The Edward Thomas Literary Festival 2024 has now passed – thank you for joining us in person or online

Poetry, Prose and Birdsong

Thursday 3 October – Saturday 12 October

The 2024 Literary Festival celebrated the life and work of Edward Thomas, immersing participants in the beauty and power of poetry, with a special focus on the themes of nature and birdsong. Whether you are a long-term lover of poetry and Edward Thomas, or new to the wonderful world of words, there was something for everyone.

Edward Thomas Literary Festival Highlights:

Family Creative Workshops: Fun and engaging activities designed to inspire young poets and their families.

Now All Roads Lead to France – a talk by the poet and author Matthew Hollis.

Poetry Readings and Performances: live readings and performances by renowned poets.

Open Mic Night: An opportunity for individuals to share their own poetry or simply enjoy the creative atmosphere.

Adult Workshops: Expert-led sessions (see below).

Talks and Discussions: Opportunities to engage in thought-provoking conversations about poetry, nature, and Edward Thomas’s influence.

Edward Thomas Literary Festival Participants included:

Michael Longley
Andrew Motion
Alice Oswald
Jess Mookherjee
Matthew Hollis
Seán Street
Timothy Ades
Yvonne Reddick
Ellora Sutton
Sarah Doyle
Edna Longley
Zaffar Kunial
Guy Cuthbertson
Isobel Dixon
Douglas Robertson
Alesha Racine (ETF Poetry Competition winner)
Cat Mehta (ETF Poetry Competition prize winner)
Members of the Robert Frost Society and the Edward Thomas Fellowship in a round-table (across the pond) discussion –

Some of the events were online and the talks were also recorded. Access to these recordings will be available for a limited period to members of the Edward Thomas Fellowship, Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery and The Robert Frost Society. If you are a member of either of these organisations please keep a look out for an email message with further details and the links/