London Festival of Writing
Want to join us for the London Festival of Writing 2025?
Next year’s festival will be held on 28 & 29 June 2025. To be in with the chance of snatching up an earlybird ticket at a reduced price, register your interest here.
“It’s fair to say that I am a published author today because of the Festival of Writing” – Amanda Berriman
Since 2010, over three hundred writers per year have travelled to The Festival of Writing, which sees writers, literary agents and industry professionals gather from around the world for a weekend of writing workshops from bestselling authors, literary one-to-ones and more. Find out everything the festival has to offer this year by checking out our brochure.
A big “hello” from festival director Becca Day
In June 2025, we’ll be back in London – bigger and better than ever before. With more workshops to choose from, more opportunities for networking, a fabulous gala dinner and a glitzy venue to add the WOW factor that the festival deserves, you’re in for a real treat.
The Location
Our venue is the stunning Leonardo Royal Tower Bridge Hotel, London. While the festival will still be non-residential, the hotel has offered 50 rooms at a reduced rate, so if you’d like to stay on site you’re best to get your booking in nice and early. There are also options such as a Travelodge and Premier Inn that are just across the street from the hotel, making it the perfect easy-to-access location.
Where writing careers are born
“I’m excited BEYOND BELIEF to announce that I am now rep’ed by the wonderful Kiya Evans at the incredible Mushens Entertainment. I first met with Kiya at the Jericho Writers Festival of Writing at the end of last year, and it was a real turning point in my writing and querying journey.”
– Rebecca Lewis Smith
Friday Night Live: The Highlight of the Festival!
This incredible, career-launching competition sees eight finalists take the festival stage to read live in front of a panel of literary agents and their fellow festival attendees.
Congratulations to our 2024 finalists
Eight Friday Night Live finalists read their work to an audience of 300 writers and a panel of six agents in June this year. Our winner, by audience vote, was Kate Sheehan-Finn with ‘Manumission’. Join us in 2025 to be in with a chance to take part in the next competition!
Our Friday Night Live 2024 Shortlist
Though they did not make the finals, our team really loved the work submitted by these 16 writers who we had on our Friday Night Live 2024 shortlist. Congratulations to them.
Our 2024 Friday Night Live Agent Panel
These agents gave every finalist on-the-spot feedback on what’s working for them, and what’s not. As well as the writers on-stage, our audience members gained valuable insight into what agents really think…
Are you a low-income or Black writer?
You could be eligible for a bursary. Take a look at our bursary schemes here.
Festival of Writing Success Stories
Throughout the years we have welcomed hundreds of authors to the Festival of Writing. Festival attendees have gone on to secure representation, get a deal from Big-5 Publishers, or successfully self-publish their books. Will you be next?
2024 Festival Workshops
Take a look up at the incredible and varied line-up of experts who joined us on Saturday for the 2024 festival.
Opening Keynote – The Five Magic Ingredients To Writing A Bestseller
with Vaseem Khan • 9.45-10.30am
- Bio
Vaseem Khan is no stranger to the bestseller lists, having had his first crime novel, The Unexpected Inheritance of Inspector Chopra, selected by the Sunday Times as one of the 40 best crime novels published 2015-2020. Two award-winning series later, and with translations in 17 languages, he was elected the first non-white Chair of the 70-year-old UK Crime Writers Association in 2023, and now he’s here to share his knowledge with the Jericho Writers community.
Making Your Characters Leap Off The Page
with Kerry Fisher • 10.45-12.15am
- Bio
Discover all the tips and tricks to elevate your characters to people so real that readers will mutter, ‘I know someone like that’. This workshop focuses on the nuances of personality and realistic interaction to make your protagonists leap off the page.
Working With Small Publishers
with Alan Kane Fraser • 10.45-12.15am
- Bio
Writers often assume there are two routes to publication: self-publishing or getting an agent. But there is a third way – being published by a small press. We’ll look at whether a small press is right for you, and how to avoid the common pitfalls of submitting and working with them.
