Prize-winning poets and singers, free family events and open mic nights will be found all around Ledbury as the town’s famous poetry festival returns.
The 2023 edition of Ledbury Poetry Festival takes place from today (June 30) to July 9 and promises something for everyone.
The Waterstones Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho performs for all the family tomorrow (Saturday) at 2pm.
And Michael Morpurgo, the author of War Horse and a best-selling children’s favourite, shares his new book about his love of trees on Sunday (July 2) at 4pm.
There are also two free fun days taking place, encouraging families to get involved in the festival.
READ MORE: Michael Morpurgo, Monty Don on Ledbury Poetry Festival line-up
The first is tomorrow (Saturday) in Ledbury Walled Garden (next to the church) between 11am and 3.30pm.
Jeanette McCulloch and Emily Wilkinson will help you create artworks and a Poet-Tree. Importantly, there will be cakes and deckchairs to relax and read in.
A celebration day is happening at St Katharine’s, next to The Master’s House on Sunday, July 9 from 11am to 4pm.
There will be food and drink, live music and poetry performances. Browse the stalls and meet Beth Claverley and her Poetry Machine, which she uses to create unique poems for anyone who wants one.
Chloe Garner, Ledbury Poetry Director said: “Ledbury Poetry Festival has something for everyone!
"And tickets are still available for lots of events, including Atilla the Stockbroker, and the fabulous Diversion Open Mic event.
"The flags are flying and look out for poetry themed shop windows as Ledbury welcomes the world for the biggest celebration of poetry in the UK.”
Mercury Prize-winning folk singer, creator of singing with nightingales and author of The Nightingale, Sam Lee, performs at Ledbury Poetry Festival on Sunday (July 2).
TS Eliot prize-winning poet Joelle Taylor, linguistic risk taker and poetical activist, performs with Jess Silk, likened to a female Billy Bragg on Friday, July 7 - and you can join them if you’re quick as there are open-mic spaces available.
Simon Armitage, the UK’s Poet Laureate, writes lyrics alongside poetry and performs with his band in a great finale to the festival on Sunday, July 9 at Hellens Manor.
For the full line-up and to book tickets, head to www.ledburypoetry.org.uk.
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