Do Lions Hate Haircuts: Storytime and Craft session
2025-07-11 09:30 - 10:30 UTC | Newark Library Children’s Area, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW
Join children’s author Bethany Walker for a lively and laughter-filled morning inspired by her hilarious picture book, Do Lions Hate Haircuts? This fun and interactive event is perfect for little ones who love stories, silliness, and getting crafty!
Meet Leonard the Lion—an impeccably groomed feline with very strong opinions about his hair. In this engaging storytelling session, Bethany will bring Leonard’s tale to life, complete with audience interaction and plenty of giggles. Find out why Leonard is so fussy about his mane, and what happens when things go a little… wild at the hair salon!
After the story, get creative with a roaringly fun craft activity. Kids will design and collage their very own fabulous hairstyle for Leonard—will it be curly, spiky, stripy, rainbow-coloured, or something entirely unexpected? All materials will be provided, and children are encouraged to bring their imagination (and maybe a bit of sparkle too!).
Beautifully illustrated by Steph Laberis, Do Lions Hate Haircuts? is a joyful celebration of self-expression and the power of being yourself—perfect for children aged 3–7 and their grown-ups.
Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment. We can’t wait to see your wild and wonderful lion styles!

Deadly Secrets and Dystopian Fears
2025-07-11 10:15 - 11:15 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Expect simmering tension, shocking revelations, and razor-sharp social commentary as two of Orenda Books’ most gripping voices in crime and speculative fiction—Eva Björg Ægisdóttir and Eve Smith—sit down with interviewer Dr Tim Rideout for a chillingly compelling conversation.
With over a million copies sold worldwide, Eva Björg Ægisdóttir has been hailed as the Queen of Icelandic Suspense. Her latest standalone novel, Home Before Dark, is a haunting psychological thriller where long-buried secrets claw their way into the light. Set in 1960s Iceland, the story unravels the consequences of a teenage girl’s deception—one that sets in motion a dangerous chain of events where no one is truly safe.
Eve Smith, master of dystopian thrillers, introduces The Cure—a heart-pounding, speculative tale set in a near-future world obsessed with reversing ageing. When a scientific breakthrough is hijacked, society spirals into chaos, forcing one woman to risk everything to hide a discovery that could alter humanity forever. Eve’s work is known for its eerie plausibility, weaving real-world science with a terrifying glimpse of what could come next.
Both authors will discuss their writing processes, the dark themes they explore, and how their novels reflect the moral and societal dilemmas of our time. Expect a thought-provoking, edge-of-your-seat conversation that blurs the lines between crime, psychological thriller, and dystopian fiction.

Bookbench Storytime: Shimmer & Shine Bench
2025-07-11 11:00 - 12:00 | Newark Art Gallery, 42A Kirk Gate, Newark, NG24 1AB, United Kingdom
Meet local Newark-based author Emma Oldham at the Shimmer and Shine Bookbench by artist Carla Dee inside Newark Art Gallery for a storytelling session of The Whale Who Disappeared.
Perfect for ages 2-6 years.
No need to book just turn up and enjoy!

Island Spirit
2025-07-11 11:30 - 12:30 | Newark Library Meeting Room, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW, United Kingdom
Join Derby-based songwriting duo –vocalist Nina Blaszczyk and guitarist Phil Baggaley—for a spellbinding musical performance of their latest project, Island Spirit.
Known for their soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Nina and Phil combine fresh vocal emotion with seasoned musical craft to create a unique and moving live experience.
Island Spirit, based on a story by Tim Harvey, follows a young Polish woman who travels to a remote Scottish island in search of her roots. Taking a job at a local whisky distillery, she begins to unravel the story of her mother—and discovers secrets about the father she never knew. Told through original songs and narrative, the show explores themes of family, belonging, identity, and the powerful pull of the past.
This special Edinburgh Fringe preview offers an intimate first look at the musical’s stunning blend of storytelling and song. Between the evocative lyrics and rich acoustic sound, listeners are transported to windswept coastlines, hidden histories, and emotional revelations. With musical influences drawn from Scottish folk traditions, Island Spirit is both grounded in place and universal in feeling.
Returning to Newark Book Festival, Beyond the Blue present a deeply human story with haunting melodies and lyrical beauty. A must-see for fans of folk, acoustic music, and poignant tales well told.

