The Jolly Postman Trail

Follow The Jolly Postman Trail during Books Alive!

There are nine large-scale story installations to discover from 24 - 31 October, 10am - 4pm daily.
Inspired by the beloved children's book 'The Jolly Postman or Other People's Letters' by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, The Jolly Postman Trail transforms Southport town centre into a living storybook, inviting families to follow his journey as he delivers letters to favourite fairytale characters.

Make CIC have been commissioned to work with artists from across the Liverpool City Region to create the nine installations and bring memorable characters and moments from the story to life.

The installations can be visited in any order, so you can create your own storybook adventure through the town centre - you can view the map here. 

Discover where each tale begins by exploring the locations below.

Image shows Jolly Postman riding a bike from the The Jolly Postman book

Postman Greeting

This immersive visual art installation brings the trail’s story to life through vibrant, floor-to-wall vinyl graphics of the beginning of the Postman’s work day travels on his trusty bicycle. Visitors are immediately drawn into a colourful, larger-than-life world where they can step directly into…

Image shows characters waving to The Jolly Postman with house and postbox in background

Postbox

This interactive installation brings the storybook world to life through a vibrant, illustrated postcard scene featuring the book's beloved characters and iconic elements. Designed as a prime selfie spot and hands-on experience, visitors are invited to step directly into the illustration to pose for…

Image shows the Wicked Witch and Jolly Postman characters sitting at a table reading a letter from the book The Jolly Postman

The Wicked Witch

This installation transforms the shop window into the magic curiosity shop of Hobgoblins Ltd., filled with enchanted objects, spell ingredients, and subtle 'magic' elements. Visitors can explore the detailed storefront, spot hidden surprises, and pose for photos in front of the theatrical display…

Image shows the Jolly Postman at the door of the giant holding a letter, and the Giant's boot in the doorway - from the book The Jolly Postman

The Giant

This installation brings the Giant’s world to life with oversized sculptures, featuring a dramatic beanstalk climbing the stairwell and balcony. At ground level, visitors are invited to step inside the Giant's home to sit on giant biscuit and letter block seating, explore the 3-meter-wide Giant’s…

Image shows The Giant’s Postcard from the book The Jolly Postman, reads 'thinking of you on your magic carpet tour' with various characters from the book

The Giant’s Postcard

This installation features a large-scale mural created as a direct replica of the postcard from the book. Serving as a striking visual backdrop and dedicated selfie spot, visitors can step up to the artwork, pose alongside the oversized scene, and feel like they’ve stepped right onto the page. It…

Image shows Cinderella's castle with The Jolly Postman on his bike cycling up towards the gate

Cinderella

This installation transforms the window display into a layered, theatrical scene that brings the Cinderella story to life using laser-cut cardboard, spotlighting, and moving elements. Visitors can admire the glowing, multidimensional diorama, spot intricate story details, and capture photos against…

Image shows Grandma's Cottage scene from The Jolly Postman book with wolf dressed as Grandma reading a letter and The Jolly Postman sitting at table in background

Grandma’s Cottage

This installation brings the mischievous world of the Wolf to life through a playful, theatrical shopfront scene. Peek into Grandma’s world, where her handcrafted rocking chair features a bespoke blanket created with local crocheters. Visitors are invited to look closer and discover familiar…

Image shows table full of The Jolly Postman characters eating a meal with Goldilocks

Goldilocks

This installation transforms the Goldilocks scene into a playful interactive experience where visitors can place their heads through character cutouts to feel like part of Goldilocks' children’s tea party. Designed as a selfie spot and engaging photo opportunity, guests can pose as iconic…

Image shows The Jolly Postman on bike waving goodbye

Postman’s Home Time

This installation brings the trail to a reflective close, guiding visitors through the gardens along a path of reclaimed window frames inspired by The Jolly Postman. Each window reveals a miniature storybook scene, allowing guests to peek inside familiar character homes as the Postman journeys back…

Download The Jolly Postman Trail Map

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