The Fantasy of a First Chapter: How To Open Your SFF Novel With A Bang
with Esmie Jikiemi-Pearson • 10.45-12.15am
- Bio
Receive practical advice, with examples, about how to craft first chapters that grip the reader. It will cover methods for weaving in worldbuilding, introducing characters to love (or hate), and of course, convincing people to turn to the next page.
Understanding Genre Conventions
with Philippa East • 2.15-3.15pm
- Bio
Unlock the essential cheat-sheet to planning, writing and editing your next masterpiece with this deep(ish) dive into story genre. Discover the secrets of the core story “types” so that every tale you tell will perfectly satisfy your readers.
Creating Your Self-Publishing Business Plan
with Debbie Young & Troubador Publishing • 2.15-3.15pm
- Bio
Self-publishing is easy. Self-publishing successfully? Not so easy. In this session you’ll work with self-publishing expert Debbie Young and Troubador Publishing to create a plan for your books and your career.
Plot At The Midpoint: How Not To Lose Your Head Halfway Through Your Draft
with Natasha Bell • 2.15-3.15pm
- Bio
The middle of a story is where readers become truly absorbed in the twists and turns of a tale. The middle of writing a story, however, is often where we as authors start to lose the plot. In this session, we’ll explore tools to help reflect on and strengthen our novels at this midway point, examining a variety of narrative theories to ask if our original plan still stacks up.
Self-Edit Your Novel Mini-Course
with Debi Alper • 4.00-5.00pm
- Bio
Buckle in for an exclusive one-hour special of our Self-Edit Your Novel course with course tutor Debi Alper. Debi’s sessions always impress, and many a writer has come away from them with transformed perspectives and upgraded manuscripts.
Resilience & The Writer
with Laura Pearson • 4.00-5.00pm
- Bio
Let me tell you about my journey from despairing failed writer to Kindle number one bestseller in one year. In that time, I don’t think my writing or my submission package improved. So what made the difference? In my opinion, it was all about not giving up.
Perfect Your Query Letter
with Silé Edwards • 4.00-5.00pm
- Bio
Who else is better placed to give you cutting-edge insight into your query letter than a practicing literary agent? In this session, Silé Edwards will live-critique a selection of pre-submitted query letters and offer actionable advice for improvement.
Sunday 30 June Workshops
Take a look up at the incredible and varied line-up of experts who joined us on Sunday for the 2024 festival.
The Writer/Day Job Juggle
with Holly Seddon • 9.45-11.15am
- Bio
An encouraging and open chat about how to find pockets of time to write while juggling work and responsibilities, ways to create creative work opportunities that support your writing, and knowing when (or if!) to make the leap to full time writing.
Write Your Truth: The Joys (and Challenges) of Narrative Non-Fiction
with Uju Asika • 9.45-11.15am
- Bio
Join author Uju Asika for a fun and encouraging workshop on writing from personal experience, including personal essays, blogs, memoir and books. Develop your own hero’s journey and learn to write true stories that read like page-turning fiction.
Assemble Your Author Allies
with Nicky Downes • 9.45-11.15am
- Bio
From the first page, many of us have imposter syndrome. Nicky Downes will talk about how she garnered support at each stage of her publication journey and will provide you with the tools and encouragement to find your own support network of fellow writers and readers.
Writing For Younger Audiences
with Eve Ainsworth • 11.30am-12.30pm
- Bio
In this talk we will focus on how to produce the best books for children in a very competitive landscape. We will look to debunk a few myths, focus on trends, provide some helpful tips and help you to focus on those basic principles needed to produce a fantastic and market-ready book.
Writing Sizzling Sex Scenes
with Beth Miller • 11.30am-12.30pm
- Bio
There’s more to sex in books than Fifty Shades. Most contemporary novels
have at least one sex scene; readers and publishers may even expect them.
This lively workshop will walk you through how to write a good sex scene to
be proud of. Expect giggling, blushing and terrible double-entendres.
