The Reader announces biggest ever Christmas season at Calderstones Park

The Reader has unveiled its biggest ever programme of festive events at Calderstones Park this Christmas, with something for all ages to enjoy.

Back for 2025 is the much-loved Christmas Story Trail, this year inspired by Jarvis’ picture book Mr Santa. Families can follow the trail every weekend from 29 November to 31 December, while under 4s can enjoy a special Mini Christmas Trail on Fridays. Each trail includes a map, activities, and a copy of the book to take home.

Other family highlights include Brunch with Mrs Claus, Christmas-themed sessions at The Storybarn, cosy Bookshop Bedtime Stories, and two festive theatre shows – Altru Drama’s Robin Hood and Goofus Theatre’s All in a Mouse’s Night.

Adults can look forward to a brand-new Bronte Christmas Afternoon, festive literary deep dives, a Winter Poetry Masterclass, and live music with both the Simashgu String Quartet and Q Quartets performing in the Mansion House. Wreath-making workshops, a Winter Wellbeing session, and Makers at the Mansion (29–30 November) are also part of the packed line-up.

The season kicks off on Sunday 23 November with The Reader’s first ever fundraising Christmas Quiz, featuring food, drinks and a festive challenge in the beautiful Mansion House.

To top it off, visitors can shop for gifts at the Reader Bookshop’s Festive Shopping Evening on Thursday 11 December, complete with live music, mulled wine, mince pies and discounts of up to 20%.

All profits from the programme go towards The Reader’s work bringing Shared Reading to communities across Liverpool and beyond.

Find the full Christmas season and book tickets here.

Bookings open for Bar Hütte on Chavasse Park for Christmas 2025 – get yours now.

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From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.