Queen's Park Canalside Community Storytelling Space!

The festival and activity location is Under the Westway flyover and in the grassy area in front of the Westbourne Park Bus Garage. See map below for specific location and access instructions.

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Join us for an intimate afternoon of community storytelling by the Grand Union Canal, where local residents share personal narratives about life by the water. "Stories by the Water" is an interactive workshop that celebrates the voices, memories, and experiences that make North Paddington unique.

What to Expect:

• Listen and learn from resident storytellers sharing 5-7 minute personal narratives about life in Queen’s Park & beyond
• Interactive workshop elements where you'll be supported to discover and share your own stories
• Multiple ways to participate - through small group discussions, creative exercises, or brief story sharing
• Storytelling support from experienced facilitators to help you craft and share your narrative
• Intergenerational exchange hearing perspectives on how the area has changed, community traditions, and hopes for the future
• Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with refreshments and time to connect with neighbours
• Free workshop suitable for all ages, with step-free access and flexible seating

Storytelling event include:

• Personal memories of the canal and neighbourhood history
• Guided activities to help you identify your own connection to the area
• Experiences of migration, settlement, and belonging
• Creative storytelling techniques and confidence-building exercises
• Small group story development and sharing opportunities
• Visions for the canalside's future from all community voices

Who Should Attend/Target Audience:

This workshop is designed for local residents of all ages who want to both hear and share stories about their community. Perfect for families, long-term residents with memories to preserve, newcomers curious about their neighbourhood’s heritage, and anyone interested in connecting with neighbours through storytelling. We especially welcome residents from the Mozart estate, Queen's Park, and surrounding North Paddington areas.

No prior experience with storytelling needed - our facilitators will support you whether you want to listen, participate in activities, or share your own story with the group.

• Long-term residents / seniors
• People with personal or family histories of migration
• Residents of Queen’s Park
• BAME residents
• Young people
• Canal / boat dwellers

Host or Publisher Westminster City Council