Welcome to the second decade of the Berwick Literary Festival

Founded in 2014, through the enlightened and energetic initiative of Canon Christopher Smith, and supported by a growing team of volunteers, the Festival has gone from strength to strength. Even through the tough days of the Coronavirus lockdown, celebration, education and entertainment have been the watchwords of an increasingly diverse and inclusive programme of local, national and international speakers and performers which has delighted and informed audiences of young and not-so-young.

Now we begin preparations for the 11th Festival, and, as I move into the role of Festival Director, after the inspirational leadership given by Michael Gallico for the past four years, and before him, by Michael Wright, I can only say that the commitment to continuing the development of this high quality and well-regarded festival is absolute. We are committed to our town and our region – on both sides of the border, and to exploring the full depth and richness of the concept of ‘Literary’, to demonstrate that our festival is accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We are also committed to working in partnership with all those who are passionate about Arts and Culture not just for entertainment, but because books and music and art all contribute significantly to our well-being as individuals and as communities.

We have had great support across the board for ten years. The Festival could not happen without our patrons, our sponsors, our brilliant volunteer team and above all, the inhabitants of Berwick-upon-Tweed, North Northumberland and the Scottish Borders who have come out in ever-increasing numbers to enjoy our events. Long may that continue!

Andrew Deuchar, Festival Director