CAT Dungeons and Dragons Workshop
2025-07-11 13:30 - 16:00 | Newark Library Meeting Room, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW, United Kingdom
Join Game Master Lawrence Mahon and facilitator Via Macnab for a Dungeons & Dragons adventure, a Creativity Autistic Together event. Create characters, tell your story, and shape your destiny in a fun, neuro-inclusive, and imaginative workshop. Roll the dice and see where your choices take you!
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the game, you’ll have the chance to create characters, forge alliances, and shape the unfolding story with your choices. Will you save the villagers, join forces with the dragon, or battle demons—both literal and figurative? Your path is yours to forge, but remember: every decision has consequences, and the dice will decide your fate!
This session is all about creativity, teamwork, and unleashing your imagination in a supportive, inclusive environment. Organised by Creatively Autistic Together CIC (CAT), this workshop is designed with neuro-inclusivity and accessible ways of working as its heart, ensuring everyone can join in, feel welcome, and have fun.
Gather your creativity, roll the dice, and get ready to dive into a fantastical adventure where the only limit is your imagination.

The Best of Everything: Kit De Waal
2025-07-11 14:00 - 15:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
An engaging and heartfelt interview with acclaimed author Kit De Waal, as she discusses her moving new novel, The Best of Everything. This compelling contemporary story explores love, loss, unexpected motherhood, and the quiet courage it takes to care.
‘A profoundly compassionate novel of devastating power and emotional complexity’ – Bernardine Evaristo.
‘So deeply moving: sad and beautiful and true’ – Annie MacManus
Expect an intimate, thought-provoking author interview, conducted by Leanne Moden, filled with reflections on grief, resilience, and the different forms love can take.
Kit De Waal will be book signing after the event at the pop-up bookshop at Newark Town Hall, where you can buy your own copy too.

Creating Characters
2025-07-11 16:00 - 17:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
What makes a character unforgettable? How do authors breathe life into the people who live on the page long after the book is closed?
Step into the heart of the storytelling process with bestselling authors Caroline James and Rowan Coleman, as they talk to Fee Mak about the art of character creation—how their fictional favourites are born, developed, and brought vividly to life.
From romance to historical drama, Caroline and Rowan craft characters who feel real, relatable, and impossible not to root for. Caroline James brings warmth and wit to every page, with her latest novel The Cruise Club offering onboard adventures and friendship in the most fabulous of settings. Her characters sparkle with humour, heart, and second chances.
Rowan Coleman, Sunday Times bestselling author and screenwriter, delivers emotionally rich, immersive fiction. Her latest novel Never Tear Us Apart is set on the beautiful yet dangerous island of Malta during WWII—a sweeping story of love, resilience, and destiny. Writing also as Bella Ellis, Rowan reimagines the Brontë sisters as sleuths in her clever and atmospheric Bronte Mysteries series.
Together, they’ll explore how characters shape a story, how they surprise even their creators, and why readers connect so deeply to fictional lives. With Fee Mak, BBC Radio 1Xtra presenter and bookstagrammer behind High Shelf Esteem, guiding the conversation, this event promises to be as lively and engaging as the characters themselves.
Expect laughter, insight, and plenty of inspiration—plus a book signing to follow.

An evening with Sophie Hannah
2025-07-11 19:00 - 20:30 | Palace Theatre, Palace Theatre, Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
A crime thriller so gripping, you won’t see the twist coming…
If you love razor-sharp suspense, dark humour, and stories that keep you guessing until the very last line, this is an evening you won’t want to miss. Sophie Hannah’s crime novels have captivated millions worldwide, and now’s your chance to hear from the master of psychological twists herself.
Enjoy your Friday evening with Sophie Hannah at Newark Book Festival, in an interview with Dr. Tim Rideout.
What makes a family do the unthinkable? Could you ever justify the impossible? Sophie’s latest thriller takes that question to shocking new heights. And with reviews calling it “brilliant,” “audacious,” and “wry, ingenious” – you’ll want to get your hands on a copy before everyone’s talking about it.
Book signing included! Get your copy of No One Would Do What the Lamberts Have Done at the festival and have it signed by Sophie Hannah after the event.
Tickets are on sale now! Secure your seat at Newark’s Palace Theatre for an unforgettable night of crime, mystery, and storytelling magic.

