Appledore Book Festival returns for 10 days from Friday 17 to Sunday 26 September 2027, bringing world-class authors, speakers and performers to the historic North Devon maritime village. The festival features over 100 events across intimate historic venues including the Meeting House, St Mary’s Hall, Skern Lodge and local pubs and cafes.
Founded in 2006 to save Appledore Library, the festival has grown into one of Devon’s largest cultural events while retaining its community spirit and village charm. Run almost entirely by volunteers, the festival attracts bestselling authors, award-winning poets, historians, scientists and performers who enjoy the relaxed seaside setting and dedicated audiences.
Visitor information
Dates: Friday 17 to Sunday 26 September 2027.
Venues: Events take place across Appledore village in historic buildings and intimate spaces. The main venues are St Mary’s Hall, The Meeting House and Skern Lodge, with additional events in cafes, pubs and outdoor spaces.
Tickets: Individual event tickets and festival passes available. Priority booking for Friends of the Festival opens in July, with general booking from August. Check the official website for the full programme and ticket prices.
Box office: A temporary box office and information desk operates from St Mary’s Hall during the first half of the festival week, then moves to Skern for the second half.
Getting there: Appledore sits on the Taw-Torridge estuary in North Devon, reached via Bideford. Parking can be limited in the village during festival week - consider park-and-ride options or arrive early.
What’s on
The festival programme spans author talks, panel discussions, poetry readings, creative writing workshops, children’s events and live performances. Authors typically appear in intimate settings, with many staying in the village for the duration and available to meet readers in local cafes and pubs.
The festival bunting decorates the village throughout the 10 days, and book lovers can browse pop-up bookstalls, attend signings and explore Appledore’s independent shops and galleries between events. Children’s events run daily, with storytelling, author workshops and creative activities.
Where to stay
Appledore village has limited accommodation, and nearby Bideford, Westward Ho! and Barnstaple offer more options. Browse places to stay in North Devon and book early for festival week.
