As the sun shines brightly and the summer holidays beckon, there’s an immersive outdoor adventure waiting for fans of the most beloved bear – Paddington! This summer, we joined Paddington in a unique family experience, “Paddington Lo-Commotion”, at Britain’s greatest palace, Blenheim Palace. You can also experience this Paddington Bear adventure this summer, so read my review to find out why your little one (and big ones!) will love it and all you need to know about the event.
The Paddington Bear Experience
This brand-new attraction is inspired by the lovable bear character that has been a favourite among children and adults alike. Adam McKenzie Wylie’s Histrionic Productions have created a truly magical adventure. The Paddington Bear Lo-Commotion Experience is a combination of Paddington’s best adventures set amidst the beautiful grounds of Blenheim Palace. It’s the perfect day out for families, offering visitors a chance to help Paddington find a much-loved lost item. The adventure includes free arts and crafts-based activities, making it a perfect summer day for the whole family.
The Immersive Adventure
Running from Tuesday, 4th July to Sunday, 3rd September 2023, the immersive adventure unfolds over a 55-minute journey across the palace grounds. The show is a blend of live performance and puppetry designed by Jimmy Grimes, with interactive elements.
My son absolutely loved the interaction with the characters along the journey in the great outdoors. As you walk along to each scene, you get closer to helping Paddington. We had Mrs Bird as our guide leading us from Blenheim Palace Station to the Walled Gardens. Paddington fans have to look out for clues along the way. My son got so excited every time he saw a hint of the famous marmalade jars – a sure sign Paddington had gone this way. There are a few different scenes to enjoy, including one with a real locomotive. It’s the perfect adventure for lovers of trains!
Meet Your Favourite Characters
The experience is not just about Paddington! You’ll also meet other favourite characters from the famous Paddington stories. Calum Finlay (director and writer) and Damien Stanton (who designed the experience), along with puppetry designer Jimmy Grimes, bring these characters to life. The sheer excitement of seeing these characters adds to the charm of this immersive adventure.
Exploring Blenheim Palace
The adventure does not end with the 55-minute show. Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers many more attractions. Families can explore the beautiful palace grounds, visit the Walled Garden adventure playground with free entry, and take a ride on Blenheim Palace’s miniature train. This is all included in the ticket price.
In the walled garden, you will find a butterfly house, maze and playground.
Other Activities at Blenheim Palace
If you want to make a whole day of the experience, there are a couple of additional activities you can add to the experience which are not included in the price. The mini rover emergency vehicle experience is a great opportunity for little ones. Additionally, you can pay to visit the new Lost Garden Adventure. The incredible adventure playground will keep your kids happy! The fee is £7 per person (including adults), but with your Paddington ticket, you get a £2 discount, making it £5 per person.
Food, Souvenirs and More
After working up an appetite for your adventure, stop by the pizzeria in the Walled Gardens or the cafe by the entrance of Blenheim Palace for some delicious food. If the weather is fine, you can bring a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful grounds of the gardens. A visit is not complete without stopping at the dedicated Paddington shop for souvenirs! The Paddington gift shop offers a selection of Paddington merchandise, including Paddington Plushies and Paddington Storybooks. This is where you will also find the free creative activity area.
At the end of the 55-minute adventure, you might even get an opportunity to have an official photo with Paddington (although this is not guaranteed).
Prepare for the Weather
The experience takes place in the great outdoors, so make sure you are prepared for the weather. If it’s sunny, then make sure you have a sun hat and plenty of sun cream. If it’s raining, ponchos and waterproofs are a must!
Tickets and More for Paddington Blenheim Palace
Tickets for the Paddington Lo-Commotion experience are available from Paddington Train Experience. The show is suitable for younger visitors and
So why wait? Embark on this immersive adventure this summer at the beautiful Blenheim Palace. Meet your favourite bear, explore the historical palace, and create unforgettable memories!
