Tickets now on sale for the 2026 Bournemouth Writing Festival! Masterclasses, agent 121s, talks, walks and much, much more!
See the programme here
Free Community Workshops
Thanks to Arts Council Funding and subsidies from the ticketed talks, workshops and 1-2-1s, we are able to put on free workshops for specific areas of our community, including marginalised and disadvantaged people. We aim to encourage all writers to write, regardless of their age, ability or background.
Writing activities for people with dementia, and their carers
With Tricuro Cares, Bournemouth University and Prama
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In 2026, we'll be holding free workshops in Tricuro Care homes, plus downloadable materials for those that can't leave their homes.
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At the festival, on Sunday 27th April 2026 at the Russell-Cotes Museum, we'll be displaying the resulting works with free drop-in sessions for people with dementia or early on-set.
Plus Prama will be on-hand to answer any questions and to signpost anyone who has questions or concerns about caring or living with some with dementia.
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See our dedicated page for more information.
Wednesday 22nd April 2026
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2pm until 3:30pm
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We Are Humans, 33 Sea Road, Boscombe
Workshop for those experiencing financial difficulties or homelessness
FACILITATED BY ALICE FLYNN AND EMMA SCATTERGOOD IN COLLABORATION WITH WE ARE HUMANS.
Are you curious about creative writing?
Whether you are an experienced writer or not, this uplifting session is for everyone, offering a welcoming and warm space in which you can take time to explore creative writing.
Over a free cup of tea or coffee, we’ll practise different creative writing skills through fun, accessible and interesting ways, taking inspiration from the world around us.
Writing can support well-being.
It helps us express ourselves and to explore ideas and memories transforming thoughts and feelings about the everyday, into something we can share with others, if we want to, or we can keep for ourselves.
No writing experience is necessary and everyone is welcome!
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Limited numbers due to the size of the cafe so please email us at info@BournemouthWritingFestival.co.uk to reserve your place.
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With thanks to Arts Council England.
Friday 24th April 2026
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11am to 1pm
2pm to 4pm
Bournemouth Gateway
Workshop for Adults with Additional Needs
FACILITATED BY KEVIN BALES FROM TRICURO CARE (part of Christchurch Connect)
For the third year running, Tricuro Care will be running free workshops for adults with additional needs. Whether that's Down Syndrome, Autism or need extra help, Kevin will expertly guide you to get writing.
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This year's theme is Coast To Coast.
No writing experience is necessary and everyone is welcome!
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Limited numbers due to the size of the venue so please email us at info@BournemouthWritingFestival.co.uk or call Kevin on 01202 486114 to reserve your place.
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With thanks to Bournemouth Gateway for providing the venue free of charge.
Friday 10th April 2026
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10am to 12pm
Urban Gardens
Workshop for Young Carers
FACILITATED BY BRADFORD GYORI
Using the written word to capture the voice of Young Carers by way of poetry or lyric writing for children up to 12.
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Limited numbers so please email us at info@bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk to reserve your place.
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With thanks to MyTime Carers, Urban Gardens and Arts Council England.