Literature Village
2025-07-12 - 2025-07-13 | Newark Market Place, Newark Royal Market, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Saturday 12th July 9.30am – 4pm
Wonderful local bookish crafts and trinkets, stories and books of all genres. Find the Literature Village under the red and white stripes of the Newark Royal Market stalls and, due to the popularity of the event, spilling between the colonnades inside the Buttermarket.
Sunday 13th July 10am – 3pm
Join in as the Literature Village takes over the entire Royal Market for the day with over 60 stalls, and family fun in the dedicated Children’s Zone. Find a treasure trove of all things literary related including crafts, books, poetry, authors and more. Sponsored by The Coffeehouse Writer.
Look out for the roaming street performers and their hula hoops on Sunday and join in the fun!

The Brain at Rest
2025-07-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
What if doing less was the key to thinking more clearly, creatively, feeling better, and living longer?
In this fascinating and eye-opening event, neuroscientist and bestselling author Dr Joseph Jebelli introduces his latest book, The Brain at Rest—a timely and transformative exploration of the science behind stillness, rest, and recovery.
Drawing on cutting-edge research and global case studies, Dr Jebelli reveals how overwork, constant stimulation, and modern busyness are reshaping our brains and harming our health. From the Japanese phenomenon of karoshi (death by overwork) to the power of short walks and the mind-clearing effects of nature, The Brain at Rest offers powerful insight into why slowing down might just save our minds.
Learn how just four minutes of movement can lift your mood, why forest bathing boosts immunity, and how rest is essential for everything from memory to creativity. Packed with engaging stories, neuroscience-backed facts, and practical tips, this is more than a book talk—it’s an invitation to reset.
You’ll have a chance to ask any questions at the end, and get your own copy of the book signed by the author.
Whether you’re burned out, curious, or just looking for a new perspective, take this hour to do something radical: pause, listen, and let your brain rest.

2025 Summer Reading Challenge - Story Garden
2025-07-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Newark Library Children’s Area, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW
The World Famous Story Emporium is putting on gardening gloves and wellies and loading up its wheelbarrow with pens and paper for some story-inspired green-fingered crafty fun. Join Ally Pally Arts in sowing stories and harvesting happy endings at Newark Library to launch the Summer Reading Challenge.
No need to book, drop into Newark Library and enjoy this free event.

Young Ambassadors Writing Workshop
2025-07-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Newark Library Meeting Room, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, Newark, NG24 1UW, United Kingdom
An exclusive event for Newark Book Festival’s Young Ambassadors and keen writers, bursting with ideas!
Do you love writing stories or poems? Join the creative workshop with poet, performer and educator Leanne Moden and shape your ideas into your new story or poem.
It’s fun, it’s friendly, and it’s all about finding your voice and making your writing the best that it can be!
Exclusive event for Young Ambassadors. Email hello@newarkbookfestival.co.uk to book your space.
Find out more about how you can join to become a Young Ambassador next year here.

Byron's Manor: Birthplace of his poetry
2025-07-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Discover how Southwell and Newark shaped Lord Byron’s early life and poetry, in this richly illustrated talk featuring rare images and unpublished works.
Join Geoffrey Bond OBE, DL, FSA—Byron expert and author of Byron’s Manor: Birthplace of His Poetry—for a fascinating exploration of Lord Byron’s formative years and the places that shaped his earliest work.
In this special Newark Book Festival event, Bond draws on decades of research and personal insight to offer a fresh perspective on Byron’s early life in Southwell. Speaking from the rare vantage point of someone who has lived in Burgage Manor—Byron’s Southwell residence—for over 30 years, Bond takes audiences through the poet’s time in Nottinghamshire, where he wrote and published his first four volumes of poetry. He also explores Byron’s connection to Newark, where his early works were printed by Samuel Ridge.
Whether you’re a lover of poetry, literary history, or local heritage, this event offers a rare chance to step into Byron’s world—and the rooms where it all began.

