Full Breakdown
Blue Plaque Unveiled at Michael Bond’s Former Surrey Home
8/23/2026, 8:20:30 AM
Background: Bond’s Years in Haslemere
Michael Bond, the author who created Paddington Bear, moved to the Fairacre house in Haslemere, Surrey, in 1968. Over the next decade he wrote several Paddington books and the scripts for the original television series. Bond died in 2017 at the age of 91.
Event Details and Participants
A blue plaque commemorating Bond’s residence was installed on the property with the consent of the current owners, Steph and Neil Stephenson. The unveiling took place on a Saturday, attended by Bond’s daughter, Karen Jankel, who presented the family with a special gift. Haslemere Society chairman Chris Harrison described the occasion as “lovely” and noted that the Paddington bear was a childhood favourite of Jankel’s.
Official Statements & Responses
Steph Stephenson told BBC Radio Surrey that the society’s letter alerting them to the house’s fame was a surprise. She said the family had only suspected Bond had lived there and were unsure what the recognition would entail. Chris Harrison, speaking for the Haslemere Society, called the plaque “lovely” and highlighted the personal connection to the beloved character.
Verbatim Quote
“It was exciting. We had suspected that he'd lived here, but really had no idea what that meant, or how long he'd even lived here for,” — Steph
What This Means for the Community
The plaque adds a cultural landmark to Haslemere, linking the town to a globally recognised literary figure. It also underscores the role of local heritage groups, such as the Haslemere Society, in preserving and promoting literary history.
