Join Butser Ancient Farm for an unforgettable literary weekend at the first-ever Butser Book Festival. Set for 19th and 20th October 2024, this event brings together book enthusiasts, authors, artists, and families in a historic open-air setting. Against the stunning backdrop of reconstructed ancient buildings, visitors will be immersed in a vibrant mix of readings, music, workshops, and family-friendly activities.
A Literary Event for All Ages
The Butser Book Festival offers an inspiring programme designed to captivate readers, writers, and artists alike. Whether you love historical fiction, folklore, nature writing, or simply enjoy storytelling, this festival offers something for everyone. From insightful talks by bestselling authors to hands-on creative workshops, it’s a weekend packed with inspiration.
Festival Highlights
- Talks by Bestselling Authors: Dive into the world of historical fiction with appearances from renowned writers such as Elodie Harper, Adrian Goldsworthy, and Lucy Holland. Their talks promise to transport audiences through history, offering expert insights into the craft of storytelling.
- Children’s Events and Workshops: Families will find plenty to enjoy with interactive workshops designed especially for young readers. Join bestselling author Caroline Lawrence for a children’s writing workshop inspired by the history of Butser Ancient Farm.
- Creative Writing Workshops: Aspiring writers can enhance their skills with exclusive workshops led by authors like Lucy Holland and Tiffany Francis-Baker, focusing on history and nature in storytelling. Or, engage in a storytelling workshop that forages for inspiration from the surrounding landscape.
- Poetry and Storytelling by the Fire: Enjoy enchanting poetry readings and storytelling sessions in Butser’s atmospheric ancient buildings. Whether you prefer the warmth of the roundhouse hearth or the historic ambiance of the Saxon meadhall, these performances are sure to inspire.
- Crafts, Music, and Games: Beyond literary events, the festival offers a range of creative activities for all ages. Try your hand at crafting, enjoy live music, or participate in folklore-inspired games. There will also be a lino-cutting workshop where you can create a unique bookmark featuring mythical creature designs.
Workshops with Limited Spaces
Pre-booking is recommended for all interactive workshops. These sessions are designed to sharpen your creative skills and help raise funds for Butser Ancient Farm’s experimental archaeology projects. To secure your place, make sure to reserve your spot early and avoid missing out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity.
A Special Venue for Storytelling
Sofie Kitts, the organiser of Butser Book Festival, shared her excitement for the event: “We’re thrilled to host such a diverse range of workshops and talks, all within the stunning ancient surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm. It’s the perfect setting for celebrating historical fiction, folklore, and nature writing, offering visitors a truly immersive literary experience.”
Don’t Miss Out!
This exciting weekend promises to be a celebration of both ancient and modern storytelling, with something for the entire family. Book your tickets now to ensure you don’t miss out on this extraordinary festival. You can purchase tickets, reserve workshops, and explore the full festival programme at www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/butser-book-literary-writing-festival.