Bookbench Storytime: Newark By Day/Night Bench
2025-07-12 11:30 - 12:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Join Newark Book Festival’s Young Ambassadors for a free storytime session at the Newark By Day/Night Bookbench.
You’ll find our magical Young Ambassador storytellers and the BookBench opposite Letsxcape inside Newark Town Hall. Go through the Market Place entrance and you won’t miss it!
It’s a FREE event! Just pop along on the day to enjoy our stories.

Bookbench Storytime: Castles in the Air Bench
2025-07-12 12:00 - 14:00 | Inspire, Newark Buttermarket (upstairs)
Continuing the Dragons and Fairytale theme from Inspired Learning and Music teams’ event, Dragons & Fairytale Fun. Join storyteller Nicky Rafferty (at 12pm and 1pm) and our festival’s Young Ambassadors (at 2pm) for some mythical, magical, made-up storytime fun at the Castle in the Air Bookbench found inside Buttermarket.
Ideal for story-lovers aged 2 – 10 years

Dragons and Fairytale Fun
2025-07-12 12:00 - 16:00 | Inspire, Newark Buttermarket (upstairs)
Join the Inspire Learning and Music teams in a Dragons and Fairytale themed afternoon, with drop-in arts and crafts, have-a-go music sessions and meet Sapphire the Dragon and her friend Sparky.
Make a fire-breathing paper dragon, fold your own origami frog prince, and sit down with local picture book illustrator Vicky Kuhn for some fairytale colouring in. Create some dragon cartoons with the Doodling Poet Chris White. Write a funny, happy or sad poem about, ‘What a Dragon would say’, and make your dragon puppets and fairytale tower or castle to take home.
Perfect for any aged creative!

Georgian Creativity & Artistry with Essie Fox and Laura Shepherd-Robinson
2025-07-12 12:30 - 13:30 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Step into the glittering, shadowy world of 18th-century intrigue, creativity, and scandal as two of today’s most exciting historical fiction authors, Essie Fox and Laura Shepherd-Robinson, join Dr Tim Rideout for a lively and illuminating conversation.
From the opulent palazzos of Venice to the bustling streets of Georgian London, this event dives into the drama, deception, and artistic flair of a time when danger and beauty walked hand in hand.
Essie Fox, bestselling author of The Fascination, returns with her new book, Dangerous—a bold reimagining of Lord Byron himself as a reluctant detective, embroiled in a deadly mystery amid the Venetian elite. Blending fact and fiction, Fox captures Byron’s wit, scandal, and complexity in a gothic murder tale worthy of the poet’s infamous reputation.
Laura Shepherd-Robinson, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Square of Sevens, presents her latest novel, The Art of a Lie. Set in 1749, it follows Hannah Cole, a struggling widow and confectioner whose life is upended by secrets, murder, and the emergence of a delicious new invention: iced cream. Rich in period detail, suspense, and atmosphere, it’s a thrilling story of deception, survival, and reinvention.
Join Essie and Laura at Newark Town Hall for rich discussion, insight into researching and writing historical fiction, and a glimpse into the artistry behind these vivid, twist-filled tales.
A book signing will follow the talk—don’t miss your chance to meet the authors and pick up a signed copy of your next favourite read!

Creative Battle: Stories, Stitches & Sketches
2025-07-12 14:30 - 15:30 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Four bold creatives. One stage. Endless inspiration.
Creative Battle brings together a dynamic panel of artists from across the creative spectrum—each with a unique approach to storytelling, design, and imagination—for a lively and insightful on-stage showdown. Expect friendly rivalry, candid discussion, and plenty of laughter as they debate the meaning of creativity, where ideas come from, and what it really takes to bring a vision to life.
On the panel:
Chris Shepherd, writer, artist, filmmaker, and British comedy legend, is known for his award-winning short films, animated collaborations, and debut graphic novel Anfield—a visual journey into memory, identity, and Liverpool culture.
Gillie Ford, beloved contestant from The Great British Sewing Bee, stitches stories into every design, bringing creativity to life through colour, fabric, and flair. Her fashion-forward perspective on craft is both expressive and empowering.
Eleanor Tomlinson, the illustrator behind the viral “Jubilee Ma’amalade Tea” artwork, channels the beauty of the Yorkshire countryside into her heartwarming and globally celebrated illustrations. From wildlife to royalty, Eleanor’s work brings charm and storytelling to every image.
Lucy Mangan, celebrated journalist and author of Bookworm and its follow-up Bookish, is a fierce defender of the written word. Her sharp wit and deep love for books have made her a leading voice in cultural commentary and literary life.
Together, these creative powerhouses will go head-to-head, sharing their inspirations, challenges, and creative quirks in a conversation led by Dr. Tim Rideout. Whether you’re an artist, reader, crafter or thinker—this is a vibrant celebration of imagination in all its forms.
Who will win the battle of creativity? The audience decides.

