Ilkley Literature Festival 2026: These Yorkshire writers are attending the event
From Simon Armitage to Kate Atkinson, there is a famous list of Yorkshire-born creatives performing at Ilkley Literature Festival.
The festival celebrates all forms of literature, from non-fiction to poetry, with workshops, book discussions, and author Q&As. Running from October 2 to October 18, 2026, events are scheduled at various venues across Ilkley, including Ilkley Grammar School and King’s Hall.
These are the famous Yorkshire writers set to make appearances at the Ilkley Literature Festival this year. Book tickets sooner rather than later; many sessions are already sold out.
Joanne Harris
On October 18, Joanne Harris is attending Ilkley Literature Festival to discuss her new novel, Sleepers in the Snow. The Barnsley-born author is already famous for her book Chocolat, which was turned into an Oscar-nominated film. Tickets start at £12.
Simon Armitage
For poetry fans, Simon Armitage will be reading his new verse translation of the epic poem Gilgamesh. Born in Marsden, Simon is one of the most famous Yorkshire – if not British – poets. Tickets start at £17.50, and the event is scheduled for October 17 at the King’s Hall in Ilkley.
Kate Atkinson
The award-winning novelist, Kate Atkinson, is visiting Ilkley on October 9. Set to discuss her latest book, Our Noble Selves, the York-born author has already sold out her in-person event. For those still wanting to listen, there are tickets available to watch online.
Tom Hindle
On October 18, Leeds-born Tom Hindle will be talking at Ilkley Literature Festival. In a joint discussion with crime writer Alys Cummings, Tom will share his thoughts on the “Golden Age” of crime fiction, plus insights into his latest novel, A Killer in Paradise. Tickets start at £12.
Tom Weir
At the Clarke Foley Centre, The Poetry Business is running a reading session on October 11. Born in North Yorkshire, Tom Weir is a highly regarded poet and will be attending to launch his latest collection, Negativity Bias. Tickets start at £12.
Emily Zobel Marshall
Raised in Snowdonia, Emily Zobel Marshall might not be Yorkshire-born, but she is an influential local figure. As a Professor of Postcolonial Literature at Leeds Beckett University, Emily publishes both academic and poetic works. On October 10, she will lead a decolonial poetic practice across Ilkley Moor. Tickets start at £25.