Quick link to National Festival listing here
South West Festivals
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BATH LITERATURE FESTIVAL (February) The Bath Literature Festival programmes over 100 different literary events from debates and lectures to readers' groups, workshops and films in venues throughout the city. In addition there are a number of events for children and young people. www.bathlitfest.org.uk |
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DAPHNE DU MAURIER FESTIVAL OF ARTS AND LITERATURE Fowey, Cornwall (May) A festival to celebrate the life and works of Daphne du Maurier featuring writers, entertainers and celebrities of national and international renown in Fowey Cornwall. |
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SALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL (May) the Festival invites artists from around the world to perform over seventeen days & nights in Salisbury and the surrounding area. It contains a light literary component. www.salisburyfestival.co.uk |
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ST. IVES LITERATURE FESTIVAL (May) A host of events each day during the eight days of the festival - readings, talks, walks, workshops and performance. Each day will start with open readings. |
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POETRY&WORDS AT GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL (June) Spoken word and performance poetry from National and International poets as part of the UK's biggest performance arts and music festival. www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk |
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DARTINGTON HALL FESTIVAL - WAYS WITH WORDS (July) The Ways with Words Festival - set in the medieval courtyard at Dartington Hall, Devon, this large literature festival has around 200 speakers. www.wayswithwords.co.uk |
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PORT ELIOT LIT FEST (July) Featuring an eclectic mix of writers, poets, filmmakers and musicians. this is one of GBs most original, magical, bohemian, bookish, colourful, musical and comic festivals. |
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APPLEDORE BOOK FESTIVAL (Sept) The Appledore Book Festival takes place over nine days in the fishing village of Appledore North Devon. The festival remit to spread a love of reading and learning with innovative events and raise money for the Appledore Library and reading projects for disadvantaged children. www.appledorebookfestival.co.uk |
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THE BATH FESTIVAL OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE (Sept) The Bath Festival of Children’s Literature is a 10-day celebration of children’s books and reading, and will feature some of the biggest and most creative names from the world of children’s publishing. www.bathkidslitfest.co.uk |
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BRISTOL POETRY FESTIVAL (Sept) Poetic readings and performances selected to showcase and celebrate the diversity of poetry in all it's forms. Discover the power of poetry to transform. |
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BUDLEIGH SALTERTON FESTIVAL (Sept) Budleigh Lit Fest is set beside the sea with Hilary Mantel as its president and five days of top level authors both fiction and non-fiction, workshops and events for children and free events for schools. |
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BOURNEMOUTH FESTIVAL Of WORDS (Oct) Bournemouth Festival of Words celebrates the written and spoken word in South East Dorset. Theirr small team has a big vision: to invite everyone who loves words to take part in an annual non-commercial literary festival. www.bournemouthfestivalofwords.co.uk |
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THE TIMES CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE (Oct) The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival is a celebration of award-winning writers, world-renowned thinkers and international star names – with more than 450 events over the ten day Festival. At its heart the Festival rejoices in the joy of books, the thrill of debate and the unique interaction between writer and reader. |
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EXETER POETRY FESTIVAL (Oct) A four day celebration of poetry in Exeter, Devon featuring poetry writing workshops, poetry readings, spoken word, a poetry bookshop and much more. www.exeterpoetryfestival.com |
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MERE LITERARY FESTIVAL (Oct) A small literary festival that includes events, talks, workshops and a short story competition. |
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POOLE LITERARY FESTIVAL (Oct) A chance to meet leading authors, attend discussions, storytelling events, literary walks, workshops, poetry and much more in the historic Dorset seaside town. Events for adults, children and families. |
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TORBAY POETRY FESTIVAL (Oct) A long weekend devoted to poetry through readings, workshops, and various imaginative events. Usually 20 - 25 events, many free, combining local and national poets. |
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WELLS FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE (Oct) With lectures, readings, children's events, poetry workshops and international poetry and short story competitions. www.wlitf.co.uk |
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WONDERFULWORDS - CORNWALL LIBRARY BOOK FESTIVAL (Oct) The countywide festival comprises of children's literary events during September, a week long Poetry Festival in early October along with a month of adult literary events throughout October. www.cornwall.gov.uk |
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National Festivals (Chronologically) |
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| BATH LITERATURE FESTIVAL Over 100 different literary events from debates and lectures to readers' groups, workshops and films in venues throughout the city. Including a number of events for children and young people. www.bathlitfest.org.uk |
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CAOMHNU LITERARY FESTIVAL N Ireland. Caomhnú Literary Festival brings together the very best literary talent in the country for an interesting mixture of readings, workshops, performances and surprises |
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JEWISH BOOK WEEK Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way, London WC1 Jewish Book Week has contributors from around the globe. With over 50 sessions in London and 30 nationwide on contemporary issues which radically affect our sense of ourselves as individuals and members of diverse communities. |
