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), 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!

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

Tiny Acorns

Join us for six weeks of warm and welcoming sessions to enjoy exploring stories with your baby, alongside a small group of other new parents.  Led by one of our wonderful Storyhunters, you’ll get hints and tips on how to make reading with your little one fun, as well as allowing time for a little relaxing Shared Reading for grown ups.

Baby Drop-In: Thursday’s 12:30-2:30pm

Come and enjoy the Storybarn at your own pace and simply join when you and your baby are ready (nap times and epic nappy changes permitting) and stay as long as you like.

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 – Paused until Spring 2026

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.

November dates:

Saturday 22 & Sunday 23 November 9.30am-12pm

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.

Mini Movies: The Gruffalo’s Child (2011)
Friday 19 & Tuesday 23 December, 11:00

One wild and windy night, the Gruffalo’s child bravely tiptoes out into the snow in search of the Big Bad Mouse. She meets Snake, Owl and Fox, but there is no sign of the fabled Mouse. He doesn’t really exist… or does he? Book tickets.

Mini Movies: Stick Man (2015)
Saturday 20 & Wednesday 24 December

When Stick Man drifts far from the family tree, he takes an epic journey to make it home in time for Christmas. Book tickets.

Home Alone (1990)
Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 December

The icing on the Christmas cake of film traditions. Adorable 8-year old Kevin finds himself home all alone as he battles with two con men to protect the family home. Book tickets.

Elf (2003)
Sunday 21 & Tuesday 23 December

Equal parts silliness and sweetness (thanks to lashings of syrup!) – it’s impossible not to be charmed by Buddy the Elf and his devotion to the true spirit of Christmas. Heartwarming festive fun. Book tickets.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Monday 22 December

This beloved adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic book fizzes with unforgettable songs, laugh out loud one-liners and an iconic performance from Michael Caine. True movie magic as only the Muppets could do. Book tickets.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Tuesday 23 December

Dr Seuss’ beloved story is brought to life on the big screen in a whirlwind of mischief and mayhem. Jim Carrey fully embodies all of the chaos of the Grinch who learns how to love Christmas. 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!