2026 Special Events

CABARET OF WORDS

Thu 21st May 2026
6:15pm for 7pm start

Free event, booking essential. Book here

Cabaret of Words is a lively spoken word evening curated by the Berwick Writers’ Forum, and part of the year-round programme of the Berwick Literary Festival. Set in the intimate surroundings of The Straw Yard, the Cabaret brings together poets, storytellers and writers to share original work in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Whether you come to perform or to listen, Cabaret of Words offers a chance to experience new writing live, connect with others, and be part of a growing literary community in Berwick.

Tickets continue to be free, but you now have the option to make a small donation (£5 or £10) to support the Berwick Literary Festival.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE!

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DOUGLAS STUART IN CONVERSATION

Wed 28th May 2026
1pm -2 pm

Holy Trinity Church, Berwick-upon-Tweed TD15 1JN

Tickets £15

Berwick Literary Festival is proud to welcome Booker Prize–winning author Douglas Stuart for a special afternoon event. Widely regarded as one of the most important contemporary novelists, Stuart’s debut Shuggie Bain won the 2020 Booker Prize, while Young Mungo became a Sunday Times number-one bestseller. His work is celebrated for its emotional depth and its exploration of class, masculinity, faith and belonging.

In this event, Stuart will discuss his powerful new novel John of John, set on the Isle of Harris. The story follows John-Calum Macleod as he returns home to a close-knit Hebridean community shaped by tradition and faith, and must navigate the complex ties of family, identity and expectation.

In conversation with Berwick-based Dr Karen Aitchison, this event offers a rare opportunity to hear from an internationally acclaimed writer about the craft and themes that define his work. Books will be available on the day, with thanks to The Book Loft, and Douglas Stuart will be signing after the event.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE!