Gruffalo Granny was published on 10 September 2026, bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler back to the deep dark wood for the first new Gruffalo picture book in more than 20 years. Alongside the new book, families visiting central London can also find a special Gruffalo Granny pop-up at Waterstones Piccadilly.
Gruffalo Granny Pop-Up at Waterstones Piccadilly
Gruffalo Granny has now arrived, and families can step a little further into the Deep Dark Wood with a special pop-up at Waterstones Piccadilly, 203–206 Piccadilly, London W1J 9HD.
The dedicated space is on the lower-ground floor and is due to run through Christmas 2026. It includes a selection of Axel Scheffler’s original Gruffalo illustrations, making it a lovely extra stop for young Gruffalo fans rather than a full standalone attraction.
Waterstones lists its Piccadilly shop as having step-free access, and its event information describes the venue as fully accessible. Accessibility needs can vary, so it is still worth checking directly with the shop before travelling if you need specific arrangements.
Gruffalo Treats at Embertons Café
The launch pop-up also reaches Embertons Café inside the store, with Gruffalo-themed treats currently including Gruffalo Crumble, Purple Prickle Potion and Deep Dark Wood Hot Chocolate. Seasonal menus can change, so check availability when you visit.
Latest Book Update
Macmillan Children’s Books published Gruffalo Granny in the UK on 10 September 2026. The hardback is 40 pages long and Macmillan recommends the book for children aged 3–7. An audio edition is also available.
What Is Gruffalo Granny About?
The story returns to the Gruffalo family when Gruffalo Granny comes to stay. The Gruffalo and his child are preparing a meal for her arrival, but finding their main ingredient — a very familiar little brown mouse — is not quite so simple. It is the first new Gruffalo story since The Gruffalo’s Child.
Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler
Gruffalo Granny reunites author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler, the creative partnership behind The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo’s Child, Room on the Broom, Stick Man, Zog and many more family favourites.
For more books, theatre adaptations and family adventures connected to her work, head to our Julia Donaldson Author Spotlight.
Why This Book Is a Big Deal
The Gruffalo first appeared in 1999, followed by The Gruffalo’s Child in 2004. More than two decades later, Gruffalo Granny gives children who already know those stories a completely new adventure — and gives parents who grew up with the originals something new to share with their own families.
Accessible Editions
The 10 September launch included accessible versions alongside the standard editions. Braille, British Sign Language and a bespoke audio-tactile edition developed with Living Paintings were published at the same time, helping more children share the new Gruffalo story.
Reading, Libraries & Activities
The launch is also tied into a wider reading campaign. Macmillan Children’s Books is working with literacy and disability charities to widen access to Gruffalo books, while official Gruffalo activity resources give families and schools another way to build reading and creative activities around the new story.
Make a Day of It
Waterstones Piccadilly is an easy addition to a central London family day rather than something you need to build a whole trip around. From Piccadilly you are well placed for Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square and the wider West End. Our Westminster Days Out, Events & West End Guide can help you find another nearby stop, or you could keep the day firmly Gruffalo-themed with our current family guides below.
Buy Gruffalo Granny & Available Editions
- UK publication date: 10 September 2026
- Author: Julia Donaldson
- Illustrator: Axel Scheffler
- Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books
- Hardback: 40 pages
- Recommended age: 3–7
- ISBN: 9781035065516
- Audio: digital audio edition available
Gruffalo Granny is available now. I’ll add useful buying options here when suitable Clarissa’s Corner affiliate links have been checked rather than sending you to an unverified offer.
More Gruffalo on Clarissa’s Corner
- The Gruffalo’s Child – our Churchill Theatre review
- The Gruffalo Live 2026 – West End & UK dates
- The Gruffalo at Tanfield Railway 2026
- The Gruffalo Art Adventure at Knole 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Gruffalo Granny published?
Gruffalo Granny was published in the UK on 10 September 2026.
Where is the Gruffalo Granny Waterstones pop-up?
The pop-up is on the lower-ground floor of Waterstones Piccadilly, 203–206 Piccadilly, London W1J 9HD, and is due to run through Christmas 2026.
Who wrote and illustrated Gruffalo Granny?
The book is written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.
What age is Gruffalo Granny for?
Macmillan lists the book for ages 3–7, although families already familiar with the Gruffalo stories may enjoy reading it together across a wider age range.
Are there accessible editions of Gruffalo Granny?
Yes. Braille, British Sign Language and a bespoke audio-tactile edition developed with Living Paintings were published alongside the main release.
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