Top UK Literary Festivals to Attend in 2025

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(And why you should attend them this year!)

Listen up, writers, readers, and lovers of words—this is your sign to grab your planners, set your reminders, and start manifesting some literary magic. The UK is packed with book festivals, writing events, and book fairs this year, and if you’re serious about your craft, your creativity, or just being in a room full of people who also get way too excited about the smell of new books—then you need to be there.

Because here’s the thing: great writers don’t just sit at their desks. They show up. They step into spaces where creativity is buzzing. They learn from the best. They network. They get inspired. And they walk away with new ideas, new friends, and maybe even new opportunities. So, let’s get into it.

Why You Need to Be at a Literary Festival This Year

  • Because Inspiration is Contagious. Listen to the authors who have been where you are. Sit in on the workshops that will make you see your writing in a whole new way. Let the words wash over you and refill your creative well.
  • Because Networking Isn’t Just for Business Bros. Writing might be a solo act, but publishing? That’s a team sport. You never know who you’ll meet—agents, editors, fellow writers, your next critique partner. The person sitting next to you in a panel could change the course of your writing career.
  • Because You Deserve a Getaway That’s Actually About You. Forget the boring conferences and work trips. This is a trip for your soul. A weekend (or week!) dedicated to books, stories, and people who love them just as much as you do.
  • Because Volunteering Can Get You a Front Row Seat. Many of these festivals offer volunteer positions—meaning you get to be part of the action while saving some cash. You’re helping bring stories to life and getting a backstage pass to the literary world. Win-win.

UK-Wide Literary Festivals & Book Fairs

  • 📍 Oxford Literary Festival (March 29 – April 6, 2025) – Big names, big ideas, and a dreamy setting. Classic. Intellectual. Everything you imagine an Oxford-based event to be. (More info)
  • 📍 Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival (March 7–8 & September 17–21, 2025) – Small town, big heart. This coastal gem of a festival is all about community, craft, and conversation. (More info)
  • 📍 Bournemouth Writing Festival (April 25–27, 2025) – New kid on the block, but already a must-attend. Perfect for writers looking to hone their skills and get inspired. (More info)
  • 📍 Hay Festival (May 22 – June 1, 2025) – The legendary “Woodstock of the Mind.” If you’ve never been, just go. Trust me. (More info)
  • 📍 Bradford Literature Festival (June 27 – July 6, 2025) – The most diverse, vibrant, and thought-provoking festival on the list. Books, music, theatre, ideas—this one has everything. (More info)
  • 📍 Cheltenham Literature Festival (October 10–19, 2025) – The OG of literary festivals. Established, respected, and full of heavyweight authors sharing wisdom. (More info)
  • The Brighton Fringe Festival May 2nd – June 1st 2025
  • The Edinburgh Fringe Festival August  
  • London Festival of  Writing  28-29 JUNE 2025
  • The London Book Fair 11 – 13 March 2025 at Olympia London
  • New Writing North online resources 

Spotlight on the South West

Here at Moor Imagination, we’re lucky to call Dartmoor home—a place that’s wild, windswept, and brimming with creative energy. There’s something about the South West that makes it a haven for writers, dreamers, and storytellers. Maybe it’s the rolling moors, the rugged coastline, or the deep history woven into every village and valley. Whatever it is, one thing is certain: this region is bursting with literary talent, and we’re proud to celebrate it.

The South West isn’t just a pretty backdrop—it’s a creative powerhouse. And with so many incredible festivals happening right here, you don’t have to go far to immerse yourself in the literary world. Whether you want to attend a book signing, join a workshop, or just soak up the inspiration of being surrounded by other book lovers, the South West has you covered.

So, don’t just dream about literary adventures—start right here. There are amazing festivals happening on our doorstep. Make the most of the incredible resources around you, meet local authors, and take part in the thriving creative community.

🌊 Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival – A coastal gem of a festival, offering two editions this year (March & September). Expect big-name authors, intimate discussions, and a creative atmosphere that’s as refreshing as the sea air. (More info)

🌊 Bournemouth Writing Festival – A must for writers looking to level up. Whether you’re working on your first novel or your fifteenth, this festival is packed with practical tips, expert insights, and a whole lot of motivation. (More info)

Plan Ahead, Book Your Tickets, and Get Ready to Soak It All In

These festivals fill up fast. Early bird tickets? Gone in a flash. Author events? Sold out before you even finish your morning coffee. So don’t wait—start planning now.

And if money’s tight? Check out the volunteer opportunities. You get to be part of the action and save your pennies.

Writing is about more than just putting words on a page—it’s about stepping into the world of stories, surrounding yourself with people who get it, and giving yourself the space to dream bigger, write better, and fall in love with words all over again.

So pick a festival (or two). Book your tickets. Pack your notebook. And go make 2025 the year you finally say: Yes. I am a writer.

See you there. 💥📖