The Reader

The Reader The UK's biggest charity. We read aloud with thousands of adults and children at our home in Calderstones Park and beyond.

The Reader is an award-winning charity working to connect people with great literature through Shared Reading. We bring books to life, delivering Shared Reading groups in libraries, care homes, schools, prisons, on hospital wards and more. Our staff and volunteers create a welcoming environment in which personal feeling is recognised and valued, forming vital connections between people and literat

ure through which everyone can feel more alive. We work to bring about social change by sharing great literature, making it possible for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to engage with reading, improve well-being and build community.

Cheshire Farm Ice Cream have given new life to over 500 of our recycled ice cream tubs by creating this fantastic picnic...
01/06/2026

Cheshire Farm Ice Cream have given new life to over 500 of our recycled ice cream tubs by creating this fantastic picnic bench! You can find it in our Ice Cream Parlour Courtyard! It not only serves as more, practical seating but as a reminder of our shared commitment to reducing waste and considering sustainability. Thank you Cheshire Farm!

Do you think you could tackle the Anfield Abseil for The Reader?Experience Anfield Stadium from a completely different p...
31/05/2026

Do you think you could tackle the Anfield Abseil for The Reader?

Experience Anfield Stadium from a completely different perspective and help raise vital funds to support Shared Reading in the UK and beyond. Shared Reading changes lives by improving wellbeing, reducing social isolation and building stronger communities.

Find out more at https://www.thereader.org.uk/fundraise-for-us/

We're here for all occasions! Our Grade II listed Georgian Mansion House and magnificent 1940s Garden Theatre are truly ...
27/05/2026

We're here for all occasions! Our Grade II listed Georgian Mansion House and magnificent 1940s Garden Theatre are truly unique spaces in the heart of the beautiful Calderstones Park and ready for all of life's events.

🎊Weddings
🤍Funerals
📈Corporates
💻Office space
🥂Celebrations
🎄Christmas parties

Find out more and enquire at https://www.thereader.org.uk/visit-calderstones/hire-a-space/ or contact our events team at [email protected]

Could you help others discover the joy of reading in a supportive community whilst building valuable skills? We’re looki...
26/05/2026

Could you help others discover the joy of reading in a supportive community whilst building valuable skills? We’re looking for warm, empathetic people who enjoy bringing others together, are curious about literature, and can commit to leading a weekly Shared Reading group. With full training, ongoing support, and a welcoming environment, you’ll grow in confidence as you prepare and lead sessions, nurture inclusive discussions, and represent The Reader in your community. You don’t need to be from a certain walk of life or a literature expert. Anyone who wants to help others is welcome to apply.

Next course: Wednesdays, 10 June - 15 July, 9.30am - 1.30pm
Find out more and apply at https://thereader.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173678295

24/05/2026

Where can I find a Shared Reading Group? Each week, The Reader brings people together at Shared Reading groups across the UK. These groups happen in cafes, theatres, libraries, community and health care centres. All groups are free, and for everyone.

Everyone experiences what is read in their own way, but the shared language found in literature can help us to understand ourselves – and others – better.

Reading together means that everyone is involved in a shared experience. There is no pressure to talk or read aloud – it’s fine to just listen. The idea is to create a space where people feel at ease and have the opportunity to connect.

Find a group near you at https://www.thereader.org.uk/shared-reading/find-a-group/

Join us over six weeks for an opportunity to discuss the classic novel Great Expectations by Charles Dickens in curious,...
23/05/2026

Join us over six weeks for an opportunity to discuss the classic novel Great Expectations by Charles Dickens in curious, friendly and open-minded company. We’ll start at the very beginning and stop at key points to reflect on and explore ideas, thoughts and feelings.

There’s no need to have read the book, we’ll explore it together and all reading material will be provided.

Book your ticket at https://thereader.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173678171

Address

Calderstones Mansion House, Calderstones Park
Liverpool
L183JB

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm
Saturday 9am - 4pm
Sunday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

+441517292200

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