The Story Museum, Oxford
Step into a world of imagination at The Story Museum, where stories come alive through immersive exhibits and enchanting experiences in Oxford.
Nestled in the heart of Oxford, The Story Museum celebrates the magic and power of stories through immersive, interactive exhibits and enchanting themed spaces. From the Whispering Wood to the Enchanted Library and the Small Worlds gallery for younger children, the museum offers a rich, multi-sensory experience that delights visitors of all ages. It also hosts special exhibitions, performances, and workshops, making it a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to storytelling.
A brief summary to The Story Museum
- 42 Pembroke St, Oxford, OX1 1BP, GB
- +441865807600
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book timed entry tickets in advance to secure your preferred visit time, especially during holidays and weekends.
- Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the immersive exhibits and enjoy live performances or workshops.
- Visit the Small Worlds gallery for engaging story experiences designed specifically for children aged 5 and under.
- Check the museum’s website before your visit for current exhibitions, special events, and any seasonal changes to opening hours.
- Take advantage of the museum’s accessibility features, including lifts and Changing Places toilets, for a comfortable visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Train and Walk
Arrive at Oxford Station, approximately a 15 to 20-minute walk to The Story Museum. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. No parking fees involved, but walking shoes recommended.
-
Local Bus
Take local buses serving Oxford city center with frequent service. Bus stops near Pembroke Street are within a 5-minute walk of the museum. Tickets cost around £2-£4 depending on the route and operator.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly at 42 Pembroke Street. Travel time varies by traffic but typically 10-20 minutes from Oxford Station. Expect fares from £5 to £12.
The Story Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Story Museum
A Celebration of Storytelling Magic
The Story Museum in Oxford is a unique cultural institution dedicated to the art and power of storytelling. Located at 42 Pembroke Street, this museum invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of stories through a variety of imaginative and interactive exhibits. It is designed to engage visitors of all ages, with a special focus on inspiring children and families. The museum’s mission is to bring stories to life, encouraging creativity, imagination, and a love of reading.Immersive Exhibits and Themed Spaces
Visitors enter through the Portal, a gateway between story worlds, and soon find themselves in a mysterious indoor forest known as the Whispering Wood, where every tree holds a secret or a tale. The Enchanted Library offers a magical space to explore classic and contemporary stories, while the Story Arcade presents interactive storytelling experiences. Younger children can delight in the Small Worlds gallery, a dedicated area for picture books, nursery rhymes, and traditional tales, designed to stimulate early literacy and play.Engaging Performances and Special Exhibitions
Beyond the permanent galleries, The Story Museum hosts a dynamic programme of events including live performances, family shows, workshops, and storytelling clubs. These activities deepen the visitor experience by bringing stories off the page and into vibrant life. Notable exhibitions, such as the "Here Be Dragons" co-curated by author Cressida Cowell, showcase creative collaborations and thematic explorations that captivate audiences and enrich the museum’s narrative landscape.Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
The museum is thoughtfully designed for accessibility, featuring functioning lifts, a Changing Places toilet, and wheelchair-friendly facilities throughout. Visitors can also enjoy the onsite café and gift shop, which offer refreshments and story-themed merchandise. The museum’s welcoming atmosphere is supported by passionate staff who engage visitors with enthusiasm and care, ensuring a memorable visit for all.Location and Surroundings
Situated centrally in Oxford, The Story Museum is conveniently close to other major attractions such as the Ashmolean Museum and the Bodleian Library, making it an ideal stop for a day of cultural exploration. The surrounding area is vibrant and historic, providing a rich context for the museum’s celebration of stories and imagination.Planning Your Visit
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 16:30, with extended hours on weekends during some seasons. Booking timed entry tickets in advance is recommended, especially during school holidays and peak periods. Typical visits range from 1 to 3.5 hours depending on how deeply visitors engage with the exhibits and activities. The Story Museum invites you to step into a world where stories come alive and imagination knows no bounds.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Jewry Marker
0.1 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Tom Tower
0.1 km
Historic Gothic bell tower by Christopher Wren at Christ Church, home to the iconic Great Tom bell and a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage.
Oxford Preservation Trust
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
0.2 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
The painted room
0.2 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
2.1
0.3 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.3 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Brasenose College
0.3 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
0.4 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Oxford Tours UK
0.4 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.4 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
0.4 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Clarendon Building
0.5 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.5 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Bridge of Sighs
0.5 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pembroke College
0.1 km
Discover Pembroke College, Oxford—a historic and serene academic haven blending centuries-old charm with modern vibrancy in the heart of the city.
Modern Art Oxford
0.1 km
Discover ever-changing contemporary art, immersive experiences, and creative community events at Modern Art Oxford.
Museum of Oxford
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s rich social history through interactive exhibits and community stories in the heart of historic Oxford Town Hall.
Oxford Town Hall
0.1 km
Discover Oxford Town Hall, a historic venue combining stunning architecture with diverse cultural events in the heart of Oxford.
Carfax Tower
0.1 km
Experience stunning views and rich history at the iconic Carfax Tower, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Oxford.
