Norwich: The Bear Shop in Elm Hill is a collector's dream

Tucked away in the historic street is the shop of every teddy lover's dream – The Bear Shop, which has been open since 1989.  

When Robert Stone first viewed the premises it was derelict but within a couple of months the shop was open and the living space above was transformed.

Now they sell collectables from prices as low as £19.99, all the way up to rare bears worth in excess of £700 and £800.

Robert said: “I love the property, in which I live and work. So much history although I could live without the icy draughts!” 

Robert Stone, owner of The Bear Shop in Elm Hill, with a couple of limited edition Charlie Bears and an artist one of a bear made by Conradi Creation, centre (Image: Denise Bradley)

Before opening The Bear Shop, Robert worked for the Electricity Board in advertising. It was a trip to a teddy bear museum that sparked his passion for cuddly toys.  

All staff in the store own one of the special bears. Vanessa Chainey owns a Charlie Bear which she bought when she first started there.  

Vanessa Chainey cuddles two Merrythought bears, a classic Winnie-the-Pooh Edward bear, left, and the design A.A. Milne bought for his son, at The Bear Shop in Elm Hill (Image: Denise Bradley)

But in the eyes of an expert, what makes a good quality bear?  

Robert said: “The materials and workmanship, mostly.  

“The best bears are made from natural fabrics such as mohair or alpaca fur, both of which are sheared so do not require the death of the animal.  

There are so many different styles to choose from (Image: Denise Bradley)

“When it comes to artist bears, we look at the workmanship and design particularly the stitching on the feet and paw pads, and the nose.  

“You might not think it but an artist's nose design can be very individual.” 

Staff believe that everyone should have a bear to travel with. They describe it as a special friend when you are little to keep into adulthood.  

An Elton John Steiff bear at The Bear Shop in Elm Hill (Image: Denise Bradley)

Robert said: “Everyone’s idea of a perfect bear will be different so when choosing a bear, we encourage folk to look at expressions – they will speak to you.  

“We often say a bear will choose you and not the other way around.” 

Vanessa Chainey combs a one of one Bagster Bear at The Bear Shop in Elm Hill (Image: Denise Bradley)

The store also sells online and has bears from various artists and brands, including Clemens, Steiff, Paddington and Winnie the Pooh.

“We think we have one of the largest assortments of bears in the country, with dozens of different artists and all the top brands,” added Robert.  

Robert was inspired to open the shop when he visited a teddy bear museum (Image: Denise Bradley)