Explore Britain's best literary festivals

Established in 1949, the Cheltenham Literature Festival is the UK’s oldest annual festival of its type and welcomes more than 600 of the world’s writers, politicians, poets and actors to celebrate the written word.

Paying homage to Britain’s iconic literary sisters, the Brontë Festival of Women’s Writing draws both writers and readers to the Brontë Parsonage Museum to celebrate women’s literature. Settle down for talks from much-loved authors, poets, and book agencies – as well as engaging workshops and fun, free activities for all ages. 

Discover the world of words at Newark Book Festival, with some of the biggest global names in literature. The festival features a mix of events including stage and street performances, author talks and readings, workshops, a four-day literature market in the Royal Market Place, and a dedicated family day at Newark Castle.

There’s a whole lot to digest at this annual festival that celebrates all things from literature, music, spoken word and more. Expect a jam-packed programme of events that covers ten brilliant days of live music, literary workshops, family-friendly events and poetry. Find something that you fancy in various locations around the city. Previous years have welcomed Sir Lenny Henry and Sir Michael Palin as special guests.

Welcoming around 900 authors to its new location at Lauriston Place in the heart of the city, the Edinburgh International Book Festival includes more than 800 events for you to enjoy.

The Bath Children’s Literature Festival is Europe’s biggest festival dedicated to children’s literature, offering you and your youngsters a chance to meet the creators of their literary heroes.

The London Literary Festival takes place on London’s South Bank Centre and brings together writers, journalists and creative thinkers for 11 days of readings, talks, poetry and performance.