Seven Stories: The National Centre for Children's Books in Newcastle
Discover the magic of children's books at Seven Stories, Newcastle’s vibrant national centre for storytelling, exhibitions, and family fun.
Seven Stories in Newcastle upon Tyne is the UK's National Centre for Children's Books, dedicated to celebrating the magic of children's literature through immersive exhibitions, storytelling events, and creative workshops. Housed in a converted warehouse in the vibrant Ouseburn Valley, it offers free entry to galleries featuring original manuscripts, artwork, and interactive play areas, making it a captivating destination for families and book lovers alike.
A brief summary to Seven Stories
- 30 Lime St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2PQ, GB
- +443003301095
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book popular storytimes and workshops in advance to secure your spot, as they fill up quickly.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around the creative Ouseburn Valley for a fuller day out.
- Take advantage of the free entry to galleries but consider donating to support the centre’s work.
- Enjoy the specialist children’s bookshop and cafes for a relaxed break during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Tyne and Wear Metro to Manors Station, then walk approximately 15 minutes through Ouseburn Valley to reach Seven Stories. Metro tickets cost around £3-£5 depending on the starting point. Service frequency is every 10-15 minutes during the day.
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Bus
Several local bus routes, including the 40 and 43, stop near Lime Street, a 5-minute walk from Seven Stories. Buses run every 15-20 minutes with tickets costing about £2-£4. Check local timetables for exact schedules.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis or rideshare services from Newcastle city centre take around 10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £6-£10. This is a convenient option for families or visitors with mobility needs.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Newcastle city centre, a walk to Seven Stories takes about 20-30 minutes along mostly flat urban terrain, suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Seven Stories location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Seven Stories
A Treasure Trove of Children's Literature
Seven Stories stands as the UK's only national centre dedicated exclusively to children's books. Located in a striking former warehouse beneath the Byker Bridge in Newcastle's creative Ouseburn Valley, it houses a rich collection of original manuscripts, rough drafts, and unique artwork from some of Britain's most celebrated authors and illustrators. The centre preserves and celebrates the heritage of British children's literature, offering visitors a chance to explore the stories and creative processes behind beloved classics.Engaging Exhibitions and Interactive Experiences
The centre's three floors of galleries invite visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the world of storytelling. Exhibitions feature enchanting displays such as the Wild Woods, which bring to life magical realms inspired by authors like J.K. Rowling and Philip Pullman. Interactive spaces encourage children to play, dress up, and engage with stories through crafts, dramatic play, and workshops. Special themed rooms, like the Winnie the Witch and Wilbur area, offer hands-on fun with activities such as cooking up spells or drawing on magical chalkboards.A Welcoming Space for Families and Creatives
Seven Stories is designed to be accessible and inclusive, with lifts serving all seven floors and facilities such as hearing loops and sensory-friendly sessions. The centre hosts regular storytelling events, craft workshops, and relaxed performances tailored to different age groups and needs. Its specialist children’s bookshop and cozy cafes provide perfect spots to browse, relax, and refuel, with a selection of books for all ages and tastes. The venue also supports local communities through online and school programming.Setting and Surroundings in Ouseburn Valley
Nestled in the artistic heart of Newcastle, the Ouseburn Valley offers a vibrant cultural backdrop with green spaces, riverside walks, and nearby attractions like Ouseburn Farm. The building’s industrial heritage contrasts beautifully with the imaginative world inside, creating a unique atmosphere where creativity and history meet. Visitors often combine their trip to Seven Stories with exploring this dynamic neighborhood.Events, Accessibility, and Visitor Support
Seven Stories operates with free general admission, encouraging donations to support its mission. It offers a range of paid and free activities, including immersive story readings and seasonal productions such as festive pantomimes. The centre is committed to accessibility, providing ear defenders, accessible toilets with changing facilities, and monthly early openings for visitors with autism. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the welcoming environment.Celebrating the Power of Storytelling
More than a museum, Seven Stories is a vibrant hub for creativity, imagination, and learning. It invites visitors to rediscover childhood favorites, explore new stories, and even create their own. Whether you are a family, a literary enthusiast, or simply curious, this centre offers a magical journey through the world of children’s books that inspires all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Buildings
0.3 km
An intimate live music venue in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, perfect for discovering new bands and enjoying craft beers in a laid-back, buzzing atmosphere.
William Coulson Monument
0.4 km
A historic bronze tribute to William Coulson, Newcastle’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate, with unique drinking troughs for animals.
Blacksmiths Needle
0.6 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
0.7 km
Explore the Jess Moore Memorial Wall in Newcastle upon Tyne, a heartfelt tribute to love and community resilience that reflects the spirit of the local culture.
River God
0.7 km
An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Mermaid
0.7 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
The Custom House Plaque
1.0 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
Quayside
1.2 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
The Guildhall
1.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
King John's Palace
1.3 km
Explore the fortified ruins of a 13th-century manor house in Newcastle’s Heaton Park, steeped in medieval history and royal intrigue.
Castle Wall Well
1.3 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
Grey St
1.3 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
The Black Gate
1.3 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Newcastle Keep
1.3 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
1.4 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd
0.1 km
A vibrant urban farm and charity in Newcastle offering free access to animals, gardens, and sustainable community experiences.
Victoria Tunnel Tours
0.3 km
Walk through wartime darkness in Newcastle's hidden underground—a Victorian coal tunnel transformed into WWII shelter.
The Biscuit Factory
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s largest independent contemporary art gallery set in a historic warehouse, blending creativity, culture, and community.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
0.7 km
A graceful tilting bridge spanning the Tyne, linking culture and city with iconic elegance and stunning river views.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
0.7 km
A striking riverside hub for cutting-edge contemporary art in a converted flour mill with panoramic Tyne views.
