Ilkley Literature Festival 2019

This year's celebration of the written and spoken word features writers, researchers and students from across the University of Leeds.

Through our major partnership with the largest literature festival in the North of England, we’re delighted to be involved in a busy programme of talks, events and activities.

The Ilkley Literature Festival will be opened on 4 October by Poet Laureate and Professor of Poetry Simon Armitage, who will read from his latest collection, Sandettie Light Vessel Automatic.

Poet Laureate and Professor of Poetry Simon Armitage.

Over the following weeks, a range of activities will include: illustrated talks on Leo Tolstoy; guided readings of James Joyce; poetry showcases; workshops in publication, and even an exploration of the prehistory of the British Isles through detailed reconstructions of dinosaurs.

Ilkley Literature Festival creates new opportunities for students — across a broad range of specialisms.

As part of our partnership, we will also be providing our students with unique opportunities to gain hands-on, practical experience of working across the festival.

Sir Alan Langlands, Vice-Chancellor, said: “Ilkley Literature Festival creates new opportunities for students — across a broad range of specialisms — to forge connections with nationally-recognised voices from the world of literature and beyond. Our partnership not only celebrates creative writing; it seeks to support, inspire and amplify our emerging talent and enhance the breadth of possibilities for future writers and performers.”

All University of Leeds students and staff will have access to discounted tickets as part of our relationship.

Tickets for a range of events on campus and beyond go on general sale from 10am on Tuesday 27 August.

A full PDF programme is available at the Ilkley Literature Festival website.