Birmingham has a new 'bear hunt' trail as people say they 'can't wait'

We have a new trail this summer in Birmingham and it looks 'bear-illiant'. Anyone who loves the children's classic 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt' will love the new sculptures to discover across the city centre.

Ten beautifully painted bears have been installed in key locations and each one is inspired by the award-winning animation of the children's book by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. You can download or pick up a map to find them all and tick them off as you go. What's more, it's on throughout the whole of the summer holidays.

Look out for bears in Piccadilly Arcade, Mailbox, Great Western Arcade, Corporation Street, Bullring, Mailbox and more city centre spots. Families can take photos around the trail, which is free. Donations are encouraged in support of Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity.

Read more: Birmingham mum shares how she goes to London for £9 and gets 241 attraction tickets

Competition: Win family tickets to London Zoo with free LNR train travel from Birmingham

Organised by Central BID, you probably remember their previous trails with art producer Wild in Art, which included Snowdogs Discover Birmingham, Brum’s Penguin Parade and Walking with the Snowman, inspired by the timeless stories of Raymond Briggs.

They have teamed up with independent publisher of children’s books, Walker Books, to embark on this latest creative partnership for the summer of 2024, together with Wild in Art again. Decorated by artists, designers and illustrators, the giant bears on the trail celebrate the 'vibrancy, culture and creativity' of Birmingham, taking visitors and locals on a 'trail of discovery' around the city, highlighting iconic spots and hidden gems.

People have been sharing their joy at the new trail on social media. One mum posted: "Awesome another one for us to search for. Loved the Snowdog trail at Christmas." Another added: "Can't wait to see them."

"We know how popular our seasonal sculpture trails are with families from across the Midlands visiting the city centre for a selfie while shopping," said Sam Watson, Chair, Central BID Birmingham. "We’re so excited to unveil the children’s classic We’re Going on a Bear Hunt this summer and to see more smiling faces across the city centre."

Central BID has released a special trail map for families to follow and find all 10 bears at the different locations. Click here to download a map, or pick up copies at each of the bear sculptures and at the Bullring Visitor Services desk.

Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-founder of Wild in Art, said: "We’re delighted to be working with Central BID and Walker Books to bring the much-loved We’re Going on a Bear Hunt to life through a 3D canvas.

“The partnership is a great endorsement of the cultural benefits of our events, which bring fun, free, art galleries to communities and unique opportunities for artists and brands to reach new audiences."