The Best Literary Festivals in the UK for 2024
Experience the world of books and ideas at the UK's most prominent literary festivals in 2024, where readers and writers unite to explore, engage, and be entertained.
Bay Tales Live
(2 March 2024, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear)
Bay Tales Live, which made its debut in February 2022, is set to return in 2024 for its third annual one-day celebration of literary intrigue. This festival has swiftly carved out a niche for itself, captivating attendees with a dedicated focus on the riveting world of crime fiction. The previous year's lineup was a testament to the festival's commitment to excellence, featuring over 15 of the UK's most acclaimed and bestselling crime and mystery authors. As this event gears up for its next iteration, enthusiasts of the genre can look forward to another day filled with suspenseful narratives, engaging discussions, and the unique opportunity to delve into the minds of their favorite storytellers.
Sherborne Travel-Writing Festival
(April 2024, Sherborne, Dorset)
The inaugural Sherborne Travel-Writing Festival, hosted in the picturesque abbey town of Dorset in April 2023, was a celebration of the art of exploration and storytelling. The festival brought together ten of Britain's most distinguished travel writers, who shared their rich tapestries of experiences traversing the world's jungles, cities, rivers, deserts, plains, oceans, and mountains. Serving as a poignant reminder of the boundless spirit of travel, especially following the challenges and constraints of recent years, the festival underscored travel's role as a vital catalyst for understanding, a balm for the soul. With the success of its first edition, there is a hopeful anticipation for the festival's return in 2024, promising another journey of inspiration and discovery for travel aficionados and literary enthusiasts alike.
sherbornetravelwritingfestival.com
Cambridge Literary Festival
(17–21 April 2024, Cambridge)
The Cambridge Literary Festival returns next spring, bringing together esteemed writers and speakers. The festival has confirmed several speakers, including Armistead Maupin, Caroline Lucas, George The Poet, Christian Lewis, and Jackie Kay, with more to be announced. The festival will showcase emerging writers alongside established names and will take place in the town's historic venues. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with exciting voices in contemporary literature.
cambridgeliteraryfestival.com.
Firsts: London’s Rare Book Fair
(16–19 May 2024, Saatchi Gallery, London)
Firsts: London's Rare Book Fair is an absolute treasure trove for enthusiasts of old and rare books. While the theme for the 2024 fair remains to be announced, the previous year's fair marked a significant milestone, celebrating four centuries since the publication of Shakespeare’s First Folio with the theme ‘Shakespeare: 400 Years of Influence’. The fair played host to over 100 esteemed antiquarian dealers from around the globe, presenting an extensive and diverse array of literary artifacts. Anticipation is high for the 2024 fair, with expectations set for a similarly impressive showcase of unique and historical materials, continuing the fair's tradition of bringing the rich tapestry of literary history to life for collectors and bibliophiles alike.
Hay Festival
(23 May–2 June 2024, Hay-on-Wye)
The Hay Festival is an annual literary and ideas festival that brings together readers and writers to inspire, examine, and entertain. The festival takes place in the charming town of Hay-on-Wye, located on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The festival has made the town famous for its love of books, which is evident in its many secondhand and antiquarian bookshops. Visitors can expect to hear from world-renowned and emerging writers who will discuss fiction and non-fiction, as well as policymakers, pioneers, and innovators who will explore global issues and big ideas across eight stages. Additionally, the festival includes school days and family events during the day, followed by music, comedy, and entertainment in the evenings.
Queen’s Reading Room Festival
(8 June 2024, Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey)
The Queen's Reading Room Festival, launched in 2023, swiftly captivated literary enthusiasts with its unique blend of cultural offerings set in the majestic ambiance of Hampton Court Palace. This one-day literary extravaganza fused the joys of street food, the rhythmic allure of spoken poetry, insightful literary tours, and engaging Q&As with distinguished personalities such as Dame Judi Dench. The festival's resounding success has paved the way for a highly anticipated sequel in 2024. While specifics are yet to be unveiled, the forthcoming edition promises to build on the splendor and vibrancy of its predecessor. Keep an eye out for further announcements, as the Queen's Reading Room Festival is poised to offer another enriching chapter of literary delight.
The Last Word Festival
(TBC, June 2024, The Roundhouse, London)
The Last Word Festival, which marked its momentous tenth anniversary in 2023, stands as a beacon of literary and poetic brilliance. At the heart of this celebrated festival is the acclaimed Roundhouse Poetry Slam, a vibrant showcase of rhythmic prowess and lyrical ingenuity. However, the festival's allure extends far beyond the slam itself. Attendees are treated to a rich tapestry of performances and discussions, featuring an eclectic mix of poets, writers, and collective voices. Each element of the festival is meticulously curated to foster a dynamic atmosphere where words dance, ideas flourish, and diverse narratives intertwine, ensuring that every visitor leaves with a renewed appreciation for the power and beauty of the written and spoken word.
