New Writing North, based in Newcastle upon Tyne, has unveiled an exciting and diverse range of literary events, workshops, and writing groups for this autumn. This programme aims to support the development of professional skills for writers, encourage reading and writing for pleasure, and promote wellbeing through creativity.

Professional Development Workshops

New Writing North’s autumn programme includes a variety of workshops delivered by industry experts. Aspiring writers can participate in sessions on writing for children and young adults, crime fiction, and foundational fiction. Additionally, there is a mindfulness for creativity workshop designed to help writers harness their creative potential.

Screenwriting Weekender

As part of its efforts to develop screenwriting opportunities in the North, New Writing North will host the Screenwriting Weekender from 31 January to 2 February. Sponsored by North East Screen, this event will feature talks, workshops, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, including agents, production companies, and commissioners. A limited number of early bird tickets are available.

Literary Events with Renowned Authors

This autumn, New Writing North will host a series of literary events at Waterstones Newcastle and Tyneside Cinema. Highlights include talks with Bella Mackie, discussing her new murder mystery “What a Way to Go,” and Louise Doughty, who will be in conversation with Charlotte Vassell about their latest novels. Additionally, a panel will explore climate-themed poetry with poets Graham Akhurst, Yvette Henry Holt, and Linda France.

Durham Book Festival Preview

The Durham Book Festival, produced by New Writing North, returns from 11-13 October. The festival will feature headline authors such as Rebecca F. Kuang, Alan Hollinghurst, Jackie Kay, and Jodi Picoult. The full festival line-up will be announced on 14 August, promising an array of inspiring literary events.

Community-Led Writing Groups and Awards

New Writing North continues to support community-led writing groups across the North-East, offering creative workshops for older residents, drop-in sessions, and a multilingual writing group. The flagship Northern Writers’ Awards, open from 26 November 2024 to 6 February 2025, will include categories for fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and young writers. This year’s programme also features the Hachette Children’s Novel Awards 2025, supporting new writers with a £3000 bursary and a bespoke development programme.

Find Out More

For the full Autumn Season brochure and a complete list of events, visit the New Writing North website: New Writing North Autumn Programme