Disney park guests visiting EPCOT this week were delighted to discover that Winnie the Pooh has returned to his original location for his meet and greet.
As noted on social media, you can now meet the beloved character in Christopher Robin's room, which is located toward the back of the UK pavilion.
For the last couple of years, the only way to interact with Winnie the Pooh was at a distance. The character had been moved to the big grassy lot near the Imagination Pavilion for a physically distanced encounter following the COVID-19 reopening protocals in Summer 2020. Guests could still interact with the character and take photos with him, but it was at a safe distance.
Although I enjoyed the more natural setting for Winnie the Pooh — watching him roam with his net just felt more authentic — it wasn't exactly a great photo opportunity. He did walk closer to the fence for photos, but it still wasn't as personal as an original meet and greet where you can throw your arms around the character for a big hug. Plus the setting of Christopher Robin's room makes for
an absolutely adorable backdrop for your photo.
It was a great alternative during the pandemic, but as restrictions have eased, it's time to go back to how things were originally.
There isn't any signage pointing to Winnie the Pooh's new location but it's pretty easy to spot as you head toward the back of the UK pavilion. Although the meet and greet is inside, the queue for it takes place outside; look for the green awning.
It's possible that not a ton of people know about his return to this location as reports are the line was pretty short. In pre-COVID times, the wait could get pretty long to meet him, so take advantage now.