Seven Stories Newcastle
The UK's national centre for children's literature, housed in a Victorian warehouse, offering free galleries and interactive storytelling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for toddlers
Seven Stories Newcastle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for toddlers
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The UK's national centre for children's literature, housed in a Victorian warehouse, offering free galleries and interactive storytelling.
"An amazing place for lovers of children's literature, plenty of space for children to explore and create."
🎯 Book Paid Activities Early
Popular storytimes & workshops fill up fast! Check the schedule and book ahead online.
🚶♀️ Explore Ouseburn Valley
Combine your visit with a stroll through this creative quarter.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Judith Kerr Exhibitions
Galleries
Immerse yourself in the beloved worlds of 'The Tiger Who Came to Tea' and 'Mog'.
Interactive Storytelling
Event Spaces
Engage with live performances and craft workshops that bring children's books to life.
The Bookshop & Cafe
Ground Floor
Browse a vast collection of children's literature and enjoy refreshments in a welcoming atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Paid Activities
Ouseburn Valley Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Paid Activities Early
Popular storytimes & workshops fill up fast! Check the schedule and book ahead online.
🚶♀️ Explore Ouseburn Valley
Combine your visit with a stroll through this creative quarter.
☕ Relax in the Cafe
Friendly staff and good refreshments make it a great spot to refuel.
📚 Free Entry, Donate if you can
Enjoy the galleries and bookshop for free, but consider a donation to support their work.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Paid Activities Early
Popular storytimes & workshops fill up fast! Check the schedule and book ahead online.
🚶♀️ Explore Ouseburn Valley
Combine your visit with a stroll through this creative quarter.
☕ Relax in the Cafe
Friendly staff and good refreshments make it a great spot to refuel.
📚 Free Entry, Donate if you can
Enjoy the galleries and bookshop for free, but consider a donation to support their work.
🧸 Interactive Play Areas
Kids can hide, play, and interact with giant book characters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Seven Stories as a magical and inspiring destination for children and adults alike, praising its free entry to galleries, engaging exhibitions like Judith Kerr's, and interactive storytelling sessions. Some reviewers noted that certain areas were closed or required paid entry, leading to disappointment, and suggested more free activities during peak times.
"Really enjoyed the Judith kerr exhibitions. Having seen the tiger one in York a few years ago, I loved the new mog one. Excellent bookshop too."
Charlotte Whiteing
"I adore this children's literature-themed place very much. The first floor is the bookshop and a big cafe. The second to fourth floors are galleries for presenting different authors’ artworks. It was very nice to see how many cute hand drawings and decor they demonstrated. I like how they designed some places for kids to hide and play. Also, they have giant toys displayed on two floors which are based on the characters from children’s books. It is such an amazing combo of a bookshop and galleries to go to, especially for kids with their families."
Etheria H
"Came today for our first time after seeing good things about it on social media and after reading the good reviews on Google. My daughter is a big reader so I thought this place would be brilliant for her but we left feeling fairly disappointed. We were only able to visit 2 of the rooms as the rest were either closed or had paid-for activities running in them which we had no idea about. We saw the Tiger exhibit and the Famous Five one. Apart from that, we couldn't see anything else and were really gutted not to be able to see the Mog exhibit. Glad it was free, I would've been really annoyed if I had to pay an entry fee. There could be a lot more available to see, especially during the summer holidays"
Rebecca Forsyth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Seven Stories is located in the Ouseburn Valley. You can reach it by public transport, including the #ToonTour hop-on hop-off bus (Stop 9). It's also accessible via the Baltic lift for scenic views. Driving and parking information can be found on their website.
Yes! Seven Stories is very toddler-friendly, with free entry and specific activities like 'The Tiger Who Came to Tea' storytime. The interactive spaces are great for little ones to explore.
Opening hours can vary, especially for specific events. It's best to check the official Seven Stories website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and event schedules.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at Seven Stories, there are several car parks in the Ouseburn Valley area. Consider public transport or the hop-on hop-off bus to simplify your visit.
Seven Stories is generally pushchair-friendly, with lifts available to access different floors. However, it's always a good idea to check with the venue directly if you have specific accessibility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Seven Stories, including access to the galleries and bookshop, is free. However, many of the special storytelling sessions and workshops have a separate charge.
The cost for storytelling sessions can vary, with some priced around £2 per child. It's recommended to check the Seven Stories website for current pricing and to book tickets in advance, as these events can sell out.
