The Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival returns this autumn, running from Wednesday, 17 September, to Sunday, 21 September, 2025. Set in the picturesque coastal town of Budleigh Salterton in East Devon, the five-day event is one of the most respected literary gatherings in the South West, attracting writers, thinkers, and readers from across the UK.
Tickets for this year’s festival are now available to the general public and can be purchased via the official website.
A Celebration of Words by the Sea
Since its inception, the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival has established a reputation for curating an exceptional programme of events. Each year, the festival brings together acclaimed authors, journalists, poets, historians, and broadcasters to share their insights and engage with audiences in a thoughtful and welcoming setting.
The 2025 programme welcomes a host of both established and debut authors, with a particularly compelling appearance from Patricia Crossley-Hayes, who will be discussing her first novel, Heartbreak Baby. Writing under her birth name, Patricia Cotton, Crossley-Hayes was recently featured in the Exmouth Journal for her powerful and deeply personal story, inspired by her own experience of forced adoption in 1960s London.
The novel explores the emotional fallout of a young woman pressured into giving up her child, shedding light on the enduring trauma faced by many women of that era. Praised for its sensitivity and authenticity, Heartbreak Baby is already drawing attention as an important new voice in contemporary fiction. Crossley-Hayes’s session is expected to be one of the emotional highlights of the festival.
Location and Atmosphere
All events will take place in venues around Budleigh Salterton, with the Public Hall on Station Road serving as the central hub. The town itself provides a fitting backdrop to the literary focus, with its peaceful coastal setting and close-knit community offering a relaxed, reflective environment for visitors and speakers alike.
For those planning a longer stay, the surrounding East Devon countryside and coastline offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. The South West Coast Path, local cafés, and independent shops help round out the experience, making the festival an ideal cultural getaway.
Plan Your Visit
Tickets are available now via www.budlitfest.org.uk. Early booking is recommended, as popular sessions often sell out in advance.
Whether you are an avid reader, a curious thinker, or someone looking to engage with new ideas in a unique setting, the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival offers an exceptional experience.