Mayfair Times Literary Festival
(TBC, June 2024, London)
Endorsed by prestigious partners Auriens Chelsea and Montblanc, the third edition of the Mayfair Times Literary Festival transformed west London into a literary hub in the summer of 2023. This illustrious festival celebrated the written word through an extensive and vibrant program, featuring a constellation of star-studded talks, immersive literary walks, intellectually stimulating quizzes, elegant cocktail evenings, captivating theatre performances, insightful panel discussions, and a plethora of other enriching activities. The event not only showcased literary brilliance but also offered a platform for cultural exchange and intellectual engagement. As anticipation builds, keep an eye out for the announcement of the 2024 festival details, promising another season of literary splendor and cultural enrichment in the heart of Mayfair.
Wealden Festival
(TBC, June 2024, Boldshaves Garden, Ashford)
The Wealden Festival, a vibrant celebration of nature, creativity, and the great outdoors, brought together an impressive array of literary figures in 2023 to lead workshops centered around the environment, mental health, and the arts. Esteemed personalities like Michael Morpurgo, Dara McAnulty, Kimberley Wilson, AC Grayling, former Poet Laureate Andrew Motion, Will Gompertz, Keggie Carew, Gaia Vince, and Madeleine Bunting contributed their insights at this family-oriented event. Since its inception in 2015, the festival has been a platform for exploring significant contemporary issues through a blend of talks, debates, creative workshops, and interactive outdoor activities. Topics ranged from sustainable lifestyle practices and environmental stewardship to enhancing wellbeing through nutrition, mindfulness, and meditation. With its roots firmly planted in promoting holistic living and environmental consciousness, the festival eagerly anticipates unveiling what's in store for 2024.
wealdenliteraryfestival.co.uk.
Bradford Literature Festival
(28 June–7 July 2024, Bradford, West Yorkshire)
Designated as the City of Culture for 2025, Bradford is home to the transformative Bradford Literature Festival, a beacon of world-class arts and literature that champions inclusivity and accessibility for all. Since its inception in 2014, the festival has ignited the imaginations of over 100,000 children and young people, enriching minds and altering lives through the power of storytelling and cultural engagement. The 2024 festival will mark a significant milestone, celebrating its 10th anniversary. This annual literary celebration is renowned for its commitment to social inclusion, ensuring that every voice is heard and every narrative is valued. It stands at the forefront of promoting diversity, accessibility, and representation, consistently featuring pioneering voices from the UK and across the globe. As the festival approaches its decade landmark, it continues to shape the cultural landscape, weaving together a tapestry of stories that resonate and inspire.
Petworth Festival
(10–27 July 2024, West Sussex)
The Petworth Festival consistently dazzles with its array of celebrated guests and literary luminaries. The 2022 edition was no exception, boasting an impressive lineup including the likes of Hugh Bonneville, Ben Okri, Kate Mosse, and Charlotte Mullins, who delved into the significance of art. Notable appearances also included Michael Parkinson, sharing insights into the realm of sports, and Andrew Gimson, shedding light on his experience as Boris Johnson's biographer, among others. The 2023 festival maintained this high standard, offering an equally rich roster of events and discussions. With the 2024 festival on the horizon and new summer dates already set, anticipation is building for another season of engaging conversations and star-studded appearances.
Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival
(18–21 July 2024, Harrogate)
The Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival stands out as a premier event, honoring the finest in crime fiction. Marking its 20th anniversary in 2023, the festival attracted an illustrious assembly of authors to Harrogate, including Val McDermid, Lee Child, Andrew Child, Lisa Jewell, Ruth Ware, Ann Cleeves, Jeffery Deaver, Lucy Worsley, S. A. Cosby, and Chris Hammer, for captivating discussions and panels. As excitement builds, stay tuned for updates about the 2024 festival, which promises another enriching experience under the expert curation of Ruth Ware.
harrogateinternationalfestivals.com
Cliveden Literary Festival
(21–22 September 2024, Cliveden House, Taplow, Berkshire)
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cliveden House, a quintessential British country estate, is a celebration of literary history and excellence. Esteemed since 1666 for its prestigious literary salons, the estate has played host to literary giants such as Alexander Pope and Sir Winston Churchill. This historic festival offers an unrivaled experience, blending the charm of tradition with contemporary literary brilliance. Last year's festival boasted an illustrious roster of speakers, including the renowned Zadie Smith, Tom Holland, Mary Beard, and Maggie O’Farrell. Each year, the festival continues to captivate attendees with a stellar lineup of remarkable writers, making it an essential event for literary enthusiasts.