While general entry is free, booking is highly recommended for paid activities like storytelling sessions and workshops to guarantee your spot.
Seven Stories offers free general admission. For paid events, check their website for any potential family ticket deals or concessions. It's also worth noting that donations are welcomed to support their work.
Absolutely! You can enjoy exploring the bookshop, browsing the exhibitions, and using the play areas without booking a paid session.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Seven Stories is designed for children of all ages, from toddlers to older kids. The interactive exhibits and storytelling sessions cater to a wide range of developmental stages.
Exhibitions often focus on beloved children's authors and illustrators, such as Judith Kerr ('The Tiger Who Came to Tea', 'Mog') and Julia Donaldson. They showcase original artwork and manuscripts.
Yes, Seven Stories offers a variety of activities including interactive storytelling, craft workshops, dressing up, and play areas. Some activities are included with entry, while others require booking.
Seven Stories aims to be accessible, with lifts available to access different floors. It's advisable to contact them directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.
Definitely! Adults can appreciate the history of children's literature, the original artwork, and the nostalgic charm of the exhibitions. It's a great place for adults to share their childhood favorites with younger generations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Seven Stories has a cafe on the first floor offering refreshments and snacks. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the exhibitions.
While there's a cafe available, it's generally best to check Seven Stories' policy on bringing outside food. Some visitors mention enjoying ice cream from nearby vendors.
The cafe typically offers a selection of drinks, cakes, and light meals. Reviews mention friendly staff and good refreshments.
The Ouseburn Valley has several pubs and cafes that are family-friendly, offering more dining choices if needed.
Prices at the cafe are generally considered reasonable for a visitor attraction.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use inside Seven Stories, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions within certain exhibitions or during events.
The interactive displays, giant book characters, and the unique architecture of the Victorian warehouse offer great photo opportunities. The Judith Kerr exhibitions are particularly popular for photos.
While there aren't typically costumed characters roaming, the giant book character displays provide excellent photo opportunities. You might also find photo booths or craft activities that encourage creative shots.
Seven Stories is located in the Ouseburn Valley, and while it's not a viewpoint itself, the surrounding area and the nearby Baltic lift offer great photographic perspectives of the valley and the city.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, as some areas may be dimly lit to enhance the exhibition atmosphere. A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing memories.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Top tip: Pack snacks or plan to visit the cafe for a treat. The relaxed atmosphere and child-friendly environment make it easy to spend a few hours here. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds.
📚 Book Lovers and Literary Enthusiasts
Don't miss: The chance to see original illustrations up close and learn about the inspirations behind your favorite childhood stories. Consider attending author events or talks if available during your visit.
🎒 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Save more: Pack your own lunch or snacks to enjoy in the designated areas, or simply enjoy a coffee from the cafe. The free entry to the main attractions makes it a fantastic value day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Children's Literature
From the whimsical worlds of Judith Kerr to the adventures of Julia Donaldson, Seven Stories celebrates the rich heritage of children's books. The exhibitions are thoughtfully designed to be immersive and educational, often featuring hands-on activities that encourage creativity and imagination. It's more than just a museum; it's a vibrant hub for literary exploration and family fun.
Key takeaway: Seven Stories offers a unique journey into the heart of children's literature, making it a must-visit for book lovers and families. The combination of free entry to galleries and paid, engaging workshops makes it accessible and exciting for all.
Interactive Experiences for Young Minds
Beyond the permanent displays, Seven Stories hosts a regular schedule of live storytelling sessions and craft workshops. These events are often led by enthusiastic facilitators who bring stories to life through performance and engaging activities. They are particularly popular during school holidays and weekends, offering a dynamic way for children to connect with books and develop their creative skills. Booking for these paid sessions is highly recommended due to their popularity.
Pro-tip: Look out for themed storytelling sessions that align with current exhibitions or popular book releases. These often provide a more focused and immersive experience for young visitors.
Location and Accessibility in Ouseburn Valley
The building, a former warehouse, has been thoughtfully adapted to house the centre. Lifts are available to ensure accessibility across all seven floors, making it easier for visitors with pushchairs or mobility challenges to navigate the space. The surrounding Ouseburn Valley also offers additional attractions and green spaces, making it a pleasant area to explore before or after your visit to Seven Stories.
Getting around: Consider combining your visit with a walk along the river or exploring the nearby Ouseburn Farm for a fuller day out in this dynamic part of Newcastle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit