Fishbourne Literary Festival FAQ
What is the Garden Literary Festival & Show?
The Garden Literary Festival & Show is a one-day event celebrating literature and gardens in the charming village of Fishbourne, West Sussex. It features talks by acclaimed authors, engaging panel discussions. Beyond its literary offerings, the festival plays a crucial role in fundraising for St Peter and St Mary Church and supporting a different local charity each year.
The inclusion of guest speakers engaging with the audience and answering questions adds another layer of interactivity to the literary festival. The unique church setting makes an intimate space for each session.
The combination of literature and the serene ambience of the historic and cultural church creates a richly memorable and contemplative place for the talks and Q&A sessions.
As you listen to the insights and stories shared by the authors, you’ll have an opportunity to personally connect with the speakers at the Q&A sessions. This format fosters a dynamic exchange between creators and audience, making the literary festival not just a passive experience but an engaging and participatory one.
When and where will the 2025 Garden Literary Festival & Show be held?
Mark your calendars for Saturday, 9th August 2025! The festival will be held at St Peter and St Mary Church in Fishbourne. The church offers a unique, intimate atmosphere for our literary gathering.
How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets for the 2025 festival are on sale now, priced at £25 per person. You can purchase tickets by clicking here or by subscribing to our mailing list for announcements and event news.
What does the festival programme include?
Prepare to be immersed in a day filled with literary delights! The festival offers a curated programme of author talks, thought-provoking panel discussions, and a dedicated bookshop where you can purchase books by featured authors and get them signed.
Can I buy books at the festival?
Kate’s Bookshop is open all day in the church hall, where authors sign books after their talk – a seamless and convenient experience for everyone. The option to purchase and get books signed adds a personal touch, allowing literature enthusiasts to take home a piece of the festival.
And what better way to complement the literary experience than with a cuppa from the café! Encouraging attendees to grab a cup of coffee or tea from the café while perusing books or waiting for a book signing adds a cozy and social element to the festival. It creates a relaxed atmosphere where people can engage in conversations, share their thoughts about the talks, and simply enjoy the literary ambience.
What are the seating arrangements?
To ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all attendees, we have a seating policy in place. While you are welcome to leave personal belongings in the pews located along the sides of the church, please be aware that reserving seats in the central pews with belongings is not permitted. Any items left in the central pews will be respectfully moved to the back of the church for safekeeping during breaks.
Are there food and drink options available?
Yes, indeed! Karen’s café is a delightful addition to the literary festival, offering a range of tempting treats to enjoy. There is a menu of freshly made rolls, delicious homemade cakes, and beverages.
Whether you prefer the ease of tapping your card or paying by cash Karen’s Café takes both.
The freshly made rolls suggest a savoury option for those looking for a more substantial snack or a quick bite between literary sessions. Meanwhile, delicious homemade cakes provide a treat for those with a sweet tooth.
The café not only serves as a place to grab a bite but also becomes a social hub where you can relax, chat, and savour the culinary offerings.
How can I get to the festival?
Fishbourne is easily accessible by various means of transport:
- Car: Free parking is available on-site, but spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Overflow parking can be found at the Woolpack Inn, conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from the church.
- Bus: A bus stop situated near the church offers convenient access for those travelling by public transport.
- Train: Fishbourne train station is within a pleasant 15-minute walk from the venue. Alternatively, you can reach Chichester train station, which is a short taxi ride away from the village.
Is the festival accessible?
We are committed to making the festival accessible to all. If you have specific access requirements, please don’t hesitate to contact the festival committee in advance. We will be happy to discuss your needs and do our best to accommodate them, ensuring everyone can fully participate in this wonderful literary celebration.
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