Families are invited to a special outdoor celebration in Gwynedd as one of the world's most beloved literary bears marks its 100th anniversary. Plas Brondanw, the historic estate where A. A. Milne first imagined Winnie-the-Pooh, will host a family-friendly picnic on Thursday, August 27, to commemorate the milestone moment.
A Century of Inspiration at Plas Brondanw
The event features a special exhibition showcasing how a wet summer holiday in 1923 inspired the famous children's stories. Visitors can take part in a quiz, browse book stalls, and enjoy live story readings throughout the day. Organisers hope the gathering will bring together local residents and visiting fans to celebrate the centenary of the beloved bear.
Entry to the main party activities is free, though standard garden admission applies. Adults pay £10, children £1, and the festivities begin at 11am. The venue is located at Plas Brondanw, Llanfrothen, near Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd.
The Birth of a Literary Icon
Author A. A. Milne began writing his famous children's verses while sheltering from heavy rain at the historic venue in 1923. He escaped to the garden house to avoid other guests and ended up drafting nearly half of his first book of poems during that stay. Illustrator E. H. Shepard later drew the very first sketches of the iconic bear to accompany those early verses.
The massive success of the initial collection led directly to the publication of the full storybook two years later, cementing Winnie-the-Pooh's place in children's literature. The venue boasts extensive grounds and historic features that provided the backdrop for Milne's early creative work.
Activities and Special Guests
Expert author Debbie Jewson will lead interactive talks and story sessions during the outdoor gathering. Guests can also purchase commemorative stuffed toys and books from the event stalls to take home as souvenirs.
Staff at Plas Brondanw are preparing to welcome families from across the region for this unique anniversary occasion. The celebration offers a rare opportunity to explore the very place where a literary classic began, combining history, storytelling, and family fun in a single day.
