North Cornwall Book Festival Announces Strategic Pause for 2026, with Return Planned for 2027
North Cornwall Book Festival Announces Strategic Pause for 2026, with Return Planned for 2027
The North Cornwall Book Festival (NCBF), one of Cornwall’s longest-running and most established literary events, has announced it will take a strategic “fallow year” in 2026, with plans to return in 2027.
Festival organisers have confirmed that this pause will allow time to develop an ambitious future vision, while ensuring the long-term sustainability and continued excellence of the festival. During 2026, Endelienta Arts will continue to deliver a programme of bespoke events, partnerships, and creative collaborations to maintain momentum and community engagement.
The North Cornwall Book Festival is the flagship annual literary event of Endelienta Arts, the North Cornwall-based arts charity. Established in 2013 by acclaimed author Patrick Gale, the festival has grown over the past 12 years into a highly regarded fixture in the UK’s cultural calendar, held each autumn at St Endellion on Cornwall’s north coast.
Melvyn Roffe MBE, Chair of Endelienta Arts, said:
“We have a brilliant team committed to building on the North Cornwall Book Festival’s special roots and ensuring it thrives in 2027 and beyond. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful volunteers, partners and supporters who have made the festival what it is today.”
Nicola Nuttall, newly appointed CEO and Artistic Director of Endelienta Arts, said:
“The decision to take a fallow year is an important strategic step as we shape the next chapter of the festival. We are committed to building on its reputation for quality, creativity and community, and to returning in 2027 with renewed energy and ambition. In the meantime, we look forward to delivering a range of events and collaborations that continue to celebrate literature and bring people together.”
Since its launch, the North Cornwall Book Festival has brought together writers, readers, schools, and volunteers for a vibrant weekend of literary celebration. Its programmes have featured Booker Prize winners and nominees alongside emerging and local voices, offering audiences access to world-class talent while nurturing new writing through workshops and development opportunities.
Further details about 2026 activities and plans for the festival’s return in 2027 will be announced in due course.