Manchester Literature Festival

Manchester Literature Festival has grown considerably in size and stature since it debuted back in 2006. Held annually in October, it’s now known as one of the north’s leading festivals for book-lovers.

Many of the biggest names in literature have appeared on its stages over the years including Margaret Atwood, Seamus Heaney, Martin Amis,  Zadie Smith, Armistead Maupin . . . the list is long and impressive.

Add to that thought-leaders such as Angela Davis, Gloria Steinem, and Vivienne Westwood, plus hugely popular commercial fiction writers such as Neil Gaiman and Val McDermid, and you get a sense of the kind of quality it attracts.

There’s also a lively programme of events for children and families including activity days, workshops, shows and storytelling.

Events take place in a variety of venues, mainly in the city centre, with some further afield.

Manchester Literature Festival 2025

The main festival takes place from 11-26 October 2025 and features writers including Mick Herron, Elizabeth Day, Kiran Desai, Irvine Welsh, Sayaka Murata, Zadie Smith (pictured), and many more.

The 40+ events will include intimate ‘in conversation’ evenings, live performances, new commissions, workshops, and fun activities for children and families. Venues include Manchester Art Gallery, the International Anthony Burgess Foundation, Central Library, Contact, HOME and The Lowry.