Something bookish is coming to Lanarkshire...

There’s a new chapter beginning in Lanarkshire — and we’ve been keeping a pretty big secret.

In Spring 2027, Lanarkshire Book Festival will open its doors for the very first time, bringing together readers, writers, artists, families and creatives for a vibrant celebration of books, stories and imagination.

But we don't want to create just another book festival.

We want to create somewhere you can step inside the story.

More Than Rows of Books

Of course, there will be books. Lots of them.

The “I definitely don't need another book” kind of books that somehow still end up coming home with you.

But Lanarkshire Book Festival is being designed as an experience.

Throughout the festival, you'll be able to explore different areas inspired by the stories we love. Lose yourself in Romance, venture into Crime, escape into Fantasy, discover Scottish stories and introduce little readers to a world created especially for them.

Along the way, you'll meet established and independent authors, discover artists and bookish businesses, enjoy live talks and Q&As, take part in workshops and activities, and hopefully find a few new favourite writers.

And yes, there will be plenty of photo opportunities too.

A Festival for the Whole Family

One of the most important things to us is making Lanarkshire Book Festival somewhere everyone feels welcome.

You don't have to know the latest bestseller.

You don't have to read 100 books a year.

And you definitely don't need a perfectly organised bookshelf.

Whether you're an avid reader, an aspiring writer, an artist, someone who hasn't picked up a book in years or a parent trying to encourage a little reader, we want there to be something here for you.

The Festival Starts Before Festival Day

We're also working on something we're particularly excited about — the Festival Passport.

Our vision is to take reading and discovery beyond the festival itself, encouraging children and families to collect stamps through bookish activities and participating locations across Lanarkshire throughout the year.

Their journey will eventually lead them to Lanarkshire Book Festival, where they'll be able to continue collecting, exploring and celebrating everything they've achieved.

Because we don't want this to be about encouraging reading for just one day.

We want to build a bookish community that lasts all year.

Celebrating Our Next Generation of Writers

We're also developing the Lanarkshire Young Writers Programme, creating opportunities for children and young people to put their imaginations onto paper and discover just how exciting writing can be.

And what better place to celebrate their creativity than at a festival filled with writers?

We want young people to walk through those doors and see that stories aren't only something written by people somewhere else.

Their stories matter too.

This Is Only Chapter One…

There is so much still to announce.

Authors.

Activities.

Partners.

Festival experiences.

Opportunities for independent writers and businesses.

And probably a few things we're keeping secret for now.

Over the coming months, we'll be sharing the journey as Lanarkshire Book Festival comes to life and giving you plenty of reasons to get excited for Spring 2027.

So whether you're here for the romance, the murders, the magic, the art, the children's stories — or simply the excuse to buy another book…

Welcome to Lanarkshire Book Festival.

We can't wait to write this chapter with you.

Spring 2027 • Lanarkshire

For readers. For writers. For creatives. For Lanarkshire.