Ilkley Literature Festival 2026

The Ilkley Literature Festival is a literature festival held annually in Ilkley, Yorkshire. Inaugurated in 1973 by the poet W. Auden and until 1988 held every two years, the festival is the oldest and largest of its type in the north of England.

Language

English

Genres

general lit

Duration (days)

17

Next edition

2–18 Oct 2026

Author participation

Same pathway

Age policy

The festival includes events for children and young people and a festival fringe.

Language notes

Listed working language: English

Genre notes

Primary focus: general lit

Programme

Attracting many important international literary figures, its two-week programme, starting at the end of September, now features more than 250 events, which take place in a variety of venues in Ilkley and surrounding towns and villages.

Past editions

1971, 1972, 1973, 1988, 2003

Festival site