The West Cork Literary Festival, a cornerstone of Ireland’s cultural calendar, will take place from 11 to 18 July 2025 in the scenic town of Bantry. This eight-day event, set against the backdrop of Bantry Bay, offers a diverse programme of literary activities for readers, writers, and visitors of all ages.
The 2025 festival features a varied lineup of events, including readings, masterclasses, workshops, interviews, book launches, and panel discussions. Notable authors such as Richard E. Grant, Eimear McBride, Graham Norton, Patricia Forde, Sarah Moss, and Ruth Padel will participate, bringing a mix of international and Irish voices. The programme includes free events for children and young people, such as workshops and readings at St. Brendan’s Hall, aimed at fostering a love of literature among younger audiences.
Visitors can expect a blend of ticketed and free events, with daily readings at Bantry Bookshop and Bantry Library, alongside unique experiences like a Pop Up Gaeltacht, a trip to Whiddy Island, and yoga sessions on the lawn of Bantry House. The festival also offers three-day writing workshops for aspiring writers, covering genres such as novels, short stories, and poetry. A new addition for 2025 is an increased focus on translated literature, alongside showcases for emerging writers. For those seeking a break, a festival swim and social events at the Festival Club provide a relaxed atmosphere.
The town of Bantry enhances the experience with its vibrant Friday market, historic Bantry House, and proximity to the Wild Atlantic Way, offering visitors opportunities to explore local culture, food, and landscapes. The festival’s welcoming environment, ensures accessibility for all, with free admission to many events and priority booking for Festival Friends.
The event was inaugurated in 1995 by West Cork Music and began as a modest series of poetry readings and fringe events alongside the West Cork Chamber Music Festival. It has since grown into a significant literary event, attracting both established and emerging writers. The festival emerged from the vision of Fish Publishing, a local company dedicated to nurturing literary talent, and has evolved under the guidance of West Cork Music’s commitment to cultural excellence.
Eimear O’Herlihy, the current festival director, has been instrumental in shaping its modern identity. Her focus on inclusivity and craft has led to a robust workshop programme and a supportive atmosphere for writers at all stages. O’Herlihy has determined the festival will remain a platform for diverse voices while maintaining its community-driven ethos.
The West Cork Literary Festival continues to draw literature enthusiasts to Bantry, offering a space to engage with the written word in a picturesque setting. The 2025 programme, with its mix of high-profile authors, accessible events, and opportunities for creative development, promises to uphold the festival’s reputation as a key cultural event. Visitors are encouraged to sign up for the festival newsletter for updates on the full lineup, expected in late March or early April.
