Does poetry fascinate you or do you have an undying love for literature? If yes, then you would love to know that the London Literature Festival is back for its 16th year at Southbank Centre, bigger and better than ever! Be a part of this year’s festival as it puts poetry front and centre, with a celebration of ‘Spoken Word’ and gala events to mark 70 years of the National Poetry Library. Yes, you read that right. So, book your stay at the luxurious Park Avenue Hyde Park and witness the best of this thrilling festival near you!
About the Festival
The London Literature Festival from 18th to 29th October will feature a precession of household literary names along with the Black British Book Festival’s comeback under its roof for the first time. Featuring appearances from literary icons like Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Gary Younge, and Oti Mabuse, it doesn’t get better than this! See shining new talent, hear from your favourite authors and enjoy an array of spectacular free events on offer across the site, moments away from your ideally located hotel near Paddington Station.
Spoken Word Celebration
The London Literature Festival this year will be an alluring celebration of spoken word and poetry! The festival will open with a night curated by George the Poet, who will be joined by several musicians and artists making waves in London’s spoken word scene. Bringing to life the anthology Part of a Story That Started Before Me, take a poetical journey through Black British history for an experience to remember. Prep yourself with a hearty breakfast at Park Hotel restaurant as the festival will also feature a monthly poetry and live music night called Out-Spoken, hosted by TS Eliot prize-winner Joelle Taylor.
Stars of Stage and Screen
Who hasn’t dreamt of seeing their favourite artists live, on stage? The London Literature Festival will feature several memoirs from stars of stage and screen this year. Kerry Washington, a trailblazing actor, director, producer, and activist, will discuss the wisdom she has gained from her career with Edward Enninful at an exclusive event.
Jada Pinkett Smith will share her journey from a challenging childhood in Baltimore to her controversial life in Hollywood in her memoir ‘Worthy.’ Also, Patrick Stewart, a venerated actor, will present his long-awaited memoir ‘Making It So’ (an already sold-out event.)
The best part is that with your accommodation near Hyde Park, you’ll be just a skip and hop away from taking your pick of some of the most fascinating reads, at the London Literature Festival.
Free Events, Talks and More
The goal of the London Literature Festival is to make art more accessible to as many people as possible, and this year’s festival will feature several free events, that you’re sure to love, including:
- A live recording of Open Book; A popular BBC Radio 4 show.
- Stress Test, a challenge to write a poem or song in just 15
- The National Poetry Library Open Day with performances from spoken word poets and an opportunity to explore the library’s remarkable collection!
In fact, there’ll be several immersive events for young children at the festival as well. So, make your bookings now and enjoy your time in London!