Pleasantly Disturbed - Interview with Lee Stuart Evans
2025-07-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Join Newark Book Festival for an unmissable event as top TV comedy writer Lee Stuart Evans sits down with author and interviewer Nick Quantrill to talk about his hilarious and heartfelt new novel, Pleasantly Disturbed an hilarious 1980s Nottinghamshire-set novel full of music, mystery, and heart.
With a comedy career spanning shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, The Jonathan Ross Show, and I’m A Celebrity…, Lee brings his trademark wit and warmth to the page in a story packed with big laughs, unforgettable characters, and a killer soundtrack.
Set in the late 1980s, Pleasantly Disturbed follows Robin—a Simple Minds-obsessed dreamer with zero musical talent—and Fliss, a brilliant but shy musical prodigy. When they’re drawn into a bizarre mystery involving fast cars, a derelict railway yard, and a murder in the middle of Sherwood Forest, the result is part comedy caper, part coming-of-age, and entirely feel-good fiction.
Expect a lively, laugh-out-loud conversation about writing for comedy legends, growing up in the East Midlands, and the joys of 80s nostalgia—plus a few behind-the-scenes tales from TV and publishing.
Described by Patrick Kielty as “alive and kicking with big laughs and an even bigger heart,” Pleasantly Disturbed is fast becoming a festival favourite. Stick around after the talk for a book signing and a chance to meet the man behind the mayhem!

En Plein Aire - Paint Club with Urban Canvas
2025-07-13 10:00 - 15:00 | Newark Market Place, Newark Royal Market, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Paint what you see and explore the joy of creating art in the open air—just like the French Impressionists! Materials provided, no experience needed. Just drop in and get creative.

Trio of Creative Criminals
2025-07-13 10:30 - 11:30 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Enjoy talks about page-turning plots and a touch of dark humour in this thrilling panel featuring three of crime fiction’s most compelling voices. M.J. Arlidge, T.M. Logan, and Ian Moore come together for a high-stakes conversation on killers, kidnappers, and clever detectives—hosted by crime genre expert Dr Tim Rideout.
T.M. Logan, author of multiple Sunday Times bestsellers, brings The Daughter, a pulse-pounding new thriller about a missing university student and a family plunged into a nightmare. Packed with twists, emotion, and race-against-time intensity, Logan’s work continues to captivate millions of readers around the world.
M.J. Arlidge, master of the gritty procedural, returns with Into the Fire, the latest in his bestselling DI Helen Grace series. This time, Helen is off the force but far from out of action, thrust into a violent mystery after witnessing an attack and kidnapping. Tense, thrilling, and unrelenting, Arlidge proves once again that justice doesn’t always wear a badge.
Please be aware that unfortunately Ian Moore will not be able to attend this event.
Ian Moore, bestselling author of the Follet Valley Mysteries, offers a lighter take on murder with his latest novel Death and Boules. Set in sun-soaked rural France, this witty and charming cosy mystery follows amateur sleuths Richard and Valérie as a town twinning event turns into a deadly affair.
From brutal suspense to darkly comic whodunnits, this event promises a lively and layered discussion about the craft of crime writing, character creation, and keeping readers hooked. A book signing will follow the event.
Whether you’re a fan of fast-paced thrillers or cosy conundrums, there’s a crime for everyone in this captivating session.

