What's Going On?

Are you looking for a great free day out this summer? One that gets the kids outside, fuels their imaginations, and brings a little storytelling magic to life?

This summer, Lola Brown’s Books is hosting a series of children’s book treasure hunts across North Devon — and Pig & Olive is proud to sponsor the upcoming events in Bideford on 30 July and Westward Ho! on 14 August.

These aren’t just fun and free family events. They’re mini adventures, designed to feel like something out of a storybook. And the best part? Every child gets to take the treasure home.

A Book Hunt That Sparks Joy

The idea behind the event is simple, but brilliant. Books are purchased through community sponsorships, packaged in waterproof wrapping, and hidden around local parks, towns and open spaces. Each package includes a note explaining the project and showing which local businesses helped bring it to life.

Children are encouraged to explore, follow clues, and go on their own story-fuelled adventure, discovering real books, for free, to keep.

A Passion Project With Purpose

Sophia started the project after becoming a mum herself. “I have my own daughter who has just turned 10 months and I think it’s such a key factor in a child’s development to be surrounded by reading material. More now than ever in an age where technology is so widely available and accessed at such a young age!”

Inspired by her daughter and by the belief that every child should have access to books at home, Lola began organising the hunts, with each book funded by kind-hearted sponsors. For just £5, roughly five books can be purchased, making it easy for local businesses to support something meaningful.

Families Reading Together in the Sun

The most recent book hunt took place in Barnstaple and received an outpouring of support online and in the community. Families took to the parks, sharing photos of their little ones discovering and reading the books they found.

“I saw a lot of pictures of a lot of happy little faces,” says Lola. “Seeing the beautiful families reading together in the park in the sun was so so lovely!” She’s even had people stop her in the street while hiding books — just to say thank you.

These North Devon summer holiday events aren’t just about entertainment. They offer connection, learning and joy — especially for families who may not have regular access to books at home.

Join the Book Hunt: Upcoming Dates

Pig & Olive is delighted to be sponsoring two of this summer’s events, with 50 books funded across Bideford and Westward Ho! to be found alongside all the other generous donations from local businesses.

To take part, follow @lbs_books on Instagram or LB’s Children’s Events on Facebook. On the day, clues will be shared online and across the local area. If your child finds a book, you’re encouraged to tag the organisers and share the joy.

From Books to Pizza: Make a Day of It

If you're joining the Westward Ho! book hunt, make it a full day out. Our restaurant is open from 12pm daily and our daytime menu is perfect for relaxed family lunches. Try our pizzettas, pizza dogs, fresh salads and more — and enjoy some reading time together while your food is stone-baked to order.

Because great stories deserve to be shared. And so do great pizzas.