Beating Imposter Syndrome & Other Writing Demons
with Zoe Richards • 11.30am-12.30pm
- Bio
Our brain is wired to prove us right – when we tell ourselves we are an imposter, can’t write, are no good, we believe it. In this workshop you will learn some simple techniques to beat the imposter syndrome and other writing demons and help you feel better about your writing.
Designing Your Novel For TV & Film
with Imran Mahmood • 2.00-3.00pm
- Bio
It’s something highly coveted by authors: a TV or film deal. But how can we increase the likelihood that our book will get picked up for an adaptation? Should we be honing our screenwriting skills and adapting our own work for screen?
From Hook To Book
with Natali Simmonds • 2.00-3.00pm
- Bio
No matter how beautifully your book is written, to get the attention of an agent and editor you need to have a commercially viable idea. Author Natali Simmonds explains how to write your book pitch first to increase your chances of selling it.
Ask an Agent Anything
with Kesia Lupo • 2.00-3.00pm
- Bio
You’ve got questions about publishing – who better to answer those questions than a literary agent? Bring your query letter queries, your synopsis struggles and get some insider knowledge from Kesia Lupo from the Bindery Agency.
Facing The Fear
with Debi Alper • 3.45-4.45pm
- Bio
Ever been beset by Doubt Demons? Those evil whispers that tell you that you can’t write and have no hope of anyone ever wanting to read your stories? Even the most successful authors have their own demons. So how do you deal with them and prevent them from paralysing you? In this interactive workshop, we’ll call out the most common fears and come up with strategies to kick them in the teeth.
Bringing The World To Life
with Marve Michael Anson • 3.45-4.45pm
- Bio
Embark on a journey with us as we delve into the enchanting realms of imagination and creativity. We’ll explore how to bring new worlds to life and unravel the secrets behind crafting vibrant and immersive fictional worlds.
Criminally Good: Writing Authentic Policing & Crime Scenarios
with Graham Bartlett • 3.45-4.45pm
- Bio
Starting with a gruesome murder, Graham will take you through the first 24 hours of a homicide enquiry. He’ll talk forensics, fast-track enquiries and the hunt for a killer. Then you’ll learn how to write authentic protagonists, antagonists and their supporting cast as well as plausible police dialogue.
Download the London Festival of Writing 2024 Brochure to discover more about our incredible lineup
What’s included in your ticket?
Workshops with best-selling authors
Meet other writers
Food & drink
Competition entries
Festival of Writing: Where Your Writing Journey Begins
Eleanor Anstruther
Festival Attendee and author of ‘A Perfect Explanation’ (2019)
Planning your festival weekend
Our London Festival of Writing venue, the stunning Leonardo Royal Tower Bridge Hotel, is accessible by major travel networks and within reach of a range of amenities.
Nearby hotels
On-site accommodation is now fully booked but there are numerous options nearby, including: Premier Inn London City (Tower Hill) Hotel, Travelodge London Central Aldgate East, Travelodge London Central Tower Bridge and Tower Suites by Blue Orchid Hotels.
Directions by train
The closest stations are Tower Hill Underground Station, Tower Gateway DLR Station and Fenchurch Street Rail. It’s about a five-ten minute walk from each of these stations to the venue.
Directions by car
There is on-street parking available outside Leonardo Royal
London Tower Bridge (parking meter charges apply).
The nearest car park is the Minories car park located on 1 Shorter street, which has 401 car park spaces. Please telephone 020 7481 3153 for details of current parking charges, or visit
parkopedia.co.uk for more parking locations
Local amenities
Within a five minutes walk of the venue, you can find several small supermarkets including Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Co-op.
There are also plenty of bars, pubs and restaurants in the area – perfect if you’re after a post Friday Night Live (But on a Saturday) drink with your fellow festival-goers.
If there’s anything you need during your time at the festival, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our team members.
Want to make friends before the festival?
First step, join our online community group for festival attendees in Townhouse.
You’ll also be invited to an online ‘genre mixer’ event on Zoom the month before festival to give you the chance to meet your fellow writers, as well as a session with Becca Day, Head of Membership and Festival Director, to answer any questions and quell any pre-festival nerves.