Quayside Sunday Market
1.0 km
A lively riverside market blending historic charm, artisan crafts, and vibrant street food every Sunday along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside.
Bonkers About Alice
1.0 km
A vibrant Sunday market along the River Tyne showcasing local crafts, food, and culture in Newcastle’s iconic Quayside setting.
Trinity House
1.0 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
1.0 km
A world-class music venue and education centre on Gateshead Quayside where music lives, grows, and inspires all ages.
Book stack
1.1 km
A striking Gothic Revival landmark blending Newcastle’s religious heritage with modern academic life on Northumberland Road.
All Saints Church
1.1 km
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
Laing Art Gallery
1.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s artistic heritage through historic and contemporary masterpieces at the Laing Art Gallery, a vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
Campus Cat
1.1 km
Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.
Tyne Bridge
1.2 km
Discover the iconic Tyne Bridge, a stunning feat of engineering and a symbol of Newcastle's rich heritage, offering breathtaking views and historical significance.
Side Photographic Gallery
1.2 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Essential places to dine
Cook House
0.1 km
Discover the flavors of Newcastle at Cook House - where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
Gusto Italian
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside at Gusto Italian.
Victors Newcastle
0.7 km
Experience modern Asian-inspired cuisine and vibrant cocktails under the wisteria on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside waterfront.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Newcastle
0.7 km
Stylish modern British dining and boutique hotel luxury on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside with riverside views and exclusive private rooms.
SIX Rooftop at BALTIC
0.7 km
Elegant rooftop dining atop the BALTIC Centre with stunning views, seasonal British cuisine, and a stylish bar in Gateshead’s cultural heart.
Tomahawk Steakhouse - Newcastle
0.8 km
Premium steakhouse on Newcastle’s Quayside offering expertly cooked tomahawk steaks and a vibrant riverside dining experience.
21
0.9 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal flair and French influences in Newcastle’s stylish Trinity Gardens setting.
The Broad Chare
1.0 km
A lively gastropub on Newcastle’s Quayside blending traditional British fare with seasonal, locally sourced excellence.
Dobson and Parnell
1.1 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
1.1 km
Newcastle’s only fresh pasta bar, serving hand-rolled egg pasta daily in a relaxed city-centre setting with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
As You Like It
1.1 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Aveika
1.2 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Uno's Trattoria
1.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
Fratello's
1.2 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Native Cave Restaurant And Bar
1.2 km
A cozy Newcastle seafood haven famed for its irresistible seafood boil and authentic, flavorful dishes in a casual setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bibelot Nook
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and unique homewares at Bibelot Nook, Newcastle’s hub for sustainable style and local artistry.
37 Studios
0.5 km
Stylish accessories by the Tyne: Discover unique jewelry and bags at this Quayside boutique in Newcastle's creative heart.
Flea Circus
0.6 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant vintage hub blending retro style, handmade crafts, and unique collectibles all under one roof.
What About This
0.9 km
Explore Byker's vibrant ladies' clothing shop, 'What About This', where unique styles and local charm meet in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Quayside News
1.2 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
1.2 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Corner Shop
1.2 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
UpSide Down Presents
1.3 km
A vibrant, independent gift shop under Newcastle’s railway arch, packed with Geordie souvenirs, original cards, and quirky presents for every occasion.
Souvenirs upon Tyne
1.3 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
The Vintage Scene Newcastle
1.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at The Vintage Scene Newcastle, a curated boutique for eclectic style lovers in the city center.
Elula
1.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s mystical gift shop offering unique jewellery, crystals, and spiritual treasures in a cozy, artistic setting with a welcoming café below.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
1.4 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
The Works
1.4 km
Affordable books, arts, crafts, and toys in the heart of Newcastle’s bustling Eldon Square Shopping Centre.
Waceland
1.4 km
Discover unique vintage and streetwear treasures in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade, where style meets sustainability and family values.
Earl and Coco
1.4 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Billy Bootleggers
0.1 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
The Tyne Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant hub for craft beer, live music, and community spirit nestled in Newcastle’s creative Ouseburn Valley.
Free Trade Inn
0.5 km
A historic riverside pub in Newcastle offering craft beers, stunning Tyne views, and a warm, lively atmosphere all day long.
Pitcher & Piano Newcastle
0.6 km
A multi-level Quayside bar with panoramic Tyne views, long cocktails and a lively weekend vibe for groups and riverfront people-watching.
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.8 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
The Head of Steam Quayside
1.0 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
Holy Hobo
1.2 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
Alvinos Bar
1.2 km
A lively Italian-owned bar in Newcastle with creative cocktails, craft brews, live DJs, and a welcoming multi-floor setting on Pilgrim Street.
The Market Lane
1.2 km
Affectionately the 'Monkey Bar,' this Pilgrim Street pub pours quality pints and fosters lively vibes with sports screens, live music, and classic British charm in Newcastle's heart.
Lady Greys
1.2 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
The Punch Bowl
1.2 km
Jesmond's wood-paneled gem: quirky wines, world tapas, epic roasts, and a lively vibe in a classic pub setting.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
1.3 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
All Bar One Newcastle
1.3 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
The Exchange
1.3 km
Discover The Exchange, Newcastle’s speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a cozy alcove, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
Mother Mercy
1.4 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
1.1 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
1.3 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Greys Club
1.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Flares - Newcastle
1.3 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Tup Tup Palace
1.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
1.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
1.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
1.4 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
Bohemia Newcastle
1.4 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
Popworld - Newcastle
1.4 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
The Social Club
1.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Sinners
1.6 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Cosmic Ballroom
1.8 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Digital
2.0 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
2.1 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