Oaklore - Jules Acton
2025-07-13 11:00 - 12:00 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
What links Robin Hood, Shakespeare, fungi, and folklore? Discover the surprising and magical history of Britain’s most iconic tree in this captivating book talk with Jules Acton, author of Oaklore: Adventures in a World of Extraordinary Trees.
A former journalist and long-time environmental advocate, Jules has worked with the Woodland Trust, the Wildlife Trusts, and WaterAid. In Oaklore, Jules Acton explores how oak trees have shaped British culture, mythology, and the natural world.
From their role in crafting ancient ink to their place in poetry, sorcery, and sacred rituals, oaks have inspired stories, art, songs, and traditions for generations. Jules’ talk will feature fascinating insights from the book, including encounters with legendary trees like Sherwood’s Medusa Oak and Cheshire’s Marton Oak, and will include tips on reconnecting with nature in your own life.
Join in for a lively, thought-provoking journey through tangled roots and timeless tales—an event perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and curious minds alike. The talk will be followed by a book signing.
Let yourself be enchanted by the oak—king of the woods and keeper of countless stories.

Writing The World - Walk & Workshop
2025-07-13 11:00 - 12:30 | Newark Castle, Newark Castle, Castlegate, Newark, NG24 1BG
Bring your imagination and your walking feet, and get ready to Write the World, in this walk and writing workshop as part of Newark Book Festival. Where every step uncovers a new idea.
This unique session invites writers aged 9+ and their parents to take inspiration from their surroundings as they walk through Newark’s historic streets and green spaces. Along the way, Amy will guide you through a series of writing exercises designed to sharpen your use of sensory description, detail, and contrast—all essential skills for crafting vivid, engaging stories.
By writing on location, you’ll experience how setting can influence atmosphere and bring your writing to life in new and unexpected ways. Let the real world feed your imagination.
Practice important writing techniques and you walk around Newark, such as using sensory description, capturing detail and creating contrast. Expect fresh air, creative flow, and plenty of moments that might just spark your next big idea.
Bring a notebook, a pen, and comfortable walking shoes—and let Newark be your muse.
Meet Note everyone will now meet outside the Castle Gates opposite Gannets.

Newark Town Centre Tree Walk
2025-07-13 12:30 - 13:30 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
Join Adam Cormack of the Woodland Trust, in partnership with Newark and Sherwood District Council, for a relaxing and informative tree walk through Newark town centre.
Discover the hidden stories and natural beauty of Newark’s green spaces as Adam leads you on a gentle walking tour through the Friary Gardens, Sherwood Avenue, and Library Gardens. Learn how trees shape our urban environments, explore different species, and hear about the work being done to protect and enhance these vital green spaces for future generations.
Perfect for nature lovers, curious minds, and anyone looking to see Newark through a fresh lens, this walk offers insight into both the ecological and cultural importance of trees in our everyday landscapes.
Please wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather, and note that children must be accompanied by an adult.
Spaces are strictly limited to 15 participants, so advance booking is essential. Secure your spot early and enjoy a mindful walk filled with nature, knowledge, and community connection.
Meet at Newark Town Hall steps near the Market Place.

One Step Ahead - C.L. Peache
2025-07-13 12:30 - 13:30 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Jersey, this twist-filled story follows a group of friends reunited for a charity walk—only to be confronted by the unresolved death of one of their own.
In conversation with fellow author Maria Dziedzan, Clair will share her journey from self-published writer to securing a three-book publishing deal, and reflect on writing across genres, crafting layered characters, and the challenges (and joys!) of working from her narrowboat.
Expect a lively and insightful discussion about how place, memory, and mystery weave together in her work, as well as behind-the-scenes stories of what it takes to bring a suspenseful novel like One Step Ahead to life.
Perfect for lovers of psychological thrillers, gripping whodunnits, and those curious about the writing and publishing process, this free event is a wonderful opportunity to meet a rising name in mystery fiction.
Book signing to follow – copies of One Step Ahead available to purchase on the day. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this page-turning conversation at Newark Book Festival.
Free event to book, email clpeache@gmail.com