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LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS (LSE) LITERARY WEEKEND The LSE 'Space for Thought Literary Weekend' forms part of the celebrations surrounding the completion of a New Academic Building at LSE showcasing a series of events exploring the interaction between the arts and social sciences. |
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| NORTH HERTS BOOK FESTIVAL
A rolling series of book events, readings, theatre, storytelling, a bit of local history, second-hand book bonanza, and performances. |
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WORD MARKET WRITERS' AND READERS' FESTIVAL Designed for all levels of ability from the complete beginner to the seasoned professional, local writing and reading groups host a programme of readings, workshops, training, performances and special events. The Festival is a celebration of the work undertaken by Word Market and its member groups throughout the year, to inspire as many people as possible to put pen to paper, pick up a book, or sit back and listen to some of the best new writing around. www.wordmarket.org.uk |
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March
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| AYE WRITE! GLASGOW'S BOOK FESTIVAL Mitchell Library and Theatre
Aye Write! celebrates the rich variety of Glaswegian writing and also brings the best of Scottish and international writers to the city. The programme includes a mix of fiction and non-fiction, poetry and prose, screenwriting and graphic novels along with sessions on illustration and storytelling. |
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BRIGHTON CHILDREN'S BOOK FESTIVAL Aimed at young people and adults, the Brighton Children's Book Festival celebrates the way children's books leap from the page into film, theatre, radio, TV, digital media and much more. www.writewords.org.uk/news/1028.asp |
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ESSEX BOOK FESTIVAL A month long festival bringing readers and writers together throughout the county, with many events in libraries. The festival showcases new writers as well as bringing a range of established writers to Essex. www.essexbookfestival.org.uk |
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| FORGE AT GORT LITERATURE FESTIVAL
The Forge at Gort Literature Festival is organised by the Western Writers’ Centre. Author readings and workshops take place in venues throughout the town of Gort over a two day period in March. The festival is themed around Yeats' symbolic use of the old Gort forge in his poetry: the forge is still there in the main street of the town. |
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HUDDERSFIELD LITERATURE FESTIVAL Since its inception in 2006, the aim of the Huddersfield Literature Festival has been to provide innovative and distinct events to support and showcase new, emerging and established writers/artists, offering a platform to promote new work as well as the opportunity to attend intensive writing workshops and masterclasses. www.litfest.org.uk |
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KING'S LYNN FICTION FESTIVAL A fiction festival featuring readings and talks. www.lynnlitfests.com |
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KING'S SUTTON LITERARY FESTIVAL A literary festival featuring readings and talks. http://kslitfest.co.uk |
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THE LONDON WORD FESTIVAL London Word Festival explores words in all forms, from the spoken and sung to the scribbled and scrawled. From Blogs to comic books; from poetic lyricism to lyric poetry; from pop culture to the plain cult. The Festival will generate new work, with specially commissioned performance pieces, and artist-led collaborations. |
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OUNDLE FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE Featuring a programme of author events, poetry, philosophy, politics, story telling, biography, illustrators and novelists for young and old. |
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SAFFRON WALDEN LITERARY FESTIVAL A literary festival organised by Harts Events bringing to life the best (and worst) of Britain. www.hartsevents.co.uk |
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STANZA: SCOTLAND'S POETRY FESTIVAL St Andrews An opportunity to engage with a wide variety of poetry, to hear world class poets reading in exciting and atmospheric venues, to experience a range of performances where music, film, dance and poetry work in harmony, to view exhibitions linking poetry with visual art and to discover the part poetry has played in the lives of a diverse range of writers, musicians and media personalities. |
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| THE SUNDAY TIMES OXFORD LITERARY FESTIVAL
The Festival reflects the great literary traditions of The University of Oxford, and its historic Colleges, as well as the contemporary reputation of its Departments and Institutes in every field of scholarship, research and enquiry.Novelists, biographers, historians, poets, critics, politicians, soldiers, public servants, scientists, and medics will be joined by artists, philosophers, theologians, architects, engineers, botanists, environmentalists and children's writers. www.sundaytimes-oxfordliteraryfestival.co.uk |
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WINDSOR FESTIVAL A mix of classical music, walks and literary events. www.windsorfestival.com/index.shtml |
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WORDS BY THE WATER Cumbria Literature festival organised by Ways With Words. For ten days writers and readers get together to share the pleasure of books, words and ideas. |
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YORK LITERATURE FESTIVAL Celebrating the written and spoken word in one of the UK's most beautiful cities. Over 50 events throughout York, including theatre, storytelling, workshops, author signings and much more. |
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April
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| CAMBRIDGE WORD FEST
An annual literature festival held in the spring in Cambridge and surrounding area aiming to provide a richly packed weekend of some of the best in contemporary fiction, political debate, workshops and events for children. It is a festival for writers as well as readers. |
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CUIRT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE Features an eclectic and exciting range of Irish and international writers. |
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EYPE AUTUMN 2010 ‘BOOK ‘N AUTHOR’ WEEKS LITERARY FESTIVAL The first of two annual Spring and Autumn intimate and informal Literary Festivals with a cornucopia of top national and local writers presenting their current titles with active audience participation, book sales and signing sessions.
