Detail of an ink and watercolour painting showing birds and a dragon.

Summer storytelling

Firedrakes, folktales and falling stars

Family activity / Various dates

6+

Event information

Various dates

Wednesday 5, 12 and 26 August
Activities will run on specific days
See scheduled dates

Room 1

Enlightenment

Free

Ages 6+

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Join storyteller extraordinaire Olivia Armstrong for this free summertime series of tales inspired by strange creatures, fantastic fables and the night sky.

Suitable for families with children from six upwards, there will be a different enchanting story on each day, with 30-minute performances at 11.00, 12.00 and 13.30.

View the list of activities below or explore the full programme overview for more information:

To attend this event

  • This event will run on Wednesday 5, 12 and 26 August with different stories on specific days. These storytelling sessions are non-ticketed but places will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • You're advised to book a free timed ticket for Museum entry to receive key information and updates before your visit and priority entry during busy periods. The Main entrance is on Great Russell Street. Your timed ticket allows you to explore the permanent collection. See the Visit page for more information.

About the storyteller

Olivia Armstrong is a storyteller from Ireland who shares her stories in fantastic places from palaces to parks, castles to cathedrals and everywhere in between. She tells magical stories of the wonderful world around us; stories filled with hope, love and mischief!

Programme overview

Wednesday 5 August
Dreadful dragons and ghastly griffins

11.00–11.30, 12.00–12.30 and 13.30–14.00

Summer was once the season of the fierce, flying firedrakes. Enjoy startling stories of fiery dragons and majestic griffins – discover their links to London and their connection to a famous Tapestry arriving soon at the British Museum.


Wednesday 12 August 
Fabulous fables and folktales

11.00–11.30, 12.00–12.30 and 13.30–14.00

Enjoy listening to, and joining in with, some fantastic fables about amazing animals that can be found across the British Museum. See how many you can spot during your visit.


Wednesday 26 August 
Cosmic comets and shimmering stars

11.00–11.30, 12.00–12.30 and 13.30–14.00

The night sky has always been filled with mystery and magic for stargazers. Discover the myth of the Milky Way and why fiery comets can feel fearsome! Join in or drift away and dream during this enchanting storytelling session.