Rap School Poetic Flow with Rob Bradley
2025-07-13 13:00 - 14:00 | Newark Town Hall, Newark Town Hall, Market Place, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1DU
In The Rap School, Rob combines the power of poetry, rhythm, and performance to help young people find their voice through rap. Kicking things off with a live freestyle using words from the audience, Rob sets the stage with his signature wit, wordplay, and infectious energy.
Explore key techniques of rap writing, from rhyme and rhythm to flow and lyricism, and craft your own original verses during the workshop before taking to the stage to perform your rap in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere—boosting confidence and showcasing talent.
Rob has performed across the globe—from New York’s underground clubs to major festivals across Europe. He’s given multiple TEDx talks and is celebrated for his compelling storytelling and unmatched freestyle skills. Drawing on influences like The Fugees, 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G., Rob’s work is all about truth, creativity, and connection.
Perfect for teens and young adults (and their parents, too), this is a must-attend event for anyone into rap, poetry, or self-expression. No experience needed—just bring your energy and imagination. Recommended 7+

Stokes Coffee Roasting
2025-07-13 13:00 - 14:00 | Stokes Tea & Coffee, Robin Hood Walk, Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1HX, United Kingdom
Watch beans roast to perfection and explore the craft, care, and creativity behind every fresh cup!

Crimes, Clues & The Inside Man - Interview with Trevor Wood
2025-07-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Tudor Hall, National Civil War Centre, National Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1JY
Get ready for a gripping dive into the dark and compelling world of crime fiction as award-winning author Trevor Wood joins crime fiction expert and interviewer Alex Hawley to discuss his latest novel, The Inside Man—the powerful sequel to his acclaimed police procedural The Silent Killer.
DCI Jack Parker is back, and the stakes are higher than ever. Still hiding his diagnosis of early onset dementia, Parker must navigate the demands of a complex and dangerous investigation while concealing the illness that threatens to unravel everything. Set in Newcastle, this thrilling series brings raw authenticity, emotional depth, and a fresh twist to the genre.
Trevor, whose debut The Man on the Street won the CWA John Creasey New Blood Dagger, has carved out a reputation for crime fiction that is bold, compassionate, and deeply human. His work blends gritty realism with unforgettable characters—none more so than Jack Parker, a detective trying to outrun time while pursuing justice.
Guiding the conversation is Alex Hawley, a familiar face at Newark Book Festival and a passionate voice in the crime writing community. From his days as a blogger to becoming a regular judge and panellist across the UK festival circuit, Alex brings insight, humour, and sharp questions to the stage.
Expect insider stories, thought-provoking discussion, and a behind-the-scenes look at crafting a detective battling more than just criminals. A must for crime fans and lovers of character-driven fiction alike. Book signing to follow.

Sunday News
2025-07-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Gannets Bistro, Gannets Bistro, 35 Castle Gate, Newark, NG24 1AZ, United Kingdom
A special edition of our monthly Morning News event with Newark Book Festival board members Mary and Richard Haig.
Please email maryprimrose47@gmail.com to book your tickets as spaces are limited and this event needs to be booked in advance.
Please note that this event is held upstairs at Gannet Café and unfortunately has no step-free access.

Inspired Anthology Launch Event
2025-07-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Inspire, Newark Buttermarket (upstairs)
Celebrate the launch of Inspired, a brand-new anthology created by a talented local writing group who first met during creative writing courses at Inspire, Newark Buttermarket.
Born from a shared love of storytelling and self-expression, Inspired is a collaborative collection of poetry, short fiction, and creative non-fiction that reflects the diverse voices and imaginative spark of its contributors. This special event offers a chance to hear selected readings from the anthology and gain insight into the creative prompts and exercises that inspired the writers’ work.
Whether you’re a writer yourself or simply enjoy discovering new talent, this is a wonderful opportunity to support local creatives and experience an afternoon of heartfelt and original writing.
During the launch, you’ll have the chance to purchase Inspired at the special launch price of £5 (usual price £6.50). Both card and cash payments will be accepted.
Refreshments will be provided, and you’re warmly invited to stay, chat, and celebrate the group’s achievement in the place where it all began. No booking required just turn up on the day.
Come along to be inspired—and maybe even inspired to write yourself!