Christ Church
0.2 km
Discover Christ Church, Oxford’s unique college and cathedral with historic grandeur, iconic Harry Potter sites, and peaceful riverside meadows.
The Bear Inn, Oxford
0.2 km
Historic Oxford pub famed for its cozy atmosphere and extraordinary collection of over 4,500 necktie snippets from around the world.
Clarendon Centre Oxford
0.2 km
Compact and convenient shopping in the heart of Oxford, linking Cornmarket and Queen Street with top high street brands and eateries.
Christ Church War Memorial Garden
0.2 km
A serene garden in Oxford honoring Christ Church’s fallen heroes of WWI with tranquil paths and historic views.
Alice's Shop
0.2 km
Step into the real-life shop that inspired Alice in Wonderland, brimming with magical gifts and literary history in the heart of Oxford.
Oxford Souvenirs
0.2 km
Historic Oxford Covered Market: Over 50 independent shops and eateries under one iconic roof since 1774.
Christ Church Cathedral
0.2 km
Explore Oxford’s historic Christ Church Cathedral, a medieval architectural gem and iconic Harry Potter filming location with rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
The Covered Market
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s historic Covered Market: a vibrant arcade of independent shops, fresh produce, and unique local crafts beneath an iconic 18th-century roof.
Christ Church Picture Gallery
0.2 km
Discover a world-class collection of Old Master drawings and paintings in a serene modernist gallery within historic Christ Church College, Oxford.
Oxford University Press Bookshop
0.2 km
Discover the literary charm of Oxford at the Oxford University Press Bookshop, where every book tells a story and history comes alive.
Essential places to dine
OLD TOM PUB
0.0 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.2 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Dirty Bones Oxford
0.3 km
Savor bold American comfort food and creative cocktails in a lively Oxford setting inspired by New York City’s vibrant spirit.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Oxford
0.3 km
Victorian prison cells transformed into an atmospheric brasserie serving modern British cuisine and craft cocktails in Oxford's historic centre.
No.1 Ship Street
0.3 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.4 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
Vaults & Garden
0.4 km
Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
Thaikhun
0.4 km
Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Côte Oxford
0.4 km
Authentic French brasserie cuisine served in a warm, stylish setting at Oxford’s vibrant George Street.
Red Lion Oxford
0.4 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
Banana Tree Oxford
0.4 km
Lively Pan-Asian dining with extensive vegan options and vibrant flavors in the heart of Oxford’s George Street.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Oxford Blue Trading Ltd
0.0 km
Explore Oxford Blue Trading Ltd for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the charm and spirit of Oxford, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
MINOX Boutique
0.1 km
Oxford's premier luxury fashion boutique, curating over 50 designer brands with exceptional service and next-day delivery.
Oxford Gifts
0.1 km
Explore Oxford Gifts for unique souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies that celebrate the charm of Oxford.
Anthropologie
0.2 km
A beautifully styled boutique on Oxford’s High Street, offering women’s fashion, accessories, and unique home décor in a relaxed, bohemian-chic atmosphere.
The Crafters Emporium
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover eclectic fashion and unique home décor at Urban Outfitters Oxford Castle Street, where modern style meets historic charm.
Blue Boar Court, Alfred Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant Blue Boar Court Souvenir Shop in Oxford for unique gifts and local treasures that embody the city's rich culture and history.
Soctopus
0.2 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Goodies Oxford
0.2 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
0.2 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Menkind
0.2 km
Discover quirky gifts and gadgets for all ages at Menkind, Oxford’s vibrant treasure trove in the Westgate Centre.
Westgate Oxford
0.2 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Oxford’s city centre, blending modern retail with festive charm and cultural events.
Scriptum
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Oliver Bonas
0.2 km
Discover unique fashion and homeware with a joyful British spirit at Oliver Bonas in Oxford’s Westgate Shopping Centre.
Space Store Oxford
0.2 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
St Aldates
0.1 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
The Royal Blenheim
0.1 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
Hanks Bar
0.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
The House
0.1 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
The Varsity Club
0.2 km
Experience Oxford’s best rooftop views and vibrant nightlife at The Varsity Club, a stylish multi-floor venue blending cocktails, music, and cityscape charm.
All Bar One Oxford
0.2 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
Cow & Creek
0.2 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
The Alchemist Oxford
0.3 km
Experience Oxford’s theatrical cocktail bar blending innovative drinks and hearty American-inspired dishes in a lively, stylish setting.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
0.3 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
0.3 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
The Grapes
0.4 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
White Horse
0.5 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
OXO BAR
0.5 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The Lighthouse
0.5 km
A stylish riverside cocktail bar and tapas restaurant blending classic charm with modern flair in the heart of Oxford.
King's Arms, Oxford
0.5 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
0.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
0.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
0.6 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
0.6 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
0.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
0.6 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
31.5 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
The Venue, Bucks
37.4 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
37.4 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
37.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
38.1 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
38.1 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.2 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
38.4 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
40.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
