The Story Museum, Oxford: A Magical Journey Through Stories
Step into a world of imagination and storytelling at Oxford’s enchanting Story Museum, where tales come to life for all ages.
Located in the heart of Oxford, The Story Museum celebrates the power of storytelling through immersive, interactive exhibits designed for all ages. Visitors can explore enchanting spaces like the Whispering Wood, Enchanted Library, and Small Worlds gallery, making it a captivating destination for families and story lovers alike. The museum also features a café, gift shop, and hosts a variety of events and workshops.
A brief summary to The Story Museum
- 42 Pembroke St, Oxford, OX1 1BP, GB
- +441865807600
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance, especially during school holidays and weekends, to ensure entry and avoid disappointment.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours for your visit, or longer if you want to fully explore all interactive exhibits and temporary exhibitions.
- Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more immersive experience.
- Use Oxford’s Park and Ride system or public transport to avoid limited and expensive city centre parking.
- Check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and special events to enhance your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From London Paddington or London Marylebone, take a train to Oxford Station, with journey times between 60 and 90 minutes. The museum is a 10-15 minute walk from the station. Trains run approximately every 30 minutes. Tickets typically cost £15-£30 one way.
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Bus
Local buses run frequently to Oxford city centre, serving stops near Pembroke Street. The Oxford Bus Company offers multiple routes with tickets around £2-£5 per ride. The museum is a short walk from central bus stops.
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Car and Parking
City centre parking is limited and expensive. The nearest public car parks are Westgate Shopping Centre and Oxpens car park, both about 5 minutes’ walk away. Using Oxford’s Park and Ride system is recommended to avoid congestion and high parking fees.
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Cycling
Oxford is a cycling-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes. Cycle parking is available on Broad Street and near Oxford Station, making biking a convenient and eco-friendly option.
The Story Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Story Museum
A Celebration of Storytelling in Oxford
The Story Museum is a unique cultural venue dedicated to the art and power of stories. Situated at 42 Pembroke Street in central Oxford, it invites visitors to step into a world where stories come alive through imaginative and interactive exhibits. The museum’s mission is to inspire creativity and literacy by engaging visitors of all ages in the magic of storytelling.Immersive Exhibits and Themed Spaces
Inside, you’ll find a range of captivating environments designed to spark the imagination. The Whispering Wood offers a mysterious indoor forest where every tree tells a tale. The Enchanted Library allows guests to wander through storybook settings, while the Small Worlds gallery caters especially to younger children with picture books, nursery rhymes, and traditional tales. Other highlights include the City of Stories film experience and the Story Arcade, which explores gaming and storytelling.Engaging Experiences for All Ages
The museum is designed to be family-friendly but also appeals to adults and solo visitors who appreciate immersive storytelling. Interactive displays, hands-on activities, and live performances in the studio theatre enrich the experience. Temporary exhibitions such as the acclaimed Here Be Dragons showcase the museum’s commitment to fresh and exciting content.Facilities and Visitor Amenities
Visitors can enjoy a café offering refreshments and a gift shop filled with story-themed merchandise. The museum is fully accessible, featuring lifts and a Changing Places toilet to accommodate visitors with disabilities. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with extended hours on weekends.Location and Surroundings
Nestled in Oxford’s vibrant city centre, The Story Museum is within walking distance of Oxford Station and other iconic attractions like the Ashmolean Museum and Bodleian Library. The area is pedestrian-friendly, and cycling is popular with designated parking nearby. Due to limited city centre parking, public transport and Park and Ride options are recommended.Events and Educational Programs
Beyond its galleries, The Story Museum hosts a rich programme of workshops, family shows, clubs, and skills-building courses that engage visitors in storytelling traditions and creative arts. These events foster community involvement and encourage lifelong learning through stories.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