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HEXHAM BOOK FESTIVAL A weekend celebration of all that's exciting and new in books. A mix of fiction and non-fiction. www.hexhambookfestival.co.uk |
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| KINGSTON READERS' FESTIVAL
A range of events including philosophy, poetry, health and well-being, crime, history and politics, science, food, wine and gardening. Family Learning days, and a schools, museum and library programme. www.kingston.ac.uk |
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| THE LAUGHARNE WEEKEND
A weekend music and literary gathering in the small West Wales town of Laugharne, one that has proved popular with both performers and crowds. |
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| LEIGH & WIGAN WORDS TOGETHER LITERARY FESTIVAL
An annual literary festival consisting of a fortnight of literary and associated events, a rich mix of fiction and non-fiction, poetry and prose with workshops, poetry slams, music and storytelling there is something for every age and taste. |
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SCARBOROUGH LITERATURE FESTIVAL A chance to meet your favourite authors at Scarborough Literature Festival. There is something for everyone! www.scarboroughliteraturefestival.co.uk |
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STRATFORD-UPON-AVON-POETRY-FESTIVAL Sponsored by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. It comprises a mixture of established contemporary poets reading their own work, and well-known actors, mainly from the Royal Shakespeare Company, reading verse on different themes or concentrating on past poets. |
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| STROKESTOWN INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL
Aiming to provide a forum for excellence in poetry, of different types and in both English and Irish, and to create new audiences for poetry. |
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TEXT FESTIVAL (BIENNIAL) Bury An international festival of contemporary poetry and text art that will consist of exhibitions, public art commissions, performances and workshops. The festival continues for 12 weeks. www.textfestival.com |
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TY NEWYDD FESTIVAL (BIENNIAL)
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UEA INTERNATIONAL LITERATURE FESTIVAL University of East Anglia
www.uea.ac.uk/litfest |
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WORDS LIVE: HARROW LITERATURE FESTIVAL A festival that includes performance, talks, workshops, book readings, exhibitions, music, poetry and storytelling. www.harrowarts.com |
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| WORDSWORTH TRUST - POETRY SEASON
Various readings held at St Martin's Students Union Bar, Ambleside. |
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May
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THE ASIA HOUSE FESTIVAL OF ASIAN LITERATURE Marlybone, London
and best of writing across Asia from the Persian Gulf to the Pacific in a series of talks, debates and discussions. www.festivalofasianliterature.com |
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BRIGHTON FESTIVAL Brighton Festival is a contemporary celebration of British and international performing arts, bringing and commissioning events to and for Brighton, many that cannot be seen elsewhere in the UK and reflecting the thriving creativity of its own artistic community. |
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| BRISTOL SPRING POETRY FESTIVAL
Poetic readings and performances selected to showcase and celebrate the diversity of poetry in all it's forms. Discover the power of poetry to transform. |
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BURY ST. EDMUNDS FESTIVAL A general arts festival with over two week's of arts including music, theater, comedy and poetry. www.buryfestival.co.uk |
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CAMBRIDGE STORYTELLING FESTIVAL Showcasing the best in the oral tradition, including Young Storyteller of the Year award, and many workshops, open tellings and networking events. |
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| CHALFONT ST GILES AND JORDANS LITERARY FESTIVAL (BIENNIAL)
A themed festival which includes guest authors talking about their own books, creative writing workshops, story telling and recitations designed to appeal to all ages. |
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CHARLESTON LITERARY FESTIVAL This annual festival never fails to bring international writers and thinkers to the Sussex countryside. www.charleston.org.uk |
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COUNTRYBOOKSHOP PEAK FESTIVAL Peak District National Park Includes talks by authors and literary figures. |
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| DAPHNE DU MAURIER FESTIVAL OF ARTS AND LITERATURE Fowey, Cornwall
A festival to celebrate the life and works of Daphne du Maurier featuring writers, entertainers and celebrities of national and international renown. |
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DORCHESTER FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND ARTS (BIENNIAL) An arts fesival that includes a literature programme. www.dorchesterarts.org.uk |
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DULWICH FESTIVAL A community arts festival that features literary talks and readings, poetry, historical/architectural/wildlife walks, theatre, music, art and family entertainment. |
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DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY ARTS FESTIVAL A regional general arts festival involving music, visual arts, drama, film, dance, children's events and literature. |
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THE GUARDIAN HAY FESTIVAL One of the largest literary festivals in the UK. Past programme events and performances crossed literature with cabaret, cinema, circus, comedy, environment, film, music, politics, science, screenwriting and visual arts. Children's Festival Hay Fever runs alongside the Guardian Hay Festival every year. |
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KEMPSFORD LITERARY FESTIVAL www.kempsfordliteraryfestival.co.uk |
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LINCOLN BOOK FESTIVAL The Lincoln Book Festival aims to celebrate books but also includes some other art forms that books initiate and inspire - comedy, film, performance and conversation. The festival aims to celebrate local, national and international writers and artists, historical and contemporary works of art as well as offering the public a chance to see both emerging and well-known writers and artists. |
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| LISTOWEL WRITER'S WEEK Co Kerry, Ireland