ProWritingAid: Sponsors of the London Festival of Writing 2024
ProWritingAid is the writing and editing companion that helps you bring your stories to life. With detailed analysis and targeted advice, it helps polish your prose, banish mistakes and captivate your reader as you take them on your journey. Wherever you write, ProWritingAid will inspire you to unlock your full potential.
Dabble: Sponsors of the London Festival of Writing 2024
Dabble is the go-to platform for writers aiming to plot expertly, write swiftly, and edit ruthlessly. We keep your work organized and accessible across all devices, online or offline, with always-on autosave for peace of mind. Dabble simplifies your creative process, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your writing.
Troubador Publishing: Sponsors of the London Festival of Writing 2024
Troubador has a proud history of helping authors bring their books to life using our self-publishing services. Our expertise and range of services are unmatched in the self-publishing industry. We provide self-publishing services for authors who are dedicated to publishing quality books alongside a high level of customer service. Our team of experts is on hand to work with our authors to help them achieve their self-publishing goals.
Make Life-long Writing Friends at the Festival
Carolyn, B
Festival Attendee
Frequently asked
questions
Where can I find the terms and conditions of booking?
You can find our full terms and conditions for the Festival here.
Where exactly is the Festival of Writing?
It will be held in London at the Leonardo Royal Tower Bridge Hotel. The address is: Leonardo Royal Tower Bridge Hotel, 45 Prescot Street, London E1 8GP.
Is there parking on-site?
There is on-street parking available outside Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge (parking meter charges apply). The nearest car park is the Minories car park located on 1 Shorter Street E1 8LP, which has 401 car park spaces. Please telephone 020 7481 3153 for details of current parking charges, or visit http://en.parkopedia.co.uk/ for more parking locations.
What public transport can I get there?
The closest stations are Tower Hill Underground Station, Tower Gateway DLR Station and Fenchurch Street Rail. It’s about a five-ten minute walk from each of these stations to the venue.
Can you recommend accommodation nearby?
Please remember, it’s your responsibility to arrange accommodation if needed. We have reserved fifty rooms at the venue for festival delegates at a discounted rate on Saturday, June 29. These rooms are priced at £319 per night (+£20 surcharge for double occupancy). Get in touch for the discount code.
Keep in mind, any accommodation issues should be addressed directly with the hotel, as we are not responsible for any problems.
If you prefer a different hotel, there are numerous options nearby.
When should I plan to arrive at the Festival of Writing 2024?
We always recommend giving yourself plenty of time to arrive in case of any delays. For Saturday arrivals, registration is from 8.30am to 9.30am, with the opening keynote beginning at 9.45am. Registration on Sunday is from 9.00am to 9.30am.
From the hotel main entrance, please follow the signs downstairs to the registration desks (there is a lift for those with accessibility needs). You’ll be greeted by Jericho Writers staff who will issue you a name badge and give you a programme.
Can I arrive late? (for example, my train only arrives in London at 10:00)
Yes, of course, but please arrive at sessions quietly and respectfully.
What can I do with my luggage?
If you are staying at the hotel, you are encouraged to check-in early so that you can drop your luggage in your room. If this is not possible, there will be an un-manned cloakroom that can store your bags until your room is available. If you are staying at a hotel nearby overnight it is ideal to drop off your luggage where you are staying prior to the festival, but again you are welcome to use the un-manned cloakroom if that is not possible. All luggage is left at your own risk and we cannot be held liable for any missing or damaged possessions.
I have access needs. Can these be accommodated?
There is a wheelchair-friendly lift that is designated specifically for festival attendees (general hotel guests are not permitted to use it) and we will be advising all attendees to allow those with accessibility needs to use the lift first.
Leonardo Royal Tower Bridge Hotel is highly experienced at running large, complex events. If you have particular concerns, please mention them when prompted when booking your workshops and sessions. The hotel will be made aware of these in advance and will do their best to accommodate you.
What kind of food is offered over the weekend?
