Caledonian
Bears
The Old Smiddy, Neptune's Staircase,
Banavie Canal,
Fort William PH33 7NF
Tel: 01397 700520
Located in an early 19th century
cottage built by Thomas Telford for the servicing of the
Caledonian Canal, Caledonian Bears is a friendly,
family business that makes and sells specialist Teddy bears.
But these are no ordinary bears - they are so well designed
and made that they have, since the firm was founded ten years
ago, become collectors items, and in some cases valuable
family heirlooms. They are hand-made by Cass Macdougall and
Morven Mackenzie, and no two bears are the same. Each one is
made from the very best of materials with some dressed in
tartan, some in Scottish tweed, and some in cosy woollen hats
and sweaters.
The
bears have featured in Country Living Magazine and Teddy
Bear Times UK, and are generating interest among serious
collectors. Plus, of course, they make the perfect gift for a
loved one or a souvenir of your visit to Scotland. The large,
jointed Teddy bears are 18 inches tall and weigh over three
pounds. The smaller bears are 16 inches tall and are unjointed,
each one having a name such as "Wee Calum",
"Wee Bridie", "Wee Shona" and "Wee
Jock". Each teddy comes with its own birth certificate.
The prices are all surprisingly realistic, and are valuable
collectors' items rather than children's toys. For this
reason, it is not recommended you buy one as a plaything, as
they are not suitable for children.