Marlborough LitFest
(26–29 September 2024, Marlborough, Wiltshire)
Supported by Fermoie, Marlborough LitFest is set for its return in 2024, continuing its tradition of showcasing emerging talents alongside literary stalwarts. The festival's 2023 edition featured the acclaimed Irish author Sebastian Barry as the Golding Speaker. While the headline act for 2024 remains under wraps, be sure to stay tuned for the big reveal. Dedicated to nurturing a passion for reading among the young, the festival offers a delightful mix of author discussions, engaging competitions, and family-friendly activities, promising an enriching experience for attendees of all ages.
North Cornwall Book Festival
(27–29 September 2024, St Endellion Church, Port Isaac)
The North Cornwall Book Festival brings a unique charm to the literary scene. This intimate, locally-curated event stands out with its authentic spirit and heartfelt dedication to the literary arts. While it may not feature the headline-grabbing names of larger festivals, it more than compensates with its vibrant atmosphere and genuine passion for storytelling. Offering a rich tapestry of workshops, readings, and performances throughout the weekend, this hidden gem of a festival promises an unforgettable experience for those who attend.
Queen’s Park Book Festival
(TBC, September 2024, Queen’s Park, London)
Queen’s Park Book Festival proudly continues its rich literary heritage, a tradition steeped in the creative endeavors of authors, artists, poets, and actors. It perpetuates this legacy by offering a stage for emerging talents to shine. In 2023, attendees had the privilege of engaging with celebrated figures such as Robert Harris, Clover Stroud, and Juliet Rosenfeld. The festival also featured enlightening discussions from Oskar Jensen and Dr. John Woolf, who delved into the obscure narratives of marginalized Victorians, ensuring that the festival remains a vibrant hub of literary discovery and historical exploration.
Brontë Festival of Women’s Writing
(TBC, September 2024, Brontë Parsonage Museum, Keighley)
Celebrate the power of the pen and the allure of the great outdoors at the 12th annual Brontë Festival of Women’s Writing, hosted at the historic Brontë Parsonage Museum, the iconic residence of the Brontë family. This festival is a tribute to the enduring legacy of women's voices, spotlighting those at the forefront of sustainability dialogues and creative innovation. The event boasts an impressive lineup of speakers including Nabeela Ahmed, a multilingual poet, spoken word artist, and author from Bradford; Katy Beskow, a vegan culinary writer set to introduce her ninth cookbook, ‘Easy Speedy Vegan’; and Emma Mitchell, a multifaceted talent known for her work as an author, naturalist, illustrator, and BBC Springwatch contributor.
Henley Literary Festival
(28 September–6 October 2024, Henley)
The Henley Literary Festival stands as a distinguished event in the annual literary festival circuit, drawing literary aficionados to the picturesque town of Henley. Each year, the festival is a beacon for prominent literary personalities, offering a diverse array of engaging talks, insightful panels, and dynamic workshops. Attendees have the privilege of interacting with a spectrum of literary talents, from poets and authors to influential figures in the literary world. Notably, in 2023, the festival featured an appearance by the esteemed former British Prime Minister Theresa May, adding a layer of political depth and discourse to the rich literary tapestry of the event. The Henley Literary Festival is indeed a marquee event, promising a blend of intellectual stimulation and cultural enrichment for all who partake.
Cheltenham Literature Festival
(TBC, October 2024, Cheltenham)
The Times and The Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival holds the distinguished title of being the UK's longest-standing literary festival. Renowned for its extraordinary annual line-up, the festival brings together a stellar assembly of luminaries from the realms of literature and entertainment. With an expansive offering of over 500 events, including workshops, interviews, and debates, the festival curates an enriching and dynamic experience for attendees. The 2023 edition continued this legacy of excellence, featuring an exceptional roster of talent, including the likes of Andi Osho, Elizabeth Day, Jacqueline Wilson, Michael Rosen, and Judy Murray. The Cheltenham Literature Festival remains a beacon of literary and cultural brilliance, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and creative inspiration.
London Literature Festival
(23 October–3 November 2024, Southbank Centre, London)
The London Literature Festival stands as the epitome of literary grandeur in the capital, consistently drawing a constellation of literary and cultural titans. Renowned for its heavyweight lineup, the festival has seen illustrious figures such as Hilary Clinton, Philip Pullman, and Tom Hanks grace its stage, each event becoming a landmark in the city's cultural calendar. The 2023 edition further elevated the festival's prestige, featuring an array of luminaries including George the Poet, Yu Miri, Teju Cole, Sir Patrick Stewart, Jada Pinkett Smith, Kerry Washington, and Jacqueline Wilson, among others. Notably, the festival also hosted a compelling panel of climate advocates led by the iconic Greta Thunberg. As anticipation builds, the 2024 edition promises to continue this legacy of excellence, offering a tapestry of literary and cultural richness. Stay tuned for the unveiling of another sensational program in the upcoming year.
