From palaces to cobbled alleys, and a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.
Explore Britain's best literary festivals
Bookworms rejoice; Britain is home to a myriad of top-class literary festivals taking place at some of the finest historical locations. Meet your favourite writers, enjoy expert discussions and hear live readings at one of these landmark literary events taking place throughout the year.
From readings in the shadow of historical buildings to city centre pop-up shows, Britain’s literary calendar has something for every taste. You’ll find plenty of immersive experiences dotted across the country, too. From the homes of writing greats to exhibitions dedicated to their work.
A guide to some of Britain's best literary festivals
More literature festivals in Britain
The Last Word Festival
6 – 30 June 2024
Through spoken word, workshops and more, The Last Word Festival at The Roundhouse, London, offers a wide range of stories from different walks of life. Look out for the poetry slam, too.
Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival
18 – 21 July 2024
Find out ‘whodunit’ at this literature festival in Harrogate, Yorkshire, packed with authors, agents, publishers, editors and readers.
Queen’s Park Book Festival
31 Aug – 1 Sept 2024
For literary arts in the heart of London head to the Queen’s Park Book festival for a weekend of authors, artists, poets and actors.
Marlborough LitFest
26 – 29 Sept 2024
covering a range genres across fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children’s authors and more, the Marlborough LitFest in Wiltshire has something for all.
Henley Literary Festival
28 Sept – 6 Oct 2024
Held across a range of venues is the Henley Literature Festival, including talks, performances and discussions for all ages with big names in literature.
Petworth Literary Festival
18 Oct – 3 Nov 2024
With discussions and debates, the Petworth Literary Festival in West Sussex has welcomed big names in literature, including Andy McNab, Sebastian Faulks and Michael Palin.