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An engine for creative reading and writing

New Writing North is the writing development agency for the North of England.
Based in Newcastle upon Tyne, we have produced nationally significant work since 1996.

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Writing is powerful. It can change the way we explore the world, understand ourselves and connect with one another. Writers craft the stories that shape us.

We bring people together through books and writing. We create opportunities for writers and we find and support talented people from all backgrounds to achieve their creative ambitions.

We build the narrative power of young people and communities throughout the North. We platform the work of those whose voices are missing from the mainstream conversation.

 

Durham Book Festival

Get ready to be challenged, inspired, entertained, and swept away as some of the hottest names in fiction descend on the city, including Helen Fielding, Rebecca F. Kuang, Jodi Picoult, Alan Hollinghurst, Tracy Chevalier, and David Peace.

With over 35 events across three days, delve into history, humour, poetry, and philosophy.

Durham Book Festival takes place 10–13 October at Gala Durham, Clayport Library and Collected Books. Audiences can also join in online. Click on the links below to book, and find out more.

Full programme

Autumn 2024

This autumn, there are so many ways to take part in New Writing North’s programme

Embark upon a wealth of new reading and writing experiences this autumn – whether that’s discovering new authors, sharing your love of reading as a volunteer, joining a writing group, or taking the next move in your professional writing career.

Find listings online: events, groups and activities and current projects.

Download the Autumn 2024 programme (PDF)

Join a vibrant online writing community

Work with industry experts to master new skills and see how far your talent can take you

On New Writing North Academy online courses, you will explore the techniques used by leading contemporary writers, learn to critique work-in-progress, develop your own voice and hone your writing craft.

New Writing North Academy has been created in partnership with the Professional Writing Academy, the industry-leading online course provider whose digital campus is the first platform specifically designed for teaching writing.

New Writing North Academy

Some of our recent highlights

Northern Writers' Awards 2022

Pupils from Kelvin Grove Primary School perform work at Shipley Art Gallery

Colm Tóibín wins David Cohen Prize 2021 and awards Padraig Regan the Clarissa Luard Award

Val McDermid event at Durham Book Festival 2021

Hanif Abdurraqib wins Gordon Burn Prize 2021

A Writing Chance writers' showcase at the Houses of Parliament

Linda France, Climate Writer in Residence

Newcastle Young Writers

Kayo Chingonyi performs at Durham Book Festival 2021