As the Chicago Bears make their way across the pond for another thrilling October NFL showdown in London, there’s no better time to explore all the “bear-y” fun that the capital of the UK has to offer. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Chicago Bears or just tagging along for the ride, London has plenty of bear-related sights and stories to entertain you before and after the big game. From historical bears to famous bear-related landmarks, here’s everything Chicago Bears fans need to know about the ‘other’ bears of London.
Fun Fact-Just because someone is wearing a Chicago Bears jersey, doesn’t mean that they know anything about the Bears. All you have to is say ‘Bear Down’ to them, and watch for the look on their face.
Queen’s Bearskins
When in London, it’s hard to miss the stoic Queen’s Guard soldiers standing tall at Buckingham Palace. Whatever you do, don’t get up in their grill, or this could happen.
What might catch your eye more than their unflinching demeanor, though, are those giant fuzzy hats perched on their heads. Yes, those iconic headpieces are made of real Canadian bearskin! No Canadians were hurt in the process, although the bears were.
The bearskin hat is a towering 18 inches tall and weighs about 1.5 pounds, and it’s as much a symbol of London as Big Ben or Tower Bridge. These towering hats were originally designed to make the guards look more imposing, and they date back to 1815 when British soldiers wore them to celebrate their victory at the Battle of Waterloo.
Of course, today’s hats are made with ethically sourced bearskin, and alternatives have been explored. But for now, these regal hats remain a reminder that bears are part of London’s royal heritage, and you can catch a glimpse of these bear-inspired accessories during the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Paddington Bear
It wouldn’t be a trip to London without mentioning one of the most beloved bears in British pop culture – Paddington Bear. Created by Michael Bond in 1958, this little bear from Peru found his way to London with nothing but a suitcase and his trusty marmalade sandwiches.
True bear fans will know that Paddington in Peru movie comes out in November, so this autumn truly is the place to be a bear in the capital.
If you’re in the mood for some bear-themed sightseeing, head to Paddington Station where a bronze statue of the bear himself waits to greet visitors. Nearby, you can also visit the Paddington Bear Shop to grab some adorable souvenirs, from teddy bears to marmalade jars. For Chicago Bears fans, Paddington is a reminder of how the city of London embraces all things bear-related with open arms.
The Bear Garden
Bear garden, not beer garden, although you’ll probably hit both during a successful London trip. Chicago has its Wrigley Field, and London has… the Bear Garden? It sounds like the perfect place for Bears fans to gather! In the Elizabethan era, bear-baiting was a popular form of entertainment (though thankfully no longer practiced today). Close to the famous Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, there once stood an arena known as The Bear Garden, where Londoners would watch bears fight against dogs in brutal displays.
Although bear-baiting is long gone (thank goodness), the site is worth visiting for history buffs who want to know more about the wild, colorful history of London’s past. Just imagine the fanfare of old London crowds rooting for their favorite bear to take down its opponent – quite the spectacle, but one best left in the past! Today, the area is a cultural hub dedicated to Shakespeare’s works, and you can catch a performance at the Globe Theatre to see how Londoners have shifted from violent bear spectacles to high culture.
Feel free to wear your Bears jersey, so that people know that you are a fan of both literature and sport.
Winnie Pooh’s
While Paddington might be London’s official bear ambassador, Winnie the Pooh is another beloved British bear with strong connections to the capital. A.A. Milne, the author of “Winnie-the-Pooh”, was inspired by his son Christopher Robin’s love of a real bear at the London Zoo.
This bear, named Winnie, was originally from Canada and became a star attraction at the zoo after being adopted by British soldiers during World War I. Today, Pooh’s legacy lives on in books, movies, and merchandise that continue to delight fans of all ages. While there isn’t a specific Winnie the Pooh landmark in London, a visit to the zoo or a quick stroll through Harrods – where Pooh merch reigns supreme – will satisfy any bear lover’s appetite.
Another fun fact is that the trademark on Winnie has expired, which is why you’ll see him in acting in low-budget horror flicks as of late, in case you were thinking he went full Nick Cage.
Bears vs Jags
And of course, the reason you’re here – to support the Chicago Bears in their London appearance, when they take on the Jacksonville Jaguars at Tottenham stadium.
London has become a second home for the NFL over the last decade, with multiple games being played each season as part of the league’s International Series. The city’s stadiums transform into a haven for American football fans, bringing together die-hard supporters from all corners of the globe.
Make sure to immerse yourself in the local NFL culture, as Londoners have fully embraced American football. You’ll find Bears jerseys mingling with fans from all teams, creating a unique international atmosphere you won’t experience anywhere else. We will let you know the NFL events as they come out, so watch this space. From tailgate parties to interactive fan zones, to make the most of your London NFL experience, make sure you follow us for all the cool things to do in London.
Bear Pubs
Finally, no trip to London is complete without a pint (or 12) at a local pub. You might even stumble across a pub named after a bear, God knows they have enough lion themed pubs!
So if you’re looking to knock off a pub crawl of Bear-themed pubs, here are a few to consider:
The Bear-Paddington
The aptly named Bear near Paddington station is the perfect place to start your London pub crawl.
An independent pub since 2011, the pub serves up local and craft beers, as well as having its own private hire room.
The Bear and Staff-Soho
Located right in the heart of Soho, is this chain-pub boozer close to all the action. Dating back to 1714, the Bear and Staff has a fine selection of real ales, and is close enough to the Thames for those late night strolls to work off the pints.
Thirsty Bear-South Bank
Just across the river is the aptly named Thirsty Bear, which even offers self-serve taps at your very own table! A very busy pub that is famed for sport, hit the Thirsty if you’re looking to expand on your Bear-Themed pub crawl.
Brown Bear-White Chapel
Head east young folks if you want to sample the traditional atmosphere of the Brown Bear in Whitechapel. With loads of live sport and whiskey, you might find the pub crawl stalling here for a bit.
White Bear-Farringdon
We love independent pubs, which is why the White Bear in Farringdon is such a sweet treat. With fresh artisan pizzas, rotating local beers, and yummy cocktails, it’s easy to see why this pub is such a popular haunt for locals, and tourists alike.
For Chicago Bears fans, it’s a chance to unwind in true British fashion. And who knows, you might even meet some UK-based Bears fans who share your love for the team – proving once again that “Bear Down” knows no borders. Unless of course you have no idea what that means.
Bear Down in London
London is ready to welcome Chicago Bears fans with open arms (and paws). Whether you’re exploring bear-related landmarks or just soaking in the city’s rich history and culture, there’s plenty to see and do before and after the game. From Paddington to Winnie the Pooh, the bears of London might not have the flash of Caleb Williams, but they’ll certainly add a fun twist to your NFL weekend abroad.
So grab your Chicago Bears jersey, prepare to Bear Down, and enjoy everything London has to offer – from royal bearskin hats to pint-sized Paddington Bear. It’s going to be a roaring good time!
Watch this space, as we will have loads more info here as we release it.
