The Storybarn

The Storybarn is a magical, multi-purpose family space at The Reader’s home in Calderstones Park.

Perfectly positioned in the heart of the park (and crucially, next to the Ice Cream Parlour), the Storybarn is a one-of-a-kind reading retreat for children and their grown-ups.

Little ones can let their imaginations run wild, discovering new stories to share, and taking part in unique experiences, alongside arts and crafts.

We love a good party here too, so celebrate your next birthday with us for a truly memorable experience.

The  Storybarn  is a fully inclusive experience and all children are welcome. If you  have any questions about facilities and access, call us on 0151 729 2227.

Read more about our accessibility here.

For under 1s

Teeny Tales

These stand-alone sessions include Shared Reading for grown-ups, rhyme time for the little ones, and a chance to explore the beautiful surroundings of the Storybarn.

Tiny Acorns

A warm and welcoming space to explore sharing stories together over six weeks.  We’ll share hints and tips to make reading with your little one fun as well as allowing time for a little relaxing Shared Reading for adults!

For 1-4 year olds

Incy Wincy Rhymers

Our sessions for little ones and their families. We’ll explore classic stories, family favourites and nursery rhymes through storytelling and sing-a-longs.

Incy Wincy Wanders

Bring you pre-schoolers along for a wander-full Wednesday morning. Take a story-themed stroll through Calderstones park with one of our Storyhunters every week.

Weekend Fun

Storybarn Drop-In

If you find yourself enjoying the park and fancy reading a story, why not pop in for one of our drop-in sessions? Let your imagination roam and share the delights of reading for pleasure in our imaginative play space.

Storybarn Relaxed Session

We are opening the doors of the Storybarn especially for families with autistic children and families with sensory conditions so they can come and enjoy our wonderful imaginative play space in a stress free environment.

Open Air Theatre

Pan and the Eternal Wreck

Wednesday 13 August

Festival favourites The Fabularium are back at Calderstones Park by popular demand with their wild and wondrous tale of two sailors from ancient cultures, thrown together after a terrible storm. Book tickets.

Open Air Cinema

Matilda the Musical

Wednesday 27 August

This riotous musical of Roald Dahl’s story about an extraordinary girl celebrates kindness, courage and taking a stand for what is right. Even if that means being a little bit naughty… Book tickets.

Wicked

Thursday 28 August

Take flight with this musical phenomenon featuring knockout performances, impossibly beautiful visuals and certified bangers. Pure magic. Book tickets.

School Visits

Our diary is open for Storybarn on the Road visits to you, Storybarn Visits to us AND our new KS2 Heritage Visits. We also have Christmas packages on offer too!