Pudsey Bear sets sail for Falmouth

One of the UK’s most beloved bears is heading to Falmouth and you can be there to welcome him.

Pudsey Bear, the iconic mascot of BBC Children in Need, is embarking on his first-ever round-Britain voyage this spring and summer, and Cornwall is among the stops on an extraordinary journey. Sailing aboard the yacht Big Bear, Pudsey will travel more than 2,200 nautical miles around the UK coastline between May and August 2026 on the Big Bear Voyage, visiting 35 coastal towns and cities along the way.

Come and Meet Pudsey at the Museum

We’re delighted to welcome Pudsey to National Maritime Museum Cornwall during May Half Term.  Meet Pudsey at the Museum on Saturday 23 May from 11am – 12pm and 2pm – 3pm.

Pudsey will be welcoming visitors in Events Square, Discovery Quay and exploring The Rockpool Project’s mobile rockpool that’s here for half term to discover some friendly creatures!

A Voyage with a Mission

The Big Bear Voyage 2026 is no ordinary sailing trip. At its heart is a mission to raise awareness and funds for children’s mental health. Today, one in five children in the UK is living with a mental health challenge. The ambitious journey aims to raise £70,000 for BBC Children in Need.

Meet the Captain

The voyage is captained by Jonathan Brewin, who will celebrate his 70th birthday during the journey and chose to mark the milestone in the most remarkable way. Sailing alongside his wife Jackie and a rotating crew of lifelong friends, many of whom have known each other for more than 40 years, the voyage is itself a testament to the power of long-lasting, supportive relationships, values at the heart of BBC Children in Need’s work. You can support Jonathan and the crew directly via his fundraising page.

Don’t Miss Pudsey in Falmouth

With sails set and the Big Bear on course, Falmouth will be one of the first harbours to welcome Pudsey.

We hope to see you there!

Images: Big Bear Voyage 2026