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Taking place annually, the Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to keep reading during the summer holidays.

Children’s reading can ‘dip’ during the long summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books and encouragement to read for pleasure. The Summer Reading Challenge helps by regularly reaching over 700,000 children each year, motivating them to visit their local library and keep reading during the holidays, and in turn helping them to maintain their reading skills and confidence.

This year’s theme is Story Garden

This year’s theme is Story Garden, adventures in nature and the great outdoors and launches on Saturday 5 July 2025. This exciting new theme will inspire children to tap into a world of imagination through reading, exploring the magical connection between storytelling and nature.

This year’s Summer Reading Challenge theme, features artwork from award-winning illustrator Dapo Adeola, whose stunning illustrations will bring the Story Garden theme to life; creating an enchanting world where children can find magical creatures, plants and flowers to inspire their next reading adventure. 

Free family fun with �ƹ���Ƶ Libraries and National Trust Croome

This summer, �ƹ���Ƶ’s libraries and National Trust Croome are teaming up to offer families an unforgettable experience of reading, creativity, and outdoor play, with an exciting programme of Summer Reading Challenge events and the National Trust’s Summer of Play.

From 18 to 22 August, the enchanting grounds of Croome will transform into a story-filled wonderland as part of the Summer Reading Challenge. This year’s theme, “Story Garden,” comes alive with library staff bringing nature-inspired Storytimes to spark imagination, set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of �ƹ���Ƶ’s most beautiful heritage sites. Plus, don’t miss your chance to meet the lovable Bookstart Bear!

After reading four books, children will receive a special free entry pass to Croome for themselves and one accompanying adult! Complete all six books to earn a medal and certificate.

All Summer Reading Challenge sessions and events are free to attend. Please note, normal admission charges apply at Croome for visitors who do not qualify for the free entry pass.

Summer of Play is returning to Croome for 2025! This summer, they are celebrating all things bugs and biodiversity, with critter-themed fairground games, hands-on creative workshops, and a mini theatre for performers big and small. Summer of Play activities are free, normal admission to Croome applies. Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.

For more information about the Summer of Play events taking place this summer visit The National Trust's website: