Some people may have noticed that all the lovely, cuddly and characterful bears have disappeared from the window of Asquiths World Famous Teddy Bear Shop in New Street, Henley-on-Thames.

Fear not, they have not been bear-knapped or gone on a mass picnic in the woods, they have just packed their little suitcases and moved around the corner to a beautiful new home in Hart Street.

In 1984 Joan Bland established Asquiths which was the first specialist teddy bear shop in the UK, is now world famous and synonymous with the beautiful market town of Henley.

Joan says, “We are absolutely delighted to inform all customers, loyal and new, that as of 25^th March 2023 Asquiths will move to its new Grade II listed home at 26 Hart Street, a short stroll from the river Thames, where proud new owner, Rachel Hollinrake, will open the doors for the very first time to welcome everyone into the brand new Asquiths Teddy Bear Shop!”

Staying true to the essence of Asquiths and its incredible reputation, the Teddy Bear Shop will continue to offer the beautiful traditional Teddy Bears from some of the most historically famous Teddy Bear companies around the world and from here in the UK, whilst also introducing exciting new sustainable and up and coming small independent brands adding some cheeky and playful characters. Rachel is excited to bring to Henley some fantastic new ranges from the softest rabbits to the most adorable mice. From one off collectable bears to soft furry friends there is something for everyone to enjoy at every budget!

Rachel Hollinrake who has welcomed the bears into their new ‘bearpawium’ says, “Owning a Teddy Bear Shop is a lifelong ambition of mine and I am so very proud and honoured to be taking on Asquiths, I have admired the shop for many years and everything that Joan has done – she has built a worldwide reputation for Asquiths over the last 39 years and I honoured to be carrying the huge responsibility of preserving and developing the Asquiths legacy. I am looking forward to working alongside the many lovely independents shops in Henley and being part of the retail community and thank everyone so far for their support, encouragement and warm welcome “ ‘

The new quirky bear den is due to open it’s door at 26, Hart Street on Saturday 25th March.