In light of the recent Willy Wonka debacle in Glasgow, when a Wonka-themed immersive experience was such a rip-off people ended up in tears, the police got involved, and it made international headlines, it's not exactly the best time to be announcing another experience revolving around a beloved children's character. However, we feel pretty confident getting behind this one for a couple of reasons.
One, the company organising it, The Path Entertainment, has a proven track record including the ever-popular Monopoly Lifesized experience, and two, it revolves around Paddington Bear, not Willy Wonka. And while Wonka always struck us as a bit of a charlatan, Paddington Bear is innocence and childhood wonder incarnate and can do no wrong ever, how dare you even think that, he met THE QUEEN, for goodness' sake, AND HAVE YOU SEEN HIS LIL RED HAT IT SO. CUTE. I. CAN'T. EVEN.
Ahem. Sorry, it needed to be said.
So, about that immersive experience. Come the end of May, Paddington Bear and his family will be coming to Southbank's County Hall. Bears of all sizes and ages will be able to explore different themed rooms and interact with beloved characters, play games, and more. The adventure will culminate in a special Windsor Gardens street party commemorating Marmalade Day Festival with food, drinks, and more fun. Yes, there will be marmalade sandwiches, though as you know, it's always a good idea to keep one for emergencies.
The family-friendly Paddington Bear Experiences launches at County Hall on 31 May, with general sale starting on 4 March. Book your tickets here.