The festival attracts acclaimed authors, poets, journalists, artists, singers and storytellers. There are also treats in store for children with award-winning writers, children’s workshops, fun with music and stories. Readings, interviews, workshops, drama, music, poetry slams and exhibitions. www.writersweek.ie |
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PERTH FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Mainly a music festival with a small literary content. |
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POETRY-NEXT-THE-SEA The festival is held on the quay at Wells-on-the-Sea, Norfolk including readings, discussions and workshops. |
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SALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL the Festival invites artists from around the world to perform over seventeen days & nights in Salisbury and the surrounding area. It contains a light literary component. |
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ST. IVES LITERATURE FESTIVAL A host of events each day during the eight days of the festival - readings, talks, walks, workshops and performance. Each day will start with open readings. |
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SWALEDALE FESTIVAL A general arts festival with some literature events such as poetry workshops. |
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| SWINDON FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE
Comprises talks, readings, and question and answer sessions with authors, performers, and poets; plus writing workshops, discussions, storytelling, and a 'Performance Poetry Slam Competition'. Authors attending include the famous, the infamous, and the unknown. |
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ULLAPOOL BOOK FESTIVAL A three day literary gathering with a balanced programme with readings, talks, workshops. |
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| WENLOCK POETRY FESTIVAL Annual celebration of the very best in poetry. The festival will build upon Shropshire's rich poetic heritage to make Much Wenlock - the heart of Houseman country - a national centre for poetry; celebrating its creativity, recognising its relevance and revelling in its beauty. www.wenlockpoetryfestival.org |
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WORD - UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN WRITERS FESTIVAL Word attracts over 50 authors for a weekend of readings, lectures, debates, music, art exhibitions and film screenings. New festival developments include an extended Schools' and Children’s programme, and a Festival of Gaelic! www.abdn.ac.uk/word |
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NEW WORDS (WORDFRINGE) Aberdeen New Words 2010 presents poets, fiction writers, dramatists, storytellers, comedians, translators, musicians, composers and sound artists, from North-East Scotland and beyond, in the innovative festival exploring the spoken and written word in performance. |
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WOMEN'S ARTS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL (Biennial) Kendal, Cumbria |
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YOUNG READERS BIRMINGHAM Young Readers Birmingham is an annual festival for children, young people and their families offering over 150 events, including a two-day 'Book Bash' at Aston Hall. www.birmingham.gov.uk/youngreader |
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June
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ALTHORPE LITERARY FESTIVAL An array of talks, readings and debates in some of the most beautiful rooms of Althorp House. www.althorp.com/literaryfestival |
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ASHBOURNE FESTIVAL This multi-arts festival has some literary content. Featuring creative writing workshops, poetry, Peak District Writers' Forum, and the songs, stories and music of Derbyshire and the East Midlands. www.ashbournefestival.org |
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BORDERS BOOK FESTIVAL A literary festival on the Scottish Borders, taking place at Harmony Garden, Melrose. www.bordersbookfestival.org |
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BROADSTAIRS DICKENS FESTIVAL A mixed arts family festival inspired by the works of Charles Dickens. Literature events include readings and talks. www.broadstairsdickensfestival.co.uk |
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CHICHESTER FESTIVITIES A mixed arts festival of international orchestras, jazz, contemporary sculpture, including an expanding talks and literature programme. www.chifest.org.uk |
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CORSHAM FESTIVAL A mainly music festival focusing on contemporary music and arts with a small literary content. www.corshamfestival.org.uk |
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DERBYSHIRE LITERATURE FESTIVAL (BIENNIAL) The Derbyshire Literature Festival is a county-wide literature festival celebrating reading, writing and literature in all its forms. www.derbyshire.gov.uk |
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DUBLIN WRITERS FESTIVAL Irish and international writers and poets explore themes including war, loss, national identity and modern Irish values. www.dublinwritersfestival.com |
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| GRASSINGTON FESTIVAL
A general arts and music festival that includes some literary events. The main acts are housed in a festival marquee, but there are shows held in a series of venues including pubs and churches around the village. www.grassington-festival.org.uk |
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HEBDEN BRIDGE ARTS FESTIVAL A general arts festival with literary events. Includes music, spoken word, comedy, children's events, open studio trail, open garden trail, exhibitions and film. www.hebdenbridge.co.uk |
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HUMBER MOUTH: HULL LITERATURE FESTIVAL The Humber Mouth literature festival focuses on local contemporary literary talent as well as visits from well-known poets, authors and performers. The event incorporates the Hull Festival and includes a range of day-time and evening events for all ages. |
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AMMRAMA LISMORE FESTIVAL OF TRAVEL WRITING aN event that investigates the intricacies of travel writing and its associated literature. Local and international writers take part with readings, workshops, exhibitions and film helping to explore the elements of the travel genre. |
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| LEOMINSTER FESTIVAL
The 'all arts' Leominster Festival includes some literary content. www.leominster-festival.co.uk |
