2025 Bournemouth Writing Festival

The Bournemouth Writing Festival is a three-day event that celebrates the written word taking place on Friday 25th, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th April 2025. This festival is a great opportunity for writers and other literary professionals to connect and collaborate. and learn a thing or two about writing!

The festival will feature talks, panel discussions, workshops, literary agent 1-2-1s, writing activities and plenty of networking opportunities. Our goal is to provide a platform for everyone, from beginners to experienced professionals, to share their ideas and learn more about writing and to get their work out into the world.

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Talks, panels, masterclasses and workshops by renowned authors and writers. The festival will once again feature a line-up of authors, poets, journalists, screenwriters and industry experts, offering a range of inspiring talks, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops. From starting out, techniques and tips to enhance your prose, editing, querying and choosing the traditional vs self-publishing route, there is something for every writer to progress their writing and get it out into the world. Find out more here.

Expert 1-2-1s. The chance to pitch your manuscript to literary agents and to get personalised feedback on aspects of your writing from industry professionals in private sessions. Plotting, querying, characterisation, agenting, pacing, editing - an expert will be available to help with your specific needs (price per session to be confirmed).

Inspiration to Write. The festival will host a variety of unique indoor and outdoor activities and events to help stimulate creativity. You’ll never have a blank page with the breadth of writing professionals and ideas at your fingertips.

Networking. The Bournemouth Writing Festival is not only a platform for learning but also an excellent opportunity to connect with local writers, agents, publishers, and other industry professionals. The festival's vibrant atmosphere and funky venues encourage meaningful networking and potential collaborations.

Poetry Hub. Our free Poetry Hub will be housed in the Bandstand where poems and poets are in abundance! For complete beginners to seasoned pros, they will be activities, talks and inspiration-galore to get you writing.

Events for Children. We’re planning activities and events to inspire children to read and write, including workshops, trails and activities designed specifically for children.

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New for 2025. Following feedback, there will be a special chill-out zone at the Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum to help you relax and decompress. Professional writers will be on-hand to guide you through gentle writing exercises if you wish. We also have a new Author Marketplace, where you can meet authors and writing support services.

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The Festival pricing subsidies workshops for marginalised members of our community, including the homeless, children in care and adults with additional needs.

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