North Cornwall Book Festival
The Cornish coast is the perfect reading getaway, says Holly Douthwaite
How to get there
The nearest train station is Bodmin Park served by GWR. You will need to take a taxi to the event or two buses. Parking is free, with limited disabled parking available on a first come first served basis.
Accessibility
There are accessible toilets in the Hall and Stone Barn. There is level access to both marquees, St Endellion Hall and the Stone Barn. There is no wheelchair access to the Church through the main door – there is a ramp at the North door.
Where to eat
The Festival Café is an onsite pop-up café offering plenty of options for all requirements.
More information
There is nothing like settling down to read a good book in the comfort of the stunning Cornish countryside, and it’s even better to do so surrounded by likeminded people to gush about your fave series to.
What’s on?
North Cornwall Book Festival boasts an impressive line-up of author talks, workshops, food, and of course a bookshop. Set in the stunning tiny hamlet of St Endellion, this celebration of all kinds of writing from novels to poetry is the perfect excuse to have a bookish getaway and finally get through some of your TBR pile, I know mine keeps getting longer!
Who will be there?
A top pick for an interesting talk is the bestseller, Natalie Haynes. Her recent novel, Stone Blind, features many themes taken from Greek myth and the intricate goddesses she has portrayed.
Another firm favourite will be Tom Holland (no, not Spiderman!), and his incredible retellings of books you may have been forced to study in school. These much more entertaining versions are matched by his entertaining personality which will surely make for an insightful yet comedic talk.
You can also join your favourite authors for a one-to-one workshop if you’re a budding writer. Get some amazing advice from industry professionals about publishing, writing techniques, and anything else you feel you may need help with. The festival is free to enter, though you’ll need to book talks and workshops (for a fee) through the North Cornwall Book Festival website.
What else?
The Festival Café will be open throughout the weekend serving a great range of light meals, snacks, cake, hot and cold drinks and even beers.
The Padstow Bookseller is the official North Cornwall Book Festival seller, hosting signings throughout the weekend and stocking huge numbers of the attending authors books for you to purchase. There will also be a Book Festival Market which will host a range of stalls from local charities, bookish creators, and local companies.
After all this bookish fun, take some time to relax on the North Cornwall coast and catch up on your latest read or maybe start something new that you picked up at the festival?