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LOWDHAM BOOK FESTIVAL A festival including nationally-known fiction and non-fiction writers, poets, plays and music. In addition to the public events there is an associated schools programme and a year-round programme of literary events in the village. |
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LUDLOW FESTIVAL A multi-arts festival. |
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MIDDLESBOROUGH LITERARY FESTIVAL The ethos of the festival is to celebrate the word in all its forms: written, spoken, sung and created. www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/litfest |
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ST MAGNUS FESTIVAL A midsummer celebration of the arts with a mixed programme of music, drama, dance, visual arts and literature. |
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THAME ARTS & LITERATURE FESTIVAL A celebration of the written word in all its forms. Over its three days, festival- goers will be able to listen to and meet authors and publishers; talk about books, join in debate and take part in writing and creative workshops. |
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TS ELIOT FESTIVAL Little Gidding A weekend of lectures, readings and music, celebrating the life and work of TS Eliot. www.littlegidding.org.uk/eliotfestival |
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POETRY&WORDS AT GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL Spoken word and performance poetry from National and International poets as part of the UK's biggest performance arts and music festival. |
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WINCHESTER WRITERS' CONFERENCE AND BOOKFAIR Enjoy a feast of 43 workshops, 60 lectures and 500 one to one appointments designed to help you harness your creative ideas and develop your professional practice under the guidance of more than 60 leading novelists, poets, playwrights, producers, commissioning editors, literary agents and industry specialists. www.writersconference.co.uk |
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WORLDS LITERARY FESTIVAL Writers’ Centre Norwich invite you to come along and meet writers from countries including India, China, the USA and the UK at five days of events, readings and workshops. www.writerscentrenorwich.org.uk |
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July
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BBC PROMS LITERARY FESTIVAL BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, is accompanied by a Proms Literary Festival which looked at the relationship between writers and composers, with talks from experts on Russian, English and contemporary writers as well as number of special literary commissions. |
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BEYOND THE BORDER: THE WALES INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL An international festival celebrating oral tradition and bringing together storytellers, poets and musicians from around the world. Beyond The Border International Storytelling Festival is the largest event of its type in the UK. www.beyondtheborder.com |
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BUXTON FESTIVAL A major festival of opera, music and literature. |
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DARTINGTON HALL FESTIVAL - WAYS WITH WORDS The Ways with Words Festival - set in the medieval courtyard at Dartington Hall, Devon, this large literature festival has around 200 speakers. www.wayswithwords.co.uk |
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| FESTIVAL AT THE EDGE
Festival at the Edge is a story telling festival. Stories to make you laugh, cry and wonder. FATE is a festival for everyone, as well as for those already bitten by the story bug. The festival has commissioned a major new storytelling performance each year to premiere at the festival. |
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HENLEY FESTIVAL The festival has a mixed programme of classical, opera, jazz, world music, comedy, poetry, street theatre and the visual arts, with nightly firework events. |
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JOHN CLARE FESTIVAL Helpston near Peterborough The festival is a celebration of the life and works of John Clare with poetry readings, talks, discussions and entertainment. www.johnclare.org.uk |
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LATITUDE FESTIVAL Henham Park Estate, Suffolk A large music and arts festival with a stage dedicated to performance poets and writers. www.latitudefestival.co.uk |
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LEDBURY POETRY FESTIVAL Britain’s largest Poetry Festival, brimming with events over ten days every summer. |
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LICHFIELD FESTIVAL A general arts festival with a small literary content. |
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LIVERPOOL ARABIC ARTS FESTIVAL A festival showcasing and celebrating cultural achievements from across the Arab world and its diaspora. Artistic representation comes from Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Yemen, Palestine, France, America and Britain. www.arabicartsfestival.co.uk |
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MANCHESTER CHILDREN'S BOOK FESTIVAL Manchester Children’s Book Festival is aimed at everyone who has ever loved children’s books, with an exciting series of events will run at Manchester Metropolitan University’s city centre campus as well as in a variety of schools, libraries and other venues across the region. www.manchesterchildrensbookfestival.co.uk |
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LONDON LITERATURE FESTIVAL London Literature Festival has an enticing programme of some of the world’s best writers, performances by internationally renowned musicians and hard-hitting debate on contemporary issues by leading commentators. www.londonlitfest.com |
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MIDDLESBOUROUGH LITERATURE FESTIVAL |
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MILVERTON LITERARY FESTIVAL With invited speakers, authors, poets, writers, editors, writing workshops, story telling, debates & book reviews, book clubs and book sellers alongside our Short Story and Poetry competiton for any age. www.red-hot-media.com |
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PORT ELIOT LIT FEST Featuring an eclectic mix of writers, poets, filmmakers and musicians. this is one of GBs most original, magical, bohemian, bookish, colourful, musical and comic festivals. |
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SHOREDITCH FESTIVAL - AROUND THE WORD IN SHOREDITCH A stellar line-up of internationally-renowned and locally based writers and performers in Shoreditch Park from 1pm-7pm as part of the free Shoreditch Festival. www.shoreditchfestival.org.uk |
