Reading For Wellbeing

We are delighted to be part of the Reading for Wellbeing initiative in collaboration with The Woodyard Project in Barnstaple.

As part of this initiative, The Reading Rooms brings women together through books and stories—supporting connection, encouraging conversation, friendship, and a sense of belonging.

Our book groups support women to:

  • build friendships and meaningful social connections
  • feel included, valued, and part of their community
  • support their wellbeing in calm, welcoming settings
  • enjoy positive, shared experiences with others

As a qualified Reading for Wellbeing Practitioner, NHS Hope Facilitator, and experienced specialist educator, Jeanine is passionate about creating safe and welcoming spaces for women at The Reading Rooms. 

"I'm really looking forward to welcoming women of all ages to our book groups, sharing relaxed and friendly get-togethers in safe, welcoming spaces where you can enjoy reading, connect with others, and feel a genuine sense of belonging within the community." Jeanine

Welcome
Welcome to The Reading Rooms Book Group for women in Barnstaple, North Devon.

A welcoming space for women to connect through a shared love of books, stories, and conversation.

Hosted by Space to Be Wellbeing CIC in collaboration with the Reading for Wellbeing initiative, we offer a variety of community book groups that bring women together to chat about books and stories, share thoughts and ideas, and enjoy time together.

Pic: Karen Dunnett, Clare Colby & Jeanine Ash
Join ChatterBooks
'Chat, Connect, & Discover'

Our ChatterBooks groups offer a relaxed, welcoming space to chat about your latest read, favourite authors, genres, and all things bookish.

We explore themes inspired by books and stories, offering a gentle starting point for conversation, and occasionally welcoming guest speakers.

Bring your current read or book journal, and enjoy time with others who love reading as much as you do.

👉 Join us: 

First Wednesday of each month

Nellie’s Coffee Bar

Gammon Walk
Barnstaple

7:00 – 8:30pm

Next meet-up: Wednesday 6th May 
  
I'd like to join ChatterBooks
Join Books & Brew 
'Books, Conversation, & Good Company'

Our Books & Brew groups offer a relaxed, welcoming way to share a love of reading, chat about a chosen book, and spend time with others who enjoy stories.

A gentle structure guides the conversation, creating space for easy discussion and shared reflections.

Settle in with a cuppa, enjoy friendly company, and explore new stories together.

👉 Join us: 

Second Thursday of each month

The Feel Good Larder

Barnstaple
EX32 8LW

1:30 - 3:00 pm

Next meet-up: Thursday 14th May
  
I'd like to join Books & Brew
Helping You Feel Welcome
'Creating welcoming spaces'

Our book groups are relaxed, welcoming spaces for women to enjoy books, share stories, and spend time with others who love reading.

You’re free to take part in whatever way feels right for you—whether that’s listening, sharing, or simply being there.

If you haven’t joined a book group before and would like to know more about what to expect, please contact Jeanine for a friendly chat to help you feel relaxed and comfortable when joining for the first time.
Dates & Venues
ChatterBooks:

First Wednesday of each month

Nellie’s Coffee Bar
Gammon Walk
Barnstaple

7:00 – 8:30pm


May 6th
June 3rd
July 1st
August 5th
September 2nd
October 7th
November 4th
December 2nd
January 6th


Books & Brew:

Second Thursday of each month

The Feel Good Larder

Barnstaple
EX32 8LW

1:30 - 3:00pm

May 14 
June 11 
July 9
August 13
September 10
October 8
November 12
December 10


Can't make it to a group but still want to be part of the Reading Rooms Community?

Join our private Facebook community for relaxed book chat and to begin connecting with others in The Reading Rooms.
Reading For Wellbeing
We are delighted to be part of the Reading for Wellbeing initiative in Barnstaple.

Through this initiative, The Reading Rooms brings women together through books and stories—supporting connection, encouraging conversation, friendship, and a sense of belonging.

Our book groups support women to:

  • build friendships and meaningful social connections
  • feel included, valued, and part of their community
  • support their wellbeing in calm, welcoming settings
  • enjoy positive, shared experiences with others

As a qualified Reading for Wellbeing Practitioner, NHS Hope Facilitator, and experienced specialist educator, Jeanine is passionate about creating safe and welcoming spaces for women at The Reading Rooms. 

"We're really looking forward to welcoming women of all ages to our book groups, sharing time together in welcoming spaces where women can enjoy books, connect with others, and feel a genuine sense of belonging."

We are grateful to The Woodyard Project for supporting our involvement in the Reading for Wellbeing initiative, and look forward to sharing the benefits of this collaboration with our community.
FAQs
Who can join these groups?
Our groups are for women, welcoming adults of all ages.

I feel nervous joining a new group?
We’re here to help you feel at ease from the moment you arrive. Contact Jeanine for a chat and ask about our meet and greet option.

Do I need to book a place?
Yes please. To book, contact Jeanine at: hello@thereadingroomsbookgroup.org.uk

How much does it cost?
A community contribution from £3–£6 to attend, helping to cover costs.

Is the venue accessible?
We choose venues that are as accessible as possible. If you have any specific requirements, please let us know.

Is there parking?
Where possible, we choose venues with parking nearby. Please check for the nearest options.

Is tea and coffee included?

In cafés, drinks can be purchased to support the venue. In community venues, tea and coffee are provided.

Can I bring children?
Our groups are for adults. We hope to offer child-friendly sessions in the future — please get in touch if you’re interested.

If you have any other questions we’d love to hear from you.

'Where women connect through books, stories, and conversation, building friendships and belonging'
The Reading Rooms 
Book Group trading as
Space to Be Wellbeing CIC