Every day you attend the festival, you will be provided with a two-course buffet lunch, plus teas, coffees and snacks at regular intervals throughout the day. If you are a Saturday or Weekend ticket holder, you will also have a sit-down gala dinner on Saturday evening. You’ll be able to let us know about any dietary requirements when you come to book your sessions. Please note that dietary requirements must be entered by 31 May.
Are the gala dinner and evening drinks on site?
Yes, you don’t need to leave the festival venue to attend the Saturday evening gala dinner or drinks. There will, however, be an hour break in which you are welcome to leave the venue to get changed or freshen up.
Will Friday Night Live happen?
Yes – the only difference is that it’s happening on a Saturday. Entries will be open from 10:00BST on 1 May, and close to submissions 16:00 BST on Friday 14 June. We will email all ticket holders with more information when we open to entries.
I’m only coming on Sunday, can I still enter Friday Night Live?
Unfortunately, only Saturday and Weekend ticket holders can enter Friday Night Live. If you’d like to upgrade from a Sunday ticket to a Weekend ticket, please reach out to us.
What do I need to bring with me?
Something to take notes on, a bottle for water, and perhaps some snacks if you know you need extra sustenance during the day! While the cost of lunch, tea, coffee, snacks and (for Saturday or Weekend ticket holders) the gala dinner are all covered by your ticket, you will need to bring money if you would like to buy anything from the hotel bar through the day.
How do I book an agent one-to-one at the Festival?
One-to-ones are included in your ticket. Weekend ticket holders will receive two sessions, while day ticket holders will receive one. We will email you once the booking system is open (towards the end of March). Please note, once you have chosen your one-to-ones, your choice is final. If a session is greyed out, it is unavailable for booking and you will need to select a different agent and/or time slot.
Can I only book one Festival agent one-to-one session?
It depends on your ticket type. Full weekend ticket holders are entitled to two one-to-one sessions, whereas day tickets entitle you to one session.
How do I make sure I can attend the workshops and mini-courses I’d like to?
We will email you once the booking system is open. You will be able to book your place at workshops and mini-courses at the same time as you book your one-to-one sessions.
Will the talks be recorded?
They will not be – make sure you go to the workshop or mini-course you most want to learn from.
How can I connect with other festival attendees ahead of time?
You can join in the conversation in our Townhouse forum here to plan accommodation and travel, and to chat all things festival! We’re also going to be organising a series of Zoom ‘mixers’, where you’ll be able to meet fellow writers in your genre, and a pre-festival Zoom call where you’ll be able to ask any questions and meet other attendees.
What should I upload for my agent/book doctor session?
For an Agent One-to-One, you will need to upload the first 5000 words of your manuscript, a synopsis, and a query letter as Word (.doc or .docx) documents. We recommend addressing and personalising the query letter to the agent you are speaking to.
For a session with book doctor Natali Simmonds, you will need to upload the first 5000 words of your manuscript, a synopsis, and a cover letter detailing any specific questions you would like Natali to address.
For a session with self-publishing guru Debbie Young, please complete and upload this questionnaire addressing topics such as your writing, online presence and interest in self-publishing. While all of these questions are optional, they will help Debbie to prepare your session. You may also submit a cover letter (in the same document as your questionnaire), a synopsis and the first 5000 words of your manuscript.
For a session with mindset coach Zoe Richards, please upload a cover letter (maximum 1 page) about you, your writing, and what issues you are encountering. You should include in your cover letter one question that you would like to work through during the session (e.g.: how can I create habits that stick, what can I do to overcome my writer’s block, how can I reboot my writing, what can I do about my negative self-talk, or anything else that might help you as a writer).
All documents can be uploaded via your itinerary after you confirm your agent/book doctor session selections. If you are attending the full weekend and have two sessions booked, you will need to upload your files for each of the sessions separately. If you would like to edit your documents, you can reupload them from your itinerary. The deadline for final uploads is Friday 14 June, 4pm BST for all agent and book doctor sessions, though we will be available until 5pm BST to support with any last-minute technical issues.