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THEAKSTON'S OLD PECULIER CRIME WRITING FESTIVAL, Harrogate A murderous mix of panels running the entire gamut of crime fiction from nursery tale misdemeanours to hard-boiled, modern ultra-violence. |
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WEST CORK LITERARY FESTIVAL Readings, workshops, seminars, children's events, exhibitions, music |
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WEST MEON FESTIVAL OF BOOKS Festival with visiting authors, bookbinding, children’s events. A Small informal festival in village setting in South Downs Country Park www.westmeonfestival.co.uk |
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WINCHESTER FESTIVAL A multi-arts festival including classical music, literary events, childrens events, drama, jazz suppers and an open air concert. |
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NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD OF WALES Swansea The Eisteddfod is a cultural, artistic festival; one of the largest perepetic festivals in Europe alternating between south and north Wales. Although competition based, it is a plethora of different arts events - singing, literature, dance, theatre, rock music, art and craft exhibition along with sports elements, science and technology. www.eisteddfod.org.uk
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August
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CHAPEL ALLERTON ARTS FESTIVAL Last year the festival included a street party with live music, stalls, music, food, dance and drama. |
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EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FRINGE An open arts festival comprising over 1,500 events including children's shows, comedy and revue, dance and physical theatre, music, musicals and opera, talks, theatre, spoken word, poetry and visual art. |
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EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL The Edinburgh International Book Festival is the largest celebration of the written word in the world. It gives the public the chance to debate, discuss, discover new horizons, take part in creative workshops and meet favourite and brand new authors. |
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GRAHAM GREENE FESTIVAL A festival celebrating the life and work of Graham Greene featuring a mixture of films, talks and other events. www.grahamgreenebt.org |
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WORDS IN MOTION AT THE BIG CHILL A literary event within a music festival, including cutting-edge debates and poets sampling and mixing their voices to create sound landscapes. www.bigchill.net |
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September
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APPLEDORE BOOK FESTIVAL The Appledore Book Festival takes place over nine days in the fishing village of Appledore North Devon. The festival remit to spread a love of reading and learning with innovative events and raise money for the Appledore Library and reading projects for disadvantaged children. |
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ATHLONE LITERARY FESTIVAL The festival is aimed at readers and writers and all those who enjoy good conversation and good literature. www.athloneliteraryfestival.com |
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THE BATH FESTIVAL OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE The Bath Festival of Children’s Literature is a 10-day celebration of children’s books and reading, and will feature some of the biggest and most creative names from the world of children’s publishing. |
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BIG OAK LITERARY ARTS FESTIVAL Londonderry The literary stream takes palce alongside music, poetry and a few recitals. www.bigoakartsfest.com |
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BRISTOL POETRY FESTIVAL Poetic readings and performances selected to showcase and celebrate the diversity of poetry in all it's forms. Discover the power of poetry to transform. |
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BUDLEIGH SALTERTON FESTIVAL A historically themed literature festival. |
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CHISWICK BOOK FESTIVAL The Chiswick Book Festival hosts a wide range of different litrary events, lectures, workshops and childrens’ events. |
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ESSEX POETRY FESTIVAL Chelmsford Featuring special guests, mass workshops and open mic events. |
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HAMPSTEAD AND HIGHGATE FESTIVAL The Hampstead and Highgate Festival is a celebration of the Arts, embracing music, film, visual arts, theatre, literature and dance. www.hamandhighfest.co.uk |
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HENLEY LITERARY FESTIVAL One of the country's leading literary events among authors and publishers, as well as audiences that features readings and discussions by poets, authors and celebrities. |
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INDEPENDANT WOODSTOCK LITERARY FESTIVAL A mix of national and international speakers, controversial debates, lectures, discussion and book launches, together with a pub quiz, literary lunches and teas. There are opportunities to meet and talk with authors, novelists, critics, journalists and commentators in a relaxed and informal atmosphere www.woodstockliteraryfestival.com |
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ISLAY BOOK FESTIVAL A book festival for children and adults. www.ohhnice.com/islaybook |
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RYE ARTS FESTIVAL A general arts festival with some literature events. |
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SEVENOAKS LITERARY CELEBRATION www.sevenoaksliterarycelebration.com |
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SMALL WONDER Charleston The UK's only festival dedicated entirely to the short story featuring celebrated contemporary writers in an array of thought- provoking talks and debates. www.charleston.org.uk/smallwonder |
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SW11 LITERARY FESTIVAL The Festival offers book lovers the opportunity to meet well known authors and the chance to discover new ones, at book signings and readings all over SW11. Visitors may attend workshops to sharpen their own writing talent, plus there are children's author events, foodie events and even a poetry event from our very own, poet in residence. www.clapham-Junction.com |
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TENBY ARTS FESTIVAL A music, arts and literature festival. This seaside event includes classic orchestral performances and jazz, Welsh choirs and soloists, sand sculptures and sambas and an increasingly strong participation of writers and performing poets.
