Created in partnership with Dartford Borough Council and Wild in Art, the free public art trail will transform Dartford into an outdoor gallery, bringing together local artists, schools, businesses and community groups while raising vital funds and challenging misconceptions about hospice care. The campaign aims to help more people understand the support ellenor provides to babies, children and adults living with life-limiting illness.
Inspired by the animated television adaptation of We're Going on a Bear Hunt, produced by Lupus Films, the trail uses a much-loved family story to create a large-scale public art event that raises vital funds for local hospice care across North Kent and Bexley.
But the art trail is about far more than bears.
For ellenor, it is also one of the biggest public awareness campaigns in the charity's history, introducing thousands of people to hospice care in a way that is fun, accessible and family-friendly.
Over the summer, families will discover 80 bear sculptures - including 31 big bears and 49 Bear Cubs - across Dartford town centre and surrounding locations. The trail runs until 13 September, after which selected sculptures will be auctioned in October to raise further funds for ellenor's specialist hospice services.
Sue Piper, Director of Income Generation at ellenor, said: "Many people still believe hospice care is only about the final days of life, but that's simply not the case. Every day we help babies, children and adults live as well as possible while supporting the families who care for them.
We're Going on a Bear Hunt gives us the chance to introduce thousands more people to ellenor in a new way. We hope families have a wonderful day out together, but we also hope they leave with a better understanding of what hospice care really is and the difference it makes to local families."
Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council said: “Today marks the start of a fantastic adventure across Dartford as our Bear Hunt officially begins. Inspired by the much-loved childhood classic ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’, this wonderful trail brings together art, community spirit, and family fun.
Talented artists have transformed each bear into a unique work of art, creating a free family activity that will encourage people to explore the borough. Whether you're tracking down every bear or simply enjoying a day out together, I hope families make some wonderful memories along the way. I'm also delighted that the trail is helping to shine a spotlight on the incredible work of ellenor, whose vital services make such a difference to local families.”
The project has been delivered by ellenor in partnership with Dartford Borough Council and Wild in Art, with the support of local businesses, schools, artists, community groups and hundreds of supporters who have helped bring the trail to life.
For more information, download the Bear Hunt app or visit the Dartford We're Going on a Bear Hunt website Dartford We're Going on a Bear Hunt 2026 - Art Trail
Photos - Nick Johnson – The Imageworks
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