Newark Book Festival 2026
Festival Highlights
Mysteries, Murder and Mayhem
Mysteries, Murder and Mayhem
Join acclaimed authors Michelle Harrison, Sarah Hilary, and Alexandra Benedict for a gripping Friday morning of mysteries, murder and mayhem at Newark Book Festival.
The Gothic Revival
The Gothic Revival
Enjoy a afternoon with authors behind gothic novels, Essie Fox and Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes in The Gothic Revival.
Now we are 10
Now we are 10
Five bestselling authors take to the stage to celebrate a decade of storytelling in Newark Book Festival's Friday afternoon panel, Now we are 10.
Becoming an Independent Author with J.A.C Beardmore
Becoming an Independent Author with J.A.C Beardmore
Learn about becoming an independent author with J.A.C Beardmore, the author of the THUMBverse series, in an interview with Southside Broadcasting's Alex Lewczuk.
The Walking Cure – Annabel Streets
The Walking Cure - Annabel Streets
Discover the restorative power of the natural world with Annabel Streets, "the Queen of Walking", as she talks about her latest book, The Walking Cure.
Battle of the Genres
Battle of the Genres
Join us for the Battle of the Genres! Where four authors go head to head to defend their writing genre. This year, we're bringing together fantasy, gothic horror, contemporary and golden age crime.
Harriet Tyce: Witch Trial
Harriet Tyce: Witch Trial
Spend the afternoon with The Traitors contestant, and bestselling author Harriet Tyce, talking about her latest book Witch Trial.
An evening with Jay McGuiness
An evening with Jay McGuiness
Join us for an evening with Jay McGuiness, best known as a vocalist in the boyband The Wanted, as he discusses his latest fantasy novel, Poison Tides in conversation with The Cult of Coco.
I really want to be a cat
I really want to be a cat
Join Helen Hancocks at Newark Book Festival for a Sunday morning reading and workshop on her latest book, I Really Want To Be A Cat.
Wenallt Star
Wenallt Star
Enjoy a performance that blends spoken text, narration, and live and recorded music by David Lambert in his project, Wenallt Star.
Wildlife & Words
Wildlife & Words
A gentle walk around Newark and a creative writing workshop that blends urban wildlife and words, with local author and facilitator Emma Oldham.
Go All In: Reading for Pleasure
Go All In: Reading for Pleasure
Celebrate the joy and power of reading at this special “Go All In” Year of Reading event, championing reading for pleasure at every stage of life.
Join us at the Book Launch
Author Alex Hawley has written a book filled with interviews from past crime authors who have attended the festival.
This book will be available for sale for £5 at the festival Launch event, the Newark Book Festival Information Desk at Palace Theatre and at our Festival Stall at the Literature Village over the weekend.
All funds raised will go towards keeping Newark Book Festival alive for more years to come! We have a limited edition print run, so this is a unique opportunity to hold a bit of Newark history in your hand.
FESTIVAL MEMBERSHIP
Become a Festival Friend
From as little as £20 a year, you can help support the growth of Newark Book Festival by becoming a festival friend!
Your support creates unforgettable experiences, gives people the opportunity to see and hear from fantastic authors and illustrators, and nurtures the next generation of writers.
Plus, you'll benefit from priority 2026 festival tickets, discounts, early access, VIP areas, gifts and more.
I Know You
10th Birthday Poem by Leanne Moden
CELEBRATE OUR 10th BIRTHDAY WITH US
Read the chapters of each of our 10 marvellous years bringing best-selling, award-winning authors and storytellers to Newark.
Join us for the 10th anniversay event and become a Newark Book Festival volunteer in 2026! Find out how and when to apply here.
As we step into our tenth year, we’re inviting you to donate £10 to help us make this festival the biggest and most inspiring one yet!
Discover Newark Book Festival
With thanks to our key funders & partners
