Become an Apprentice Dragon Keeper

There's a dragon on the loose in Gloucestershire this October half term, and local families have been recruited to help find it.

The Gloucestershire Libraries county-wide Apprentice Dragon Keeper adventure has more than 60 activities lined-up including storytelling, crafts, performances and workshops.

Become an Apprentice Dragon Keeper

• Date: Saturday 24th October to Sunday 1st November 2026

• Time: Varies by activity. The dragon trails can be completed at your own pace throughout half term.

• Location: Participating libraries and community venues across Gloucestershire

• Booking: Some activities require advance booking. Book those here

• Programme: See the full festival programme and activity list

A young dragon has disappeared, and families are being asked to help solve the mystery.

Start by collecting a Dragon Keeper Logbook from a participating library or selected community partner. Then follow the trail around your local area, gathering clues, solving puzzles and completing challenges as the story unfolds.

There are trails in Hesters Way and Oakley, as well as Dursley, Matson and Cinderford. You can work through the adventure at your own pace, rather than having to squeeze everything into one organised session.

And there's plenty happening beyond the dragon hunt. The festival programme includes creative workshops, storytelling, performances and other family activities at libraries and community venues across the county.

A couple of useful things to know before heading out:

• Check the programme for individual session times, locations and booking requirements.

• The festival includes activities at different venues, so don't assume everything is happening at your nearest library.

• The organisers have included digital, audio and visual elements to help families engage with the dragon trail in different ways.

With a whole week to explore, this is one to keep handy when you're planning your half-term days out.