Did you know that York has its very own Paddington Bear bench? Yep, to celebrate the release of Paddington in Peru, a trail of Paddington benches has popped up across the UK and Ireland, and York has been lucky enough to get one! It’s the perfect excuse – as if you needed one – to plan a family trip to York. We were part of Paddington’s welcoming committee at the official unveiling, and it was so lovely to see the sculpture in real life – it’s gorgeous!

He will be staying for a while, so you’ve got plenty of time to seek him out and take a seat next to him. Prepare for a little queue for selfies if you go at a busy time (but that’s just a good excuse to enjoy the surroundings of the pretty park). If you’d like to see it for yourselves, here’s what you need to know about York’s Paddington bench.

Where is the York Paddington bench?

It’s in Dean’s Park, the gated green space right next to York Minster. You will find the bench towards the Precentors Court entrance, which is the one closest to the main entrance of the Minster.

Does it cost anything to see the Paddington bench in York?

No, it’s free to enter Dean’s Park and you don’t need a York Minster admission ticket.

Is there anywhere for a marmalade sandwich nearby?

We can’t promise that marmalade sandwiches will be on the menu, but Dean’s Park is close to lots of lovely family-friendly places to eat and drink (take a look at our selection here).

Is there anything else to do in York with kids?

Are you kidding? There’s SO much else to do in York with kids! Our top free activities include the Railway Museum, walking the city walls and wandering along the Shambles. In terms of attractions, you’re spoilt for choice, with York Minster, JORVIK Viking Centre, York Castle Museum, DIG, The Hole in Wand, The Yorkshire Museum and York’s Chocolate Story just some of our favourites. In terms of tours, a boat ride with City Cruises, a bus tour with CitySightseeing and a wizard walk with The Wizard Walk of York are all excellent choices.