of whimsy, joy, and oodles of charm and of course a great big dollop of marmalade.
Tickets for the Paddington Bear Experience start from £29 for an adult and £19 for a child 2-15.
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