2026 Special Events
BETWEEN THE LINES
Thu 07 May 2026
6:15pm for 7pm start
The Straw Yard, The Barracks, Parade, Berwick-upon-Tweed TD15 1DF
Free event, booking essential. Please book here.
Between the Lines is a live conversation podcast series exploring how writing really happens, recorded in front of an audience at The Straw Yard. Each event invites an author into an honest discussion about the realities of a writing life, followed by audience Q&A.
This edition features novelist Claire Carver, whose debut Still Got It draws on her long connection to Greece. Claire will reflect on her unusual route into a three-book deal, the demands of writing to the famously tight deadlines of the romance genre, and the craft of building interconnected standalone novels. The evening will conclude with a book signing supported by The Book Loft, with the bar open before and after the event.
Thanks to Create Berwick funding, we are delighted to offer free tickets for this event, but places are limited, so booking is essential.
ROOKE: CRIME THRILLER BOOK LAUNCH
Fri 8 May 2026
7:30- 9:00pm
The Straw Yard, The Barracks, Parade, Berwick-upon-Tweed TD15 1DF
Tickets from £10
Join author T.G. Hofman (A.K.A Ben, Berwick's beloved Artistic Director at The Straw Yard!) for the launch of Rooke, a gripping debut crime thriller set between the shadowed streets of Newcastle and the Northumberland coast. Introducing Detective Chief Inspector Alanna Rooke, the novel opens on a case of gangland execution, a missing witness, and a conspiracy that runs deeper than anyone expects.
The evening includes a live reading of the prologue, an in-conversation interview with the author, and an opportunity to have your book signed. A welcoming and atmospheric night for crime fiction readers, with a glass of bubbly on arrival and the chance to hear a compelling new voice in the genre.
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!
SIGN UP HERE to be the first to know when future Cabaret of Words performance and attendee spaces can be booked.
