Frequently Asked Questions

How do I buy tickets?

Tickets for all our events are available through our website, ipswichbookfestival.co.uk but you can also call New Wolsey Theatre box office Monday to Saturday on 01473 295900 if you would prefer to pay over the phone or pop in and pay in person.

Are any events free?

Yes, we have lots of free events over the weekend, including a local authors showcase in the Ancient House on Saturday and Sunday. Events are marked as free on the listing.

Do I need to print tickets?

Not necessarily, your booking confirmation email will be sufficient to enable you to access events.

Can we buy tickets on the day of the event?

Tickets for all events are available to buy online up to an hour before the event starts. We will be able to take tickets on the door at some events but to avoid being disappointed if the event is sold out, we suggest you buy in advance.

Where will my event take place?

Our events are taking place across 14 different venues across Ipswich town centre, and they can all be viewed on our map and you can also find out more about the venue, including the postcode here.

Please note the New Wolsey Theatre are our ticketing partners, there is only one event taking place with them (David Wright and Wolsey Writers, Saturday morning). 

When will doors open?

Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time. A couple of our events have speakers running back-to-back, so we ask for some patience if you arrive and there are still some people inside.

Will latecomers be admitted?

Yes. Please sit on the closest free seat to avoid distracting the audience or speaker.

How long with my event last?

All events are around 45 to 60 minutes unless otherwise stated. We have tried to allow time for people to move between events. At the end of each speaker, there will be time for questions and book signings; you are welcome to leave and move to your next location at this point.

Will there be refreshments?

As most of our venues are in the town centre, we are close to cafes and coffee shops, most of which will be open all weekend. There are cafes within venues, such as The Hold. We are happy for people to bring their own drinks into events.

Where do we park?

There are lots of options available over the weekend and parking is marked on our map or you can use this link https://www.parkopedia.com/

What else can I do whilst I am in town?

Good question! Shopping, walking around our parks or waterfront, eating and drinking at some of our great pubs and restaurants… There is always plenty going on in Ipswich so please take a look at the business listings on https://allaboutipswich.com/ and event listings on https://ipswich.love/.

What do I do if I get lost or need advice?

Our team of volunteers are in red t-shirts so will be easy to spot at venues and events. They will do their best to help you and direct you to where you need to be! Our hub for the weekend is The Ancient House (Butter Market) so pop in for advice and help buying tickets.

What about access for people with limited mobility? 

We have done our best to select venues that have good access for people with limited mobility. Please call the New Wolsey Theatre or email hello@ipswichbookfestival.com if you have any questions about a particular venue.

Are there toilets at every venue?

At most venues there are toilets on site, at others there may be a short walk. Our volunteers will be able to direct you.

Can I change my booking?

Yes, if it is 48 hours before the event. We suggest you call the New Wolsey Theatre ticket office on 01473 295900 to discuss your options. You may of course need to pay the difference in ticket price.

What if I decide to cancel?

Up to 48 hours before an event New Wolsey Theatre will issue a credit to use against a future booking or exchange your tickets to another event at the book festival. Within 48 hours of the event, New Wolsey Theatre will offer to resell your tickets. If they are unable to resell your ticket you will not be refunded. Please note: If New Wolsey Theatre can issue you credit, this will be subject to a £2.50 administration fee per ticket.

What happens if an event is cancelled by the book festival?

We will give you a full refund.