Bournemouth Writing Festival Wins Gold at Dorset Tourism Awards

The Bournemouth Writing Festival has taken home Gold in the ‘Festival / Tourism Event of the Year’ category at the Dorset Tourism Awards 2025 for the second year running, marking another major success story for Bournemouth’s creative community and cultural tourism.

Now in its third year, the festival has become a vibrant fixture on the South Coast’s cultural calendar, delivering around 100 free and ticketed innovative events and activities across three days in venues as well as writing and literary events all year round throughout Bournemouth Town Centre.

From award-winning and best-selling authors to BAFTA-winning screenwriters, journalists, poets, editors, publishers, and marketing experts, the festival attracts a prestigious line-up of contributors who share their expertise through talks and workshops with hundreds of writers.  It also showcases local talent from diverse and underrepresented people, provides writing opportunities and inspiration for children and gives access to writing professionals to those who may not be normal be able to.

Dominic Wong, Festival Director and award-winning author & entrepreneur, said: 

“We are absolutely thrilled to win Gold again at the Dorset Tourism Awards. It’s a huge honour for all the volunteers, facilitators and writers who help make this such a special event. What makes me most proud is how the festival is growing – not only bringing thousands of visitors to Bournemouth, but also running a busy year-round programme of writing events writers to write regardless of their age, background or ability. This award is for everyone who has supported us on the journey so far, including our funders, venues and supporters who make it all possible.” 

The Bournemouth Town Centre BID has been one of the festival’s funders since its inception three years ago, a partnership that stands as a testament to both local entrepreneurship and Bournemouth’s flourishing cultural scene.

“We’re proud to congratulate Dominic and the team on this thoroughly deserved win. The Bournemouth Writing Festival has been transformative for the town centre, highlighting the sectors energy & creativity, and helping to further cement Bournemouth as a thriving hub for culture and the arts. It’s boosted footfall, brought people together, and encouraged visitors to explore and support our fantastic local businesses.” — Martin Davies, Chair, Bournemouth Town Centre BID.

Festival Impact & Highlights:

• 100 Events and Activities over three days
• 18 Town Centre Businesses hosted events
• 60% new attendees to the festival vs last year
• 65% of visitors “more positive” about the Town Centre
• 85% spent ££ during the 3-days
• 1869 Paid tickets
• 903 people attended free events
• 25% came for all three days.

The festival continues to host inspiring events throughout the year, including:
• Robert Louis Stevenson Celebration to mark his 175th birthday at his former home, where Jekyll & Hyde was written
• The Bournemouth Writing Sanctuary at Patch, the festival’s creative take on a writer’s retreat

Dates for the 2026 Bournemouth Writing Festival are confirmed as 24–26 April 2026.

For more information, visit: www.bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk