Free children’s activities and poetry marquee headline Bournemouth Writing Festival return

Free children’s activities, a new poetry marquee and workshops for beginners are some of the highlights of more than 100 writing events will take over Bournemouth town centre this weekend at the Bournemouth Writing Festival.

The three-day festival, which runs from April 24 to 26, is estimated to bring nearly 2,000 writers and authors from across the UK to venues including Pavilion Dance, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Patch, Palace Court Theatre and Horseshoe Common.

Much of the programme is free to attend, including a new Poetry Marquee on Horseshoe Common featuring drop-in sessions and live performances throughout the weekend.

Families can also take part in free children’s writing activities at Patch on Saturday, while beginners are encouraged to try writing for the first time at relaxed drop-in sessions at the Russell-Cotes, including dementia-friendly activities.

Other free highlights include Writing on the Beach and the Writers’ Hive at Patch, where visitors can meet local and emerging authors and attend a series of book launches.

For those looking to develop their writing further, the festival also features a range of ticketed talks, workshops and masterclasses.

New for this year are two masterclasses with afternoon tea at the Russell-Cotes’ refurbished conservatory. Literary agent Saskia Leach will lead a session on creating a standout submission pack, while Dorset author Rachel McLean will share insights on writing commercial fiction, alongside talks from bestselling Dorset authors Lucy Clarke and Heidi Perks.

Friday’s programme is particularly aimed at writers nearing completion of their books, with a special ticket offer available on book marketing sessions.

Evening events include a Friday night social, a live poetry and music performance from Tongue Fu on Saturday, and a Sunday showcase combining spoken word and dance with Arts University Bournemouth.

Festival director Dominic Wong said the aim of the event is to make writing accessible to everyone.

He said: “We want people to feel like writing is for them, whether they’re picking up a pen for the first time or looking to take their work further. There’s a real mix of free activities, expert advice and opportunities to meet other writers, all right here in the town centre.”

Full programme details and booking information can be found at https://www.bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk/ 

Images: Solid Imagery.