Paddington’s meeting with the late Queen recreated with new Steiff bear

Ben McCaffrey
Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:57:07 +0000

A charming recreation of the beloved Platinum Jubilee tea party between Paddington Bear and Queen Elizabeth II has been staged at Newby Hall to commemorate what would have been Her Majesty's 100th birthday tomorrow.

The touching display in the Tapestry Room features soft toys positioned to evoke the memorable 2022 sketch that delighted the nation.

German toymaker Steiff has unveiled a special edition teddy bear dressed in one of the late Queen's most distinctive ensembles to mark the centenary occasion.

The commemorative bear sports the monarch's signature lime green coat and matching hat, complete with a pearl necklace and handbag.

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Production of the collectable has been restricted to precisely 4,996 pieces, a deliberate tribute to the late Queen's 96 years of life.

Each bear carries a price tag of £289 and will arrive individually numbered within a souvenir bag.

The feet of every bear feature coloured embroidery specially designed to honour the centenary milestone.

Steiff has partnered with Galerista to bring this commemorative piece to collectors and royal enthusiasts alike.

The attention to detail extends to replicating Her Majesty's accessories, ensuring the bear captures the elegance that defined her public appearances throughout seven decades on the throne.

Ian Munro, Steiff’s director of international sales, said: "We’re here today at the fantastic Tapestry Room here at Newby Hall, and we are celebrating the fact that 100 years ago, on the 21st of April, 1926, Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, was born.

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"And what Her Majesty (stood) for in the last 100 years was really, as she said herself, dedication and pride, and service, and I think she has a very special place in all of our hearts.

"And all of us at Steiff, together with our key partner, Galerista, wanted to celebrate this event where we’re launching a superb collectable, limited edition-style teddy bear."

Mr Munro characterised the original encounter between Paddington and the late Queen as "one of the most cherished moments" and noted it had been "one of the greatest secrets" prior to its broadcast.

The comedy sketch saw Her Majesty reveal she kept marmalade sandwiches, the Peruvian bear's favourite treat, tucked inside her handbag.

Following the Queen's passing in 2022, mourners gathered outside Buckingham Palace, leaving Paddington toys and marmalade sandwiches as heartfelt tributes.

Steiff, established in the German city of Giengen in 1880 by Margarete Steiff, claims credit for creating the world's first teddy bear and has previously produced commemorative bears marking events, including the millennium.