Wellington Literary Festival

Sixteen years ago Wellington Town Council formed a working group of literary-minded people who initiated the first week of literary events, headed by Simon Brett the crime writer.
Guiding principles were agreed by the group which were as follows:
• To promote a wide range of literature to all ages.
• To encourage local budding authors/playwrights/poets by providing a platform for their work.
• To be accessible for all
• To work in partnership with all sections of the community.

The Council agreed to give administrative and financial support and that all events should be free of charge unless organised by an outside body.

After time, demand to extend the Festival grew culminating in the current format of three weeks of planned events throughout the month of October.

It has been our great pleasure in previous years to welcome such personalities as: Kate Adie MBE, Martin Bell MBE , Henry Blofeld, Colin Dexter, poet laureate Andrew Motion, Ned Sherrin CBE, The Rt. Hon David Blunkett MP, poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy, George Alagiah, Germaine Greer, Alexie Sayle, Fay Weldon and Ian McMillan. These are all but a few of the well
known authors / artists who have enthralled packed audiences with their literary prowess over the years.

To download the guide, click here

To see all the events online at a glance, try the Wellington Visitor Portal