Dates: 3 July – 1 September

Looking for a fun, free family day out this summer? Step into a world of imagination as Once Upon a Trail transforms Droitwich Spa town centre into a magical storybook adventure.

Explore 10 beautifully illustrated shop windows, each bringing to life enchanting scenes inspired by Droitwich Spa’s unique landscapes and local landmarks, with a fairytale twist! From colourful wildflower meadows and sparkling salt crystals to the shimmering canal, every window has been lovingly created by Worcester-based artist Catt Standen.

Write your own story

Children aged 4 and over can collect a FREE Once Upon a Trail activity booklet from Droitwich Library, the Heritage Centre, or The Crafty Cafe.

As you explore the trail, keep an eye out for hidden words in each window. Collect them all to create your very own story.

Claim your prize

Once you've finished the trail, head back to Droitwich Library to collect a FREE book and special treat and celebrate your achievement with a photo in our special selfie frame. Don't forget to share your photos using #DroitwichReads

What's on

There are lots of book-inspired activities taking place in town:

Creative workshops at The Crafty Café

To celebrate the trail and the National Year of Reading, The Crafty Café is hosting a range of low-cost and free creative workshops for young children and teens throughout August:

Thursday 6th August, 12:30pm
Local author lan Johnson reads his new book, Puff the Puffing Puffin, followed by a free colouring session.

Thursday 11th August, 10am
Local author lan Johnson reads A Messy Day, followed by a free colouring session.

Wednesday 12th, 2pm - 4pm
Free Story Lantern Workshop (ages 4-16) - there are only 15 spaces available so book your place asap 

Thursday 13th August, 10am -11am
Create Your Own Comic (ages 5+) - £7

Monday 24th August, 1:30pm
Paint Your Own Book-Shaped Ceramic Vase (ages 5+) - £12

Make your own bookmark, model book bench or greeting card with our fun summer craft sessions.

No booking necessary, just pop in between 10am - 3:30pm, Monday to Friday or Saturdays between 10pm -1pm.

For the little ones (Droitwich Library)

Droitwich Library host a range of free activities including:

Story Train

Suitable for children aged 2-5 years. Mondays, 11am.

Bounce and Rhythm

Music, instruments, and bubbles.

Suitable for children aged 0-2. Tuesdays, 11am. Booking is essential.

Stay and Play

Toys are out in the Children’s Area. Suitable for pre-schoolers.

Wednesdays, 1:30pm - 3:30pm. No booking required.

Mr Corbett’s Coffee Shop

Come and chat with our lovely community.

Fridays, 10:30am - 11:40am. Only 70p for a hot drink and biscuit.

Board Games & Lego Club

Saturdays, 10:30am - 1pm.

To book the library sessions, please call 01905 822722

To book activities at The Crafty Café, visit the-original-craft-co-studio-ltd.sumupstore.com

Created with our Community

Once Upon a Trail has been created by Wychavon, Droitwich Spa Library, and St Joseph's First School to celebrate the National Year of Reading while bringing creativity and family fun to Droitwich Spa throughout the summer holidays. It hopes to spark children’s imaginations and inspire a love of reading.

One of the art displays has been created by members of Droitwich Youth Council, who worked alongside The Crafty Cafe. Their creativity and ideas have helped make the trail even more magical for local families. 

Important info

• The trail starts 3^rd July and ends on 1^st September 2026.
• The trail is recommended for 4–9-year-olds.
• The library will be closed on Thursdays and Sundays, so you won’t be able to collect your book prize during these times.