Chester: The Perfect Place to Watch Paddington in Peru

If you’re as excited as we are about Paddington coming to the big screen for the 3rd time, let us introduce you to the perfect place to enjoy it: Chester! This historic and picturesque city is a treasure trove of Paddington-related activities that will make your trip to see the film even more special. We've created a trail that includes some fun, bear-inspired reasons why Chester should be at the top of your list for a cinematic weekend celebrating everyone's favourite marmalade-loving bear.

Treat yourself to Marmalade Ice Cream at Snugbury’s

Start your Paddington journey at Snugbury’s by the River. In honour of Paddington’s trademark marmalade sandwiches, Snugbury’s have created a marmalade ice cream, an orange zest ice cream with a Seville marmalade curd ripple, yum!. Grab a zesty scoop (or two), and head into town for the next stop on the trail.

Snap a Selfie with Paddington’s Statue in Chester City Centre

As you stroll through the picturesque streets of Chester, make sure you stop by the Paddington statue on Foregate Street. This life-sized statue of Paddington is sitting on a bench waiting for you to join him for a chat. So grab yourself a marmalade sandwich, don your best red hat and blue duffle coat, and come and have a selfie. It's a fun and lasting way to commemorate your visit to Chester. Brought to Chester by Chester BID Company as part of Paddington Visits from Studio Canal.

Step into Peruvian Chocolate Heaven at Chester Market

In Chester Market, the Pastry Pédaleur headed up by Steph Peters - who featured on Channel 4’s ‘Aldi’s Next Big Thing’ - has whipped up a range of marmalade treats that would exceed even Paddington’s expectations. Valrhona dark chocolate from Peru is blended into a moist orange marmalade brownie; the Andoan noire chocolate is 70% cure Peruvian, with a Caramelised honey and orange marmalade macaron, and a hazelnut and orange marmalade bear paw.  Both have been a huge hit over recent weeks, and are available throughout November.

Enjoy Paddington in Peru at Chester’s Cinemas: Picturehouse and Storyhouse

After a day filled with Paddington-themed adventures, it’s time to settle in for the main event: watching Paddington in Peru at one of Chester’s cosy cinemas. Picturehouse (from 8^th November) offers a classic, comfortable cinema experience, making it an ideal spot to sit back and laugh along with Paddington’s latest adventures. If you can’t make it to Chester until later in the month, head over to Storyhouse (22^nd – 28^th November), Chester’s cultural hub. Both venues are centrally located, so you can catch the latest Paddington film without straying far from all the other bear-themed activities.

Meet a Real-Life Paddington at Chester Zoo

If you’re staying in Chester for longer a visit to Chester Zoo is a must. It’s one of the UK’s best zoos and home to many South American animals – much like Paddington’s original homeland, Peru! Here you can visit the Andean bears, who are native to the Andes. They might even remind you of the lovable character himself! Wandering through Chester Zoo is a fantastic way to learn more about Paddington’s roots while appreciating some of his wild relatives.

Spot the huge Paddington statue at Snugbury's, Nantwich

Just a short drive from Chester is Snugbury’s Ice Cream, a place well known for its delicious, homemade ice cream (you can also sample the delicious Marmalade Ice Cream here!). Head over to see the huge, straw Paddington statue, proudly standing 50ft high looking out across the Cheshire plains. He’s hand stuffed by straw and clad with hand painted shingles with his hat and suitcase expertly woven with two types of willow. Snugbury’s is known for its unique sculptures, and their new Paddington statue, is a must-see for fans of all ages.

Why Chester Makes the Best Paddington Destination

So now you can see why Chester is the perfect place to celebrate Paddington’s big-screen return. Marmalade treats, unique statues and seeing a real life Paddington bear, make Chester the dream destination for Paddington fans of all ages. So, grab your tickets, don your duffle coat, and come experience Paddington in Peru in Chester – a city that truly understands the magic of everyone's favourite bear!