Bournemouth Writing Festival

About Us

Inspiring writers to write!

Bournemouth is gearing up to host its first Writing Festival with more than 60 events and activities now released.

A mix of free and paid-for events and activities, involving over 70 experienced writers and professionals, have been designed to foster inspiration, networking and stimulate creativity. From creating credible characters to publishing contracts, writing compelling dialogue to landing an agent, there is something for every budding and seasoned writer to learn.

TV & film screenwriters, best-selling authors, poets, journalists, publicists, writing coaches, editors and publishers will be imparting their advice through talks and practical workshops to improve and progress delegates' writing.

Free activities include "Writing on the Beach" with Richard & Judy winner Christine Aziz (with a giant washing line!) to a Poetry Hunt (organised by Bournemouth Poet Laureate Myriam San Marco). There will be literary walks to get the creative juices flowing plus "genre breakfasts" to help local writers find their writing tribe.

An Open Mic event on Saturday 22nd April, in association with Boscombe-based Doppelganger Dialogues, invites writers to submit their work with the chance of reading their work to an engaged audience. Music artist and performer Timo Peach will close the festival with an unmissable Keynote speech on Sunday evening about the future of words.

The festival will also play host to workshops, activities and readings from children's authors to encourage young minds to get writing.

The Bournemouth Writing Festival takes place on Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd April 2023 in venues in Bournemouth Town Centre. Paid events start from £7. All events have a limited capacity so booking in advance is essential.