Our Story

Four book lovers, four business owners passionate about Ipswich. We were inspired by the power of the humble book, opening doors to new worlds, fresh ideas, and unforgettable stories. The first Ipswich Book Festival celebrates the power of beginnings. Every story begins somewhere . Every writer starts with a blank page . Every reader has that one book that sparked a lifelong love of reading. Ipswich Book Festival invites you to it’s Chapter one.

Our Vision

Our Vision is to establish the Ipswich Book Festival as a vibrant, inclusive, and imaginative literary event that attracts authors, readers, and book lovers from near and far. We aim to ignite a passion for reading and storytelling, inspiring future generations to embrace the beauty of books and the transformative power of the written word. Each year it evolves, bringing fresh energy, new voices , and innovative ways to connect people through the power of literature. Like a kaleidoscope, it never looks the same twice.

Why Ipswich

Ipswich with its rich history, cultural heritage, is the setting for our book festival. Its streets, landmarks, and stories shape the festival’s identity, transforming local details into a vibrant literary celebration. Inspired by the town itself, the festival blends tradition and creativity, encouraging a community where authors, readers, and book lovers connect. Through books, Ipswich becomes more than a place, it becomes a story in itself, ever evolving , just like the festival itself. The Ipswich Book Festival will be held in multiple , accessible venues around the town, giving our visitors a chance to explore Ipswich.