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THROCKMORTON LITERARY FESTIVAL Warwickshire Over three days, the Throckmorton Literary Festival hosts a stimulating line-up of writers for discussions and readings |
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WIGTOWN LITERARY FESTIVAL Held in Scotland's national Book Town with literary readings, group discussions, interviews and book launches plus music and children's events. |
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WORDPLAY SHETLAND Run by Shetland Arts, Shetland's annual Book festival features a variety of events for children and adults: readings, book signings, talks, book launches and workshops in creative writing as well as a chance to browse round a variety of book stalls. |
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October
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BAY LIT FESTIVAL (BIENNIAL) Biennial, bilingual, (Welsh and English) multicultural celebration of Welsh literature. Organised by the Welsh Academi. |
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BELFAST FESTIVAL AT QUEEN'S The Festival covers all art forms including theatre, dance, classical music, literature, jazz, comedy, visual arts, folk music and popular music including the ever-popular BT Talks programme featuring big names from the world of literature. |
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BEVERLEY LITERATURE FESTIVAL Ten days of writing, conversation, reading groups, workshops and performances. |
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BEWDLEY FESTIVAL A general festival with music and entertainment. The festival has a small number of literature events. www.bewdleyfestival.org.uk |
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BIRMINGHAM BOOK FESTIVAL Featuring appearances from leading contemporary authors plus a range of special events, book launches, late-night events, installations, canal boat writing, film screenings and workshops (e.g. writing for radio, travel writing, writing for children). www.birminghambookfestival.org |
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BOURNEMOUTH LITERARY FESTIVAL An international and multicultural festival that exhibits and introduces new and old fiction and poetry set in an international arena both in original English text and translations with music, dance and drama as a backdrop. www.bournemouthliteraryfestival.co.uk |
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BURNHAM MARKET BOOK FESTIVAL A weekend of talks from an exciting list of well-known authors www.whitehouse-books.co.uk |
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CANTERBURY FESTIVAL General Arts Festival featuring International artists, returning favourites and quirky twists on the classics. |
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CHAPTER & VERSE LITERATURE FESTIVAL LIVERPOOL Merseyside’s new literature festival bringing a wide selection of events for lovers of words - readings, book signings, talks, discussions, performances and workshops. |
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THE TIMES CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival is a celebration of award-winning writers, world-renowned thinkers and international star names – with more than 450 events over the ten day Festival. At its heart the Festival rejoices in the joy of books, the thrill of debate and the unique interaction between writer and reader. |
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CHESTER LITERATURE FESTIVAL From Roman street names and medieval scripts to modern literature. Chester celebrates a mix of top authors, book signings, workshops and events throughout the month. |
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CRYSTAL PALACE CHILDREN'S BOOK FESTIVAL A boutique literary festival for children It’s for one day only, and runs more like a music festival stage, allowing the audience to hear and see new authors and illustrators without needing tickets. The free events and workshops take place in the local bookshop, gallery and library. |
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DURHAM BOOK FESTIVAL Durham Book Festival remains the longest running and largest literature festival in the North East of England and includes a programme of forty seven events over a ten day period, across twelve different venues throughout the County. For every taste and every age group, across a range of subjects from fiction and poetry to nature and sports. www.bookfestival.org.uk |
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DYLAN THOMAS FESTIVAL: A REFUSAL TO MOURN A mixture of readings, talks, theatre, music, art, film and celebrity guests. |
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EXETER POETRY FESTIVAL A four day celebration of poetry in Exeter, Devon featuring poetry writing workshops, poetry readings, spoken word, a poetry bookshop and much more. www.exeterpoetryfestival.com |
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EYPE AUTUMN 2010 ‘BOOK ‘N AUTHOR’ WEEKS LITERARY FESTIVAL The second of two annual intimate and informal Literary Festivals with a cornucopia of top national and local writers presenting their current titles with active audience participation, book sales and signing sessions. Mainly biographies and autobiographies but also historical novels, current affairs, travel and some light entertainment. |
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FRINTON LITERARY FESTIVAL www.thebestof.co.uk/local/frinton-and-walton/events/252604/frinton-literary-festival |
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GUILDFORD BOOK FESTIVAL An exciting and varied programme of events featuring many of Britain's finest writers and celebrities. |
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HAVANT LITERARY FESTIVAL A literary festival providing new opportunities for residents and visitors to experience literature in direct, accessible and dynamic ways bringing the best national writing and performing talent to Havant. Local people of all ages are active in its making through the poetry and short story competitions, practical workshops and as performers in many of the theatre and outdoor events. www.havantlitfest.org.uk |
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ILKLEY LITERATURE FESTIVAL This festival includes top national and international names, authors events, discussions, workshops, poetry and short story competitions, literary walks, Festival Fringe, readers' events, a popular Open Mic, a Children's Literature Festival Weekend and special events for National Poetry Day. |
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INVERNESS BOOK FESTIVAL Five days of literature featuring fiction and non-fiction readings and events. www.invernessbookfestival.co.uk |
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KNUTSFORD LITERATURE FESTIVAL An eclectic mix of novelists, biographers and writers on specialist subjects including history, fiction, biography, politics and a National Poetry Day event in which you can take part. www.knutsfordlitfest.org |
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LANCASTER LITFEST Annual literature festival, running poetry and fiction events and writing workshops through the year. |
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LEWES LIVE LITERATURE FESTIVAL Lewes Live Literature presents its annual autumn festival of literature and the arts, as ever featuring an eclectic mix of performance and spoken word events. |
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LIT.COM A lighter literature festival featuring guest authors and poets, professional children's theatre productions, workshops and film screenings as well as the best in UK stand up. |
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LICHFIELD LITERATURE Four days of author talks, creative writing workshops, education events for children, and a literary dinner, all in this compact Cathedral City in the heart of England. |
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LITERARY DUNDEE A combination of workshops, readings and informal talks by national and internationally renowned authors. www.literarydundee.co.uk |
