Putting Market Harborough
on the literary map
Two local authors, Diana Bretherick and Helen Kennedy, are bringing book lovers and writers together to celebrate storytelling as part of the first Market Harborough Literary Festival in September 2026, with a wide range of author and literary events for adults and children.
Diana set up Harborough Writers Hub in 2023 as an inclusive place where local authors at all stages of their writing journey can share their work and offer mutual support. The membership has grown quickly and includes poets, screenwriters, playwrights, novelists and short story writers. We meet monthly and are still open to new members so if you’re interested do contact us. Diana has taken part in many festivals as both a panellist and moderator.
Helen Kennedy has volunteered at and travelled to many other literary festivals around the country and would like to see Market Harborough on the literary map. The town has a big book loving community with lots of local reading groups, a thriving independent bookshop in Quinns, second hand bookshops Oxfam and Age UK and of course Waterstones on the Square.
The festival is a chance for readers and writers to listen to their favourite authors across a wide range of genres including crime and historical fiction, fantasy as well as poetry and book club fiction. Our aim is to create a community book festival that offers something for everyone.
Explore the venues
All venues are accessible for wheelchair users
Congregational Church Centre
Bowden Lane, Market Harborough, LE16 7JD
Set in the heart of Market Harborough, the beautiful Congregational Church provides a truly inspiring setting for our Writers' Day. Built in 1844, the Grade II listed building is celebrated for its striking architecture, elegant interior and peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect place to learn, create and connect with fellow writers.
Combining historic charm with modern facilities, the venue offers accessible access, toilet facilities and comfortable event spaces designed to encourage conversation, creativity and collaboration.
St Dionysius Church
Standing at the heart of Market Harborough for more than 700 years, St Dionysius Church is one of the town's most iconic landmarks. With its striking medieval tower and spire, beautiful stained glass and light-filled interior, the Grade I listed church provides a truly memorable setting for author talks, discussions and performances.
The church sits beside the Old Grammar School, whose distinctive architecture inspired the Market Harborough Literary Festival logo, making it a fitting home for some of our most celebrated events. Rich in history yet welcoming and accessible, St Dionysius offers modern facilities including step-free access and accessible toilets, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the experience comfortably.
A place where stories have been shared for centuries, St Dionysius continues to bring people together through culture, conversation and community.
Louisa’s Place
4 St Mary's Rd, Market Harborough LE16 7DU
One of Market Harborough's most popular independent venues, Louisa's Place offers a warm, contemporary setting for conversation, creativity and community. Located in the heart of the town, it has become a favourite gathering place for locals and visitors alike, known for its welcoming atmosphere, excellent coffee and relaxed social spaces.
Louisa's Place will host our events on 27th September, providing the perfect backdrop for intimate author talks and lively discussion. Its stylish interiors create an informal setting where audiences can connect with writers, ask questions and share ideas, making every event feel personal and engaging.
Whether you're joining us for our event on the 27th, a book signing or simply a coffee before an event, Louisa's Place is the ideal place to experience the festival in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Get Creative in Market Harborough
Writer’s Hub
The Writers Hub is an informal and welcoming environment for all established and aspiring local writers. Whether you write novels, short stories, poems, plays, screenplays or songs, you will find like minded souls here.
Hosted by published novelist Diana Bretherick we meet at 6:30pm every second Tuesday of the month. We talk about all things writing including trends, competitions, and getting published.
We also provide a forum for you to hear the work of others in the group, or read your own material for feedback. It’s a place to swap ideas and meet fellow writers. We are a friendly group and would love to meet you.
Creative Harborough
The Creative Harborough is an experienced team, who, between them, bring many years of experience in business and project management, marketing, advice, psychology, IT security and creativity - all of which have been well-used in developing the Creative Harborough project!
The Creative Harborough network hosts everything from lively tango parties to gentle classical concerts for babies; fascinating talks on rare first editions to toe-tapping blues nights; and free gigs from our local record label to big-screen Hollywood blockbusters.
Whatever your interest, we’re confident you’ll find something here to delight and inspire you.
Story Centre
The Story Centre Market Harborough is a community arts organisation that uses the power of storytelling to inspire creativity, connect people and celebrate individual voices. Through workshops, performances, film projects, reminiscence groups and creative activities for all ages, they help people share stories, memories and ideas while bringing the local community together.
Local Recommendations
While you’re in Market Harborough for the festival, why not explore a little more of what the town has to offer? From independent cafés and cosy pubs to local shops, galleries and creative businesses, there’s plenty to discover between events.
We’re proud to celebrate not only visiting authors and speakers, but also the brilliant local community that makes Market Harborough so special. Keep an eye out for recommendations, collaborations and featured local artists throughout the festival.
You'll find them perched on the corner of The Square just down the road from Market Harborough's historic Old Grammar School. Enjoy a quiet browse or ask one of their dedicated booksellers for a recommendation.
Waterstones
Quinns Bookshop is Market Harborough’s much loved independent bookshop that can be found tucked away just off the high street.
Established in 1981, Quinns also stock art materials and stationery.
Quinns Bookshop
The Three Swans Hotel is a charming 500 year old coaching inn in the heart of Market Harborough. Blending historic character with modern comfort, it offers stylish bedrooms, a welcoming bar, restaurants and coffee house.
The Three Swans
Milo’s Café is a popular independent café, known for its fresh smoothies, excellent coffee and range of healthy, plant-based options. With a relaxed, quirky atmosphere and a menu featuring everything from avocado toast to vegan breakfasts.
Milo’s Cafe
Two Old Goats
Two Old Goats is an independent Market Harborough café serving fresh, healthy and flavour-packed food made with locally sourced ingredients. The café is known for its friendly atmosphere, seasonal menus and delicious homemade dishes.