Top writers headline Alnwick Story Fest 2025
Tickets released today—quick book today! (Last year some events sold out in 6 minutes!)
Prepare to be inspired, entertained, and delighted as the Alnwick Story Fest returns for a magical weekend from 28th February to 2nd March 2025.
Set in the heart of Northumberland, this unmissable festival celebrates the power of storytelling with a star-studded lineup of authors, poets, illustrators, and creatives.
Headlining this year’s festival are LJ Ross, Adele Parks, Alexander McCall Smith, and Oliver Burkeman and Mari Hannah alongside an array of talented storytellers who will ignite your imagination.
With events for all ages, from workshops for budding young creatives to insightful talks by bestselling authors, the Alnwick Story Fest promises something for everyone – all across town from Alnwick Playhouse and Barter Books to Bailiffgate Museum and Alnwick Gardens.
Plus a vibrant fringe offering with a ‘live museum’, live music and a chance to meet local authors in the market place every afternoon and evening.
Don’t miss it!
BOOK YOUR TICKETS
HEADLINE EVENTS
LJ Ross: The Story Behind the Stories
Join internationally bestselling author LJ Ross as she shares her journey from a legal career to becoming the creative force behind the beloved DCI Ryan series. With over 10 million books sold worldwide and her stories brought to life as Audible Originals, this is a rare opportunity to hear firsthand how she crafts her gripping Northumberland-inspired thrillers.
Adele Parks, MBE: Secrets, Lies, and Bestsellers
Bestselling author Adele Parks, whose novels have captivated millions of readers globally, discusses the themes of love, betrayal, and resilience that underpin her work.
Sir Alexander McCall Smith: A Life of Stories
The beloved author of The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series brings his signature charm and wit to Alnwick. Alexander McCall Smith reflects on his prolific career, his unforgettable characters, and his passion for storytelling.
Oliver Burkeman: Time Well Spent
Join acclaimed journalist and author Oliver Burkeman as he explores themes from his bestselling book Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. In a world obsessed with productivity, Oliver’s thought-provoking insights will inspire you to rethink your relationship with time and focus on what truly matters.
Mari Hannah: Crime, Creativity, and the Craft of Storytelling
Step into the mind of award-winning crime novelist Mari Hannah, the creative powerhouse behind the Kate Daniels series and the gripping Stone and Oliver novels. With her sharp storytelling and ability to bring characters to life, Mari has earned accolades such as the Dagger in the Library and a loyal following of readers.
Lucy Adlington: The Dressmakers of Auschwitz.
Join New York Times bestselling author and historian Lucy Adlington as she shares the powerful, true story of The Dressmakers of Auschwitz. In this extraordinary talk, Lucy reveals how twenty-five young Jewish women and girls survived the horrors of Auschwitz-Birkenau by using their sewing skills to create beautiful garments for elite Nazi women.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY HIGHLIGHTS
Whale Tales and Mermaid Tails: Dive into Storytelling with Gillian O’Mara
Illustrator and storyteller Gillian O’Mara invites families to a sea-themed workshop brimming with creativity. From crafting paper puppets to improvising your own show, this interactive session is perfect for budding storytellers of all ages. The event also includes a reading of The Night Whale, illustrated by Gillian for Walker Books.
Mermaids, Monsters, and Superheroes: Mythical Adventures with Xanthe Gresham Knight
Embark on a thrilling storytelling journey with internationally celebrated storyteller Xanthe Gresham Knight, author of Goddesses and Heroines: Women of Myth and Legend. Through her vibrant, interactive performance, Xanthe breathes new life into ancient myths, bringing a parade of fearless goddesses, legendary heroines, and mythical creatures to the stage.
MORE AUTHOR EVENTS
Jake Morris-Campbell: Dive into the soul of Northumbria with his poetic exploration, Between the Salt and the Ash.
Anna Hedworth: Celebrate food and community with the chef-author of In Service.
Claire Malcolm & Rachel Cooke: Discover the power of friendship in The Virago Book of Friendship.
Juliet Thomas: Unlock your creativity with insights from Creative by Nature.
Emma Simpson: an inspiring author whose book Breaking Waves explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of the sea.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS
The Alnwick Story Fest is the perfect way to brighten the winter months, with events designed to spark your imagination and connect you with like-minded story lovers.
Visit www.alnwickstoryfest.com to explore the full program and secure your tickets today.
Let the magic of stories light up your life this February!
