A Downton Abbey star reading from his latest children's book, a bestselling historical novelist exploring England's only convicted royal witch, and two major literary festivals are among the highlights of Suffolk's literary calendar this month.
October's programme ranges from family storytelling and poetry to nature writing, book groups and author talks, with events taking place everywhere from Ipswich and Lowestoft to Bury St Edmunds and Woodbridge.
There are also opportunities to discuss short fiction at a literary salon, hear eco-poetry inspired by the natural world and take part in a free day celebrating children's books.
Here are nine literary events to add to the diary this October.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1
Poetry Evening
- The Green Room, Ipswich
- 6.30pm
- £7.50, book via Eventbrite
Suffolk Wildlife Trust's Festival of Nature opens with an evening of poetry celebrating the natural world.
Laurel Prize-nominated poet Eliza O'Toole will read from her work and discuss the inspirations behind her writing before guests have the chance to stay and chat over drinks and snacks.
READ MORE: Ipswich Book Festival aims to spark reading passion in 4,000 children
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 TO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4
Ipswich Book Festival
- Various venues, Ipswich
- Various times
- Prices vary, book via Ipswich Book Festival
More than 55 events are planned as Ipswich Book Festival returns for its second year.
The programme includes appearances from Janet Street-Porter, Robin Ince, Caroline Quentin and Ashley Hickson-Lovence, alongside workshops, children's events, local author showcases and creative activities across the town centre.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8 TO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11
Bury St Edmunds Literature Festival
- Various venues, Bury St Edmunds
- Various times
- Prices vary, book via Bury St Edmunds Literature Festival
The four-day festival returns with