Updated: 30 August 2026. We’re Going on a Bear Hunt has travelled far beyond the bookshelf. Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s picture book has inspired screen adaptations, family theatre and, more recently, large-scale public art trails — making it a lovely example of how one children’s story can move from page to stage, screen and real-world adventure.
Latest Update
The biggest current Bear Hunt event near London is Dartford Bear Hunt, running from 17 July to 13 September 2026 across Dartford town centre and Bluewater. The trail features 31 large bear sculptures, 51 bear cubs and a special book bench, with funds raised for Kent hospice charity ellenor.
The Original Book
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. First published in 1989, it has become a modern children’s classic and continues to be available in numerous editions and formats through Walker Books.
Walker Books is also publishing a new We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Carousel Book on 10 September 2026. The 3D gift edition uses layered cut-paper scenes and is aimed at children aged 3–7.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt on Stage
Little Angel Theatre has its own puppetry adaptation of the story, adapted by Peter Glanville and Barb Jungr. The production was first created in 2012 and has returned several times since.
Its most recent confirmed tour ran from February to April 2026, visiting Chipping Norton Theatre, The Egg in Bath, Brighton Dome, The Radlett Centre and Polka Theatre in Wimbledon from 25 March to 12 April 2026. The show is aimed at ages 3–8 and combines puppetry with original music by Barb Jungr.
Clarissa’s Corner has a little bit of Bear Hunt history too: the show appeared on my 2017 Theatre Wishlist for the Churchill Theatre. That older post remains part of the site archive rather than being rewritten as current information.
Bear Hunt Art Trails
Wild in Art has developed a series of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt sculpture trails inspired by the animated adaptation of the story. Each trail uses individually decorated bear sculptures to create an outdoor art adventure for families while supporting local communities and charities.
Dartford Bear Hunt 2026
- Dates: 17 July–13 September 2026
- Where: Dartford town centre and Bluewater Shopping Centre
- Trail: 31 Big Bears, 51 Bear Cubs and one special book bench
- Charity: ellenor
- App: Official trail app available for £1.99, with proceeds donated to ellenor
The large sculptures will later be auctioned to raise additional funds for ellenor, which supports children and adults with life-limiting conditions in North Kent and Bexley.
From Page to Stage, Screen and Days Out
This is exactly the sort of adaptation trail I love following on Clarissa’s Corner. A single picture book can become theatre, animation and then a real-world family day out — and each version introduces the story to a slightly different audience.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies depending on the production or trail. For current theatre performances, check the individual venue for relaxed performances, access seating and sensory information. For outdoor art trails, check the organiser’s route information before travelling, particularly if you need step-free access, accessible toilets or shorter route options.
FAQ
Who wrote We’re Going on a Bear Hunt?
The book is written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury.
Is there a We’re Going on a Bear Hunt stage show?
Yes. Little Angel Theatre has a puppetry adaptation. Its most recent confirmed tour ran from February to April 2026. New dates should be checked directly with Little Angel Theatre.
Is there a Bear Hunt art trail near London in 2026?
Yes. Dartford Bear Hunt runs from 17 July to 13 September 2026 across Dartford town centre and Bluewater.
