Ready to get lost in a world of words? 📚
2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for bookworms across the UK! With many literary festivals taking place nationwide, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned reader or just starting your literary journey.
From poetry slams to author Q&As, book festivals offer a unique blend of entertainment, education and inspiration. So, mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling with the best literature festivals in the UK. Let’s dive in!
1. Hay Festival Hay-on-Wye
22nd May – 1st June 2025
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Probably one of BookTok’s most famous literature festivals, Hay Festival is the ultimate celebration of books. Situated in the charming town of Hay-on-Wye, this lovely Welsh town transforms into a literary wonderland each May, attracting writers, readers and creative thinkers from all over the world.
With a packed program of talks, debates, workshops and performances, there’s something for everyone. Hear from your favourite authors, discover new voices in the literary space and engage in stimulating conversations about the big issues of our time. And when you’re not soaking up the atmosphere, you can explore the beautiful Welsh countryside or wander through the charming streets of Hay-on-Wye, a town known for its many independent bookshops.
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2. Edinburgh International Book Festival
10th – 25th August 2025
The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a literary extravaganza that takes place in the heart of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Nestled amongst the cobbled streets and historic buildings of Scotland’s capital, the Edinburgh International Book Festival is a feast for the senses, offering a unique blend of culture, creativity and academic stimulation.
With its stunning backdrop of medieval architecture and rolling mountains, Edinburgh provides the perfect setting for a literary festival. The festival itself is a vibrant celebration of books, ideas and storytelling, featuring a diverse range of events including author talks, panel discussions, poetry readings and workshops. If you’re curious about the written word, there’s something for everyone at the Edinburgh International Book Festival.
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3. Queen’s Park Book Festival
30th & 31st August 2025
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Queen’s Park Book Festival is a literary gem nestled in northwest London. This annual book festival transforms Queen’s Park into a haven for literature lovers, with a vibrant atmosphere that feels more like a village fete.
The festival is known for boasting a diverse lineup of authors, past author attendants include bestselling novelist Zadie Smith as well as award-winning authors, Robert Harris, Andrew O’Hagan, Elif Shafak, Tessa Hadley, John Lanchester and Guy Gunaratne. Plus, explore the works of new and emerging talents or discover a range of free activities and pop-up bookshops and browse through a selection of literary treasures. With its inviting atmosphere, diverse programming, and commitment to fostering a love of reading, Queen’s Park Book Festival is a must-visit for any bookworm in the UK.
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Be sure to check out the capital’s fascinating literature scene with our book-lovers guide to London here.
4. Henley Literary Festival
4th – 12th October 2025
Henley Literary Festival is a delightful literary celebration held in the picturesque town of Henley-on-Thames. This festival offers a unique blend of literary excellence and elegant riverside charm. With a focus on engaging and thought-provoking discussions, the festival attracts a diverse range of authors, from acclaimed novelists to insightful historians.
Beyond the main stage events, the Henley Literary Festival offers a variety of fringe events, including book signings, workshops and literary lunches. The festival’s stunning riverside setting provides the perfect backdrop for these must-visit bookish events.
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5. London Literature Festival
Autumn 2025
The London Literature Festival is a literary extravaganza held at the iconic Southbank Centre. Bringing together some of the world’s most celebrated authors and thought leaders, the London Literature Festival offers a diverse range of events catering to all book tastes.
With a diverse lineup of events, showcasing a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama. You can hear from renowned authors examining their latest works, participate in interactive workshops or simply enjoy the captivating discussions. With its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to exploring the power of the written word, the London Literature Festival is a must-visit in Autumn 2025.
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6. Cheltenham Literature Festival
10th October – 19th October 2025
Cheltenham Literature Festival is a renowned festival attracting a jam-packed lineup of writers, thinkers and performers for 9 days of literary exploration. Situated in the scenic town of Cheltenham, this book festival features everyone from Nobel Prize winners to newly published voices.
Cheltenham Literature Festival offers a packed line-up of events, including author signings, workshops and evening book parties. You can also explore Cheltenham itself, with its elegant Georgian architecture, unique bookshops and cosy coffee spots.
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7. Hay Festival Winter Weekend
Winter 2025
Hay Festival Winter Weekend is a cosy literary retreat bringing together a stellar lineup of writers and thinkers to Hay-on-Wye. This winter wonderland of words offers a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling before Hay Festival’s spring festival.
From intimate author Q&As to thought-provoking debates, the festival’s diverse program caters to all literary tastes. Whether you’re a fan of fiction, non-fiction, poetry or drama, you’ll find something to inspire and entertain you. And with the charming Welsh countryside as a backdrop, Hay Festival Winter Weekend offers a truly unforgettable experience.
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8. Cambridge Literary Festival
Winter 2025
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