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LIVERPOOL IRISH FESTIVAL The Liverpool Irish Festival Society has developed a permanent, annual, multiple venue event to celebrate Liverpool's considerable Irish heritage. The festival includes performance, participation, entertainment and education in Irish traditions, music, literature, theatre and art. |
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MANCHESTER LITERATURE FESTIVAL The programme will feature readings by some of the world's finest authors and newly commissioned work. |
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MERE LITERARY FESTIVAL A small literary festival that includes events, talks, workshops and a short story competition. |
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MORLEY LITERATURE FESTIVAL Morley Literature Festival in South Leeds is an annual week-long festival celebrating books, reading and writing www.morleyliteraturefestival.co.uk |
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NEW WRITERS UK BOOK FAYRE Nottingham Creative writing talks, workshops, readings, snapshot talks. Books and artwork for sale |
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NORTH PENNINES STORYTELLING FESTIVAL Eden, Tynedale, Teesdale and Weardale www.npenninestorytelling.org.uk |
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POOLE LITERARY FESTIVAL A chance to meet leading authors, attend discussions, storytelling events, literary walks, workshops, poetry and much more in the historic Dorset seaside town. Events for adults, children and families. |
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TORBAY POETRY FESTIVAL A long weekend devoted to poetry through readings, workshops, and various imaginative events. Usually 20 - 25 events, many free, combining local and national poets. |
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SAFFRON WALDEN LITERARY FESTIVAL www.hartsevents.co.uk |
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SCOTTISH INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL Edinburgh Festival events host authentic voices from home and abroad at the hearth of Scotland. Storytelling performance events are complemented by talks and discussions, film screenings, participative workshops, 'Meet the Storyteller' sessions and an international networking day for storytellers and network members. www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk |
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SENTINEL LITERATURE FESTIVAL London Features readings and performances of poetry, fiction, drama and comedy. There will also be lectures and talks that will educate and inspire audiences. |
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UEA INTERNATIONAL LITERATURE FESTIVAL AUTUMN University of East Anglia A year-long series of readings and discussions by literary figures. www.uea.ac.uk/litfest |
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WARWICK WORDS - FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE AND SPOKEN WORD A long weekend festival which holds a poetry competition to find the Warwick Poet Laureate, and creative writing workshops. The festival also features performances, a literary lunch, Warwick slam competition, afternoon teas, talks and workshops, children’s book fair, a poetry pub crawl and lots more. |
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WELLINGTON LITERARY FESTIVAL A festival to celebrate and promote a wide range of literature to all ages... accessible for all and working in partnership with the community www.wellington-shropshire.gov.uk |
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WELLS FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE With lectures, readings, children's events, poetry workshops and international poetry and short story competitions. www.wlitf.co.uk |
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WETHERBY FESTIVAL (BIENNIAL) Arts festival featuring some literary events. |
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WIGTOWN BOOK FESTIVAL often been described as a sort Hay-on-Wye with a kilt: this is the largest annual literary gathering in Scotland outside Edinburgh. |
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WOLDS WORDS This annual literature festival to capture the imagination www.woldswords.org.uk |
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WONDERFULWORDS - CORNWALL LIBRARY BOOK FESTIVAL The countywide festival comprises of children's literary events during September, a week long Poetry Festival in early October along with a month of adult literary events throughout October. |
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WOODSTOCK CELEBRATES BOOKS A celebration of all things literary, this event is staged by the same team that organises The Oxford Literary Festival. |
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November
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ALDEBURGH INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL Aldeburgh always generates its own unique atmosphere with 47 events – 13 free – you can create your own Festival experience and mix the main readings with workshops, craft talks, discussions, cabaret, masterclass, exhibitions and even an open mic if you want to strut your stuff! |
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CHORLEYWOOD LITERATURE FESTIVAL Chorleywood Litfest features fascinating events to suit every taste. We also offer creative writing and events for children. There are also writing competitions for all ages. Whether you are a budding writer or want to meet your favourite writer, we are passionate about inspiring you. www.cwlitfest.org |
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FOLKESTONE BOOK FESTIVAL Folkestone Book Festival plays host to a packed week of entertaining live performances from well known and emerging authors and poets including a wide number of events for children and young people. www.folkestonelitfest.co.uk |
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INTERNATIONAL PLAYWRITING FESTIVAL New work from all over the world brought to life at the Warehouse Theatre's annual International Playwriting Festival. Celebrating the work of new playwrights and consolidating the theatre's role as a powerhouse of new writing. |
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LAVENHAM LITERARY FESTIVAL The festival, backed by the East Anglian Daily Times, will feature bestselling authors. www.visit-suffolk.org.uk |
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LENNOXLOVE BOOK FESTIVAL Haddington, East Lothian Literary discussions, readings and performances from well known authors and celebrities. |
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NORTHERN CHILDREN'S BOOK FESTIVAL Blyth Community College, Northumberland NCBF is Europe's largest children's book festival. More than 40 of the UK's finest children's writers, poets, illustrators and storytellers take. |
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RICHMOND UPON THAMES LITERATURE FESTIVAL Running throughout November, there will be a lively selection of literature events, at interesting varied venues across the borough, with high-profile authors, TV personalities, journalists, poets, politicians and some newer voices; all of which mean a diverse and enthralling array of literary delights for all ages to enjoy. www.richmond.gov.uk/literature_festival |
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SMALL PUBLISHERS FAIR International artists’ book fair featuring over fifty publishers of books by contemporary artists, poets, writers and composers. Plus readings, talks and book launches. Meet and talk with artists, designers, poets and publishers. www.rgap.co.uk |
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SOUTHWOLD LITERATURE FESTIVAL Part of the Ways with Words series of literature festivals, Southwold Literature Festival is held in a small seaside resort, gives people a chance to engage with books and ideas. |
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December
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BRIGHTON INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL Brighton Poetry Festival has a range of events and activities at venues around the city. |
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