Seven Stories - The National Centre for Children's Books is a museum and visitor centre dedicated to children's literature and based in the Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne, close to the city's newly regenerated quayside. The renovated Victorian mill in which it is housed has seven levels.
Opening Times
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday: 10:00 - 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 - 17:00
Friday: 10:00 - 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 - 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 - 16:00
*Bank Holiday Mondays
OPEN: 10:00-16:00
*School Holidays
Monday-Saturday: 10:00-17:00
Sundays: 10:00-16:00
Accessibility
Accessible car parking
There is one designated parking space for visitors with a disability located on Lime Street.
Max Card holders
Max Card holders get free admission for a family of four.
To get a Max Card, Visit the Newcastle County Council website and join the Disabled Children's Register. Foster carers who are registered can request a Max Card through the Council.
Entrance to Seven Stories
Visitors with a disability pay a concessionary rate and carers’ entrance is free.
Entrance to Seven Stories is at street level via Lime Street. From here, there is lift and stair access to all levels.
Early Bird Opening
Every first Saturday of the month, 9am-10am. For Visitors with an autistic spectrum condition
We appreciate that queues and hustle and bustle can be overwhelming so we are opening our doors early to ease your arrival.
Hearing loops
The following areas of Seven Stories are fitted with a hearing loop:
Reception, Bookshop, Storylab, Attic and Cafe
Lift
A lift operates across all floors.
Subtitled Films
The films displayed in our galleries are complete with subtitles.
Assistance dogs
We welcome assistance dogs (guide, hearing and seizure assistance) at Seven Stories. A drinking bowl is available at reception – just ask a member of staff.
Baby changing facilities
Baby Changing can be found on Level 1, 2 and 7. Buggies can be stored on Level 1, subject to space availability. Breast feeding is welcome.
Wheelchair access
All seven floors are accessible for wheelchair users via the lift.
Seating
Seating can be found on all levels and in all galleries.
Quiet Spaces
Quiet spaces are available around the building to allow a little respite – these may vary, please ask staff for details on the day of your visit.
Ear Defenders
Visitors can borrow a pair of ear defenders from reception to ensure a more comfortable experience.
Accessible toilet
A fully accessible Changing Places toilet is located on Level 1 which offers:
Café
Our Café is located on Level 2, serving a range of homemade hot and cold food and drinks. If you or any one in your group have any dietary requirements please speak to a member of the catering team. We always have gluten free bread in stock, dairy free spread and almond milk.
Only food purchased in the Café can be consumed here. Seven Stories is a public building and for the safety and comfort of all our visitors, we politely request that you do not eat or drink outside of the Café or dedicated packed lunch area located in the WordLab on Level 1. Picnics can also be eaten on the green outside or by the Ouseburn River on fine days. If you need any assistance or information, don't hesitate to ask a member of staff.
Shop
We're very proud of our Bookshop located on Level 3, which has been recognised by the Booksellers’ Association as one of the biggest and best independent children's bookshops in the country. Our staff are passionate about children's books and are only too willing to help you with any book-buying decisions you need to make.
Approachable Staff
Trained staff are on hand throughout the day to answer any questions, help with orientation around the building and ensure your day is fun.
