Winnie-the-Pooh Turns 100: The Book, the Bear and the Collectibles

Winnie-the-Pooh was first published on October 14, 1926, which makes the bear 100 years old on October 14, 2026. The book was written by A. A. Milne and illustrated by E. H. Shepard. A century later, Pooh is still one of the most recognised characters in the world, and one of the few who works as well on a design shelf as in a nursery.

When was Winnie-the-Pooh first published?

The first book, titled simply Winnie-the-Pooh, was published in London by Methuen on October 14, 1926. A second volume of stories, The House at Pooh Corner, followed in 1928. The publication history is set out on Wikipedia's page on the book.

Where does Winnie-the-Pooh come from?

• The bear. Pooh was based on a teddy bear owned by Milne's son, Christopher Robin Milne.
• The name. "Winnie" came from Winnipeg, a Canadian black bear Christopher Robin visited at London Zoo. "Pooh" was the name he had given to a swan.
• The place. The Hundred Acre Wood was inspired by Ashdown Forest in East Sussex, England, where the Milne family had a home.
• The drawings. E. H. Shepard's illustrations gave Pooh the look that readers knew for forty years before the animated version appeared in 1966.

Key dates in 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh

How do you mark the centenary with a design piece?

French studio Leblon Delienne reworks classic characters as pop-art sculpture in resin, designed in France. Its Winnie the Pooh shows the bear with his balloon and comes in original, glossy and matt finishes. This piece is made to order, so check the delivery time on the product page.

Winnie the Pooh Figurine

Pooh and his balloon as a resin pop-art sculpture, in six finishes. From €310

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Which other classic characters are in stock?

If you want a piece that ships now, these two Leblon Delienne figurines are in stock. You can also browse all figurines and sculptures.

Uncle Scrooge Figurine

The richest duck in comics, in resin. From €247

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Mickey Welcome 30cm Figurine

Mickey Mouse with open arms, 30 cm tall, in several finishes. From €190

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For another character with a long history, read our Snoopy home decor guide.

Frequently asked questions

How old is Winnie-the-Pooh in 2026?

The book turns 100 on October 14, 2026.

Who wrote and illustrated Winnie-the-Pooh?

A. A. Milne wrote the stories and E. H. Shepard illustrated them.

Why is he called Winnie-the-Pooh?

Winnie was a real bear at London Zoo, named after Winnipeg in Canada. Pooh was the name Christopher Robin had given a swan.