Buxton for Books: A New Three Day Festival Celebrating Stories, Creativity and Community
Added by Love Business East Midlands | 27 May 2026
Buxton will come alive with stories, creativity and community spirit this summer as Buxton for Books launches from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 June 2026.
Free, drop-in festival across Buxton
Evolving from previous literary celebrations in the town and now relaunched with a new name and expanded vision, this free, three‑day festival celebrates the rich writing, reading and storytelling culture of Buxton, the High Peak and North Derbyshire.
Designed for all ages, the festival invites families, schools, readers, writers and cultural visitors to explore a lively programme of activities across the town. From school workshops and hands‑on family sessions to author talks, performances, readings and community participation, Buxton for Books offers something for everyone.
At its heart, the festival champions the books and voices rooted in our region. It shines a spotlight on local and regional writers — established and emerging — while encouraging people of all ages to discover, share and enjoy the stories that shape our sense of place. Alongside visiting authors, the programme celebrates the creativity and talent found throughout our communities.
A message from the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust
Louise Brookes, Head of Education & Engagement at Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust, said:
“Buxton for Books is a joyful celebration of the stories, voices and creativity that make our region so special. We want everyone — from schoolchildren discovering new authors for the first time to lifelong readers — to feel welcome, inspired and part of something shared. This festival is about community, imagination and the simple pleasure of enjoying books together. We can’t wait to welcome people across the weekend.”
Friday 12 June: Schools Day – Creative Workshops for Young Readers
The festival opens with a dedicated Schools Day on Friday 12 June, inviting schools from across the region to take part in a series of creative, book‑themed workshops.
- Cost: £2 per child
- Schools are free to choose whichever workshops best suit their class
- All sessions are designed to be inspiring, fun and accessible for all ages
- Once schools select their preferred activities, the Buxton for Books team will organise the rest
Workshops include storytelling, creative writing, illustration, book‑craft activities and interactive sessions led by local authors and educators.
Schools wishing to take part can contact: learn@buxtoncrescenttrust.org
Festival Highlights Across the Weekend
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including:
- Author talks & readings
- Creative writing workshops
- Book‑themed crafts
- Independent book stalls
- Opportunities to meet local writers
- Drop‑in family activities
A full day‑by‑day programme is available now to download from the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust website. Visit: https://buxtoncrescentexperience.com/tour/buxtonforbooks
Special Events during the 3 day programme
“Intriguing Buxton Residents and Visitors” – Friday 12 June
Local historian Julian Cohen will present an engaging talk on the remarkable residents and visitors featured in his new book, Intriguing Buxton Residents & Visitors. Spanning stories from 1716 to the 1980s, the event reveals fascinating lives — some familiar, others wonderfully unexpected. This free, pre‑bookable session takes place in the Pump Room from 6.30pm-7.30pm, with copies of the book available to purchase.
Buxton Book Hunt – Saturday 13 June
In partnership with High Peak Comps, a town‑wide book hunt will take place. A selection of books will be hidden across Buxton, each containing a voucher for Scrivener’s Books & Bookbinding or Book Folk, two of the town’s much‑loved independent bookshops. Finders keep the book — and the voucher inside. Two books will include exclusive High Peak Comps prizes, with additional mystery treats hidden throughout the town.
Furoshiki Book‑Wrapping Workshop – Sunday 14 June
Visitors can discover the beautiful Japanese art of furoshiki wrapping in a relaxed, drop‑in workshop from 1pm to 3pm. Using recycled fabrics, participants will learn simple folding and wrapping techniques to create their own reusable book cover. No experience needed — just curiosity and a love of sustainable craft.
Spoken Word Open Mic Night – Sunday 14 June
The festival concludes with a Spoken Word Open Mic Night in the Pump Room from 7pm–9pm. Hosted by members of the Buxton Spoken Word Group, the evening offers a relaxed, welcoming space for poetry, stories and performance. The bar will be open, entry is free, and everyone — from seasoned performers to first‑timers — is warmly invited.
A Festival for the Whole Town
Throughout the weekend, visitors are encouraged to explore Buxton’s charming bookshops and quiet reading spots — with more than 18 locations to discover across the town.
Friendly, inclusive and inspiring, Buxton for Books aims to build strong awareness across Buxton, the High Peak and wider Derbyshire, positioning the festival as a key date in the region’s cultural calendar. Most events are free, with optional donations supporting the charitable work of the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust, helping protect, celebrate and share the heritage of this remarkable place.
Find Out More
Festival information, programme and details of all the authors participating:
https://buxtoncrescentexperience.com/tour/buxtonforbooks/
Follow updates on social media:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BuxtonCrescentHeritageExperiences
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buxtoncrescentheritagetrust/