Ilkley Literature Festival
(TBC, October 2024, Ilkley)
Celebrating its golden jubilee, the north's most venerable literary festival marked its 50th year in October 2023. As we eagerly anticipate the lineup for the 2024 edition, we reflect on the festival's illustrious inception by poet W.H. Auden in 1973. The 2023 Ilkley Literature Festival graced the charming Yorkshire spa town with an array of distinguished poets, novelists, journalists, and biographers. Notable attendees included children's literary icon Dame Jacqueline Wilson, esteemed TV presenter Clare Balding, and the current Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, adding to the rich tapestry of the festival's history.
ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk.
Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival
(TBC, October 2024, Harrogate)
The Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival has a storied history of hosting an illustrious array of literary figures and notable personalities. Past festivals have seen the likes of Louise Minchin, Sir Tim Waterstone, and Tom Bradby grace the event. A notable highlight was in 2019 when former Prime Minister David Cameron engaged in an in-depth conversation with James Langlade, the BBC’s diplomatic correspondent, about his provocative memoir, 'For the Record'. The 2023 edition continued this tradition of excellence, featuring a stellar lineup including the likes of Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Rosemary Shrager, Andy McNab, and Gaby Roslin. As anticipation builds, all eyes are on the reveal of what the 2024 festival has in store.
harrogateinternationalfestivals.com.
DESIblitz Literature Festival
(TBC, October 2024, Birmingham)
The DESIblitz Literature Festival shines a spotlight on the rich tapestry of British South Asian voices in the literary world. The 2022 edition skillfully blended in-person and digital formats, offering a dynamic array of author talks, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. The festival boasted an eclectic lineup featuring culinary maestro from Ready Steady Cook, Romy Gill, acclaimed writer Saima Mir, renowned DJ Tommy Sandhu, and beloved children's author Bali Rai. While specifics for the 2024 edition are yet to be unveiled, the festival promises to continue its tradition of fostering literary excellence. Aspiring writers also have much to look forward to, as a cadre of esteemed literary figures share their insights and strategies for navigating the publishing world
Bridport Literary Festival
(TBC, November 2024, Bridport, Dorset)
Anticipation is building for the return of Bridport's cherished annual literary festival in 2024, set to envelop the quaint town of Dorset in a celebration of literary delight during the crisp autumn days. The 2023 festival saw throngs of book enthusiasts converging on this charming locale, drawn by eminent personalities like Clive Myrie and Alastair Campbell. As we look forward to the 2024 edition, excitement is particularly high as it marks the festival's milestone 20th anniversary. This special edition is poised to offer an unforgettable fusion of literary enrichment and community spirit, continuing Bridport's legacy as a beacon of literary joy.
Each festival offers a unique blend of talks, panels, and performances celebrating literature and creative thought. Stay tuned for specific details and dates as they become available.
What is the meaning of literary festival?
A literary festival, also known as a book festival or writers' festival, is a community event that celebrates literature and the arts. It typically brings together authors, poets, readers, and publishers to participate in activities such as book readings, writing workshops, panel discussions, and public interviews. These festivals aim to promote literacy, encourage writing and reading, foster a love for literature, and provide a platform for cultural exchange and intellectual discourse.
What is the most famous literature festival in the world?
The Hay Festival in Hay-on-Wye, Wales, is often cited as one of the most famous literary festivals in the world. Renowned for its wide range of events and its ability to attract high-profile authors and intellectuals, the Hay Festival has established itself as a significant event in the international literary calendar. It's not just a celebration of literature but also includes discussions on a wide range of topics including politics, arts, and science.
What is the largest international literary festival in the world?
The Jaipur Literature Festival in India is considered one of the largest international literary festivals in the world. Held annually in Jaipur, Rajasthan, it has grown significantly since its inception and attracts visitors, speakers, and authors from across the globe. The festival is known for its diverse programming and for providing a platform for both renowned international authors and emerging local talent.
What happens at a literary festival?
At a literary festival, attendees can engage in a variety of activities centered around literature and the arts. Common features include:
Author Readings and Book Signings:
Authors read excerpts from their work and interact with the audience, followed by signing sessions.
Panel Discussions and Interviews:
Authors, intellectuals, and industry professionals discuss various topics, themes, and trends in literature.
Writing Workshops:
Interactive sessions where budding writers can learn and hone their craft under the guidance of established authors.
Cultural Performances:
Music, dance, and dramatic performances that add a dynamic and cultural dimension to the festival.
Networking Opportunities:
Attendees, authors, and industry professionals mingle, fostering connections and opportunities for collaboration.
Exhibitions and Sales:
Book stalls and exhibitions where publishers and authors display and sell their works.
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