Did you know that before Paddington appeared in print, he existed as a real-life teddy bear? Author, Michael Bond, bought it from Selfridges on Christmas Eve in 1956 and gave it to his wife Brenda as a gift. Bond named the bear Paddington because the couple lived near Paddington Station. He then began to write stories about it and that's how Paddington sprung to life.
One of the world's most famous toyshops, Hamleys, stocks an eye-popping number of toys. 450,000 to be precise! The Regent Street store has been selling Paddington Bear for 40 years, "We are really excited to be part of The Paddington Trail and supporting NSPCC to raise funds for their exemplary work with children."
The wrapping-paper look Hamleys has given Paddington was inspired by all things Christmas. The festive season in this part of Central London is full of bright lights, colourful window displays, and one or two surprises for all well behaved boys and girls.

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Hamley’s, Ground Floor, 188-196 Regent Street, West End, London, W1B 5BT