Wealden Literary Festival began in 2015 with a simple idea: to provide a space where people could slow down, come together, and connect with nature.

What started as a humble gathering in a barn has now blossomed into something extraordinary – a gathering that brings together readers, writers, and wanderers who share our love of wild places and storytelling.

Here, among the ancient woodland, we’ve created something different from the usual literary festival. This isn’t about rushed book signings or crowded auditoriums – it’s about real connections, unexpected conversations, and moments of wonder.

Our authors don’t just come to speak; they come to stay, share meals and conversations. You might find yourself discussing poetry under an old oak tree, learning about local wildlife with your children, or sharing coffee with your favourite writer.

With more than 100 acres to explore, Boldshaves offers space for children to roam freely and everyone to find their own moments of inspiration. Take part in talks, hands-on workshops, and outdoor activities. Our camping area is in a designated Dark Sky Zone providing a breathtaking backdrop for evenings spent sharing stories under the stars.

We want as many people as possible to share in this experience, to find quiet inspiration, and to take home memories and connections that endure long after the festival ends.

Wealden Festival Foundation

The Festival is operated by Wealden Festival Foundation, a registered charity (number 1170588) that seeks to nurture the links between people, nature and creativity.

 In addition to the annual Festival and a year-round series of residential workshops, the Foundation has developed successful outreach programmes with local primary and secondary schools that aim to give younger generations the tools they need to understand and cherish the natural world.

If you are interested in joining our amazing team of staff and volunteers, please contact us at hello@wealdenliteraryfestival.co.uk.

For further information about the Festival or our outreach programmes, contact info@wealdenliteraryfestival.co.uk.

"It is a thrill to see Wealden Literary Festival taking root and flourishing. With its emphasis on the natural world, its commitment to children and to community, and its vision of getting people outdoors and hands-on with nature, as well as reading and talking about it, it strikes me as a hugely hopeful and valuable event. Long may it grow!"

Robert Macfarlane

author of Underland and The Lost Words

"I know of no other festival that’s so enlarging in its discussion of nature, place and literature while being simultaneously intimate and confiding. Big-hearted joy in a beautiful place"

Julian Hoffman

author of Irreplaceable