Our adventures combine interactive storytelling, imaginative games, illustrated maps and inventive workshops to get children fizzing with creative curiosity.
Our work focuses on growing connections to the natural world and on harnessing the power of play to build up the capacities young people need for a life of joyous prosperity.
Find out about our social mission statement here.
We are based in London but we are ready to set sail for anywhere in the UK. We work in museums, festivals, parties, placemaking events, schools and just about anywhere families are to be found.
If you would like the Patchlarks to arrive with their heads full of stories and their suitcases full of adventure then please jump over to the contact page and let Oliver know.
We also work with a host of brilliant performers, artists, and creators to make our adventures, we couldnt do it without them!
“Working with Patchlarks has been a dream, Oliver was professional to the letter, and I felt confident in having booked him from the offset. On the day of the event word of his stories made it to me quickly – visitors and staff commented that they were beautiful and engaging. On joining myself I totally agreed, the children were shepherded into a magical world of raspberry mattresses and whimsical woodlice. “ Tanya Dean, Learning and Engagement Officer – Destination City
“I would thoroughly recommend Patchlarks, engaging, thought-provoking and entertaining. Children and teachers alike were entranced by Oliver’s unique brand of storytelling, inspiring us to enter imaginary worlds full of sounds, smells and excitement. We all came away with unique images and knowledge of wonderful tales that will last a lifetime.” Deborah Peck, Libraries Development Officer
“I keep meaning to message you to thank you for the amazing storytelling. My two (rainbow wellies and elephant top) enjoyed it so much and loved making watermelon island. For me it was amazing to see them light up and engage so wonderfully in your story. So thank you and your wonderful storytelling.” Siobhan
“You came 5 years ago to do a storytelling birthday for our son. For us it was a very memorable event that was much talked about. At the time, I had just given birth to twin girls, who just turned 5. Are you able to come and be our storyteller again?” Tali
Created by…
Patchlarks is run by Oliver Wallace who has made wondrous work for, and with, children and adults for more than 10 years.
The joyous narrative based adventures he creates have been experienced by tens of thousands of children in schools, museums, festivals, historic properties, giant snails, public parks, private parties, community centres and forest hideaways across the country.
Patchlarks is driven by his deep love of storytelling, playfulness and the natural world.
Photos on this page by Emma Nathan, Ben Zeng and Rah Petherbridge.