A big adventure. A beautiful day. We can all go on a Bear Hunt this summer

This summer, families across North Lincolnshire are being invited to sharpen their senses and get ready for an adventure like no other.

North Lincolnshire Council is bringing the major national We’re Going on a Bear Hunt sculpture trail to the heart of Scunthorpe during the 2026 summer holidays.

That’s right… no grass too wavy, no mud too squelchy.

Officially licensed by Walker Books and delivered in partnership with internationally renowned producers Wild in Art, the nine-week trail will feature a series of large-scale bear sculptures located across the town centre throughout July and August.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is exactly the kind of thing we want to see happening in the town centre – playful, welcoming and designed around families.

“It’s a nationally recognised trail, but what really matters is what it means locally: getting people out and about, supporting businesses, and creating memories that children will carry with them long after the summer holidays end.”

Charlie Langhorne, managing director and co-founder, Wild in Art, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing We’re Going on a Bear Hunt to Scunthorpe this summer in partnership with North Lincolnshire Council.

“This much-loved story has a unique ability to spark imagination across generations, and this trail turns that magic into a captivating, outdoor experience for the whole community.

“Our trails are designed to bring people together, encourage exploration, and create moments of joy in everyday spaces. As families discover each beautifully designed bear sculpture, they’ll enjoy a trail that’s fun, imaginative and bursting with creativity.”

This much-loved trail has previously appeared in major cities including Birmingham and Leeds. This summer, it’s Scunthorpe’s turn to take centre stage – with this free, family-friendly adventure that blends art, imagination, movement and storytelling.

The trail will be a headline moment in the council’s Year of Reading, bringing stories out of books and into streets, parks and cultural spaces – encouraging families to explore, play and read together.

Behind the scenes, libraries, museums, sports teams, schools and community groups are gearing up to weave Bear Hunt magic through events, walks, workshops and story sessions across the holidays.

Eight local schools and organisations have also been given the exciting opportunity to design and decorate their very own bear cub.

The bear cubs designed by St Hugh’s School, Chatterbooks , Engineering UTC Northern Lincolnshire, the Armed Forces Hub, the Blue Door, Crosby Primary School, Lincoln Gardens Primary School and North Lincolnshire Council’s Fostering Team will each tell a unique story and stay in the area for families to enjoy after the trail has finished.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities, said: “We know how powerful stories are in shaping children’s confidence, imagination and love of learning.

“This trail brings reading to life in a way that feels exciting and accessible for every family – whether that’s through a visit to the library, a walk in the park, or simply spotting a familiar bear somewhere unexpected.”

The adventure officially begins on Saturday 11 July, as the trail launches alongside this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, themed Read to the Beat.

Families are invited to join the celebrations from 10am to 2pm across 20-21 Visual Arts Centre, Church Square and Scunthorpe Central, with a lively programme of music, storytelling and creative activities to kick-start a summer full of discovery.

The Bear Hunt trail builds on the long-standing commitment to reading and early literacy, from supporting families with free books for all children up to five through the Imagination Library scheme to keeping libraries open for longer so more people can discover, enjoy and share the love of books.

Keep an eye out for updates on our Facebook page and on the events page of the North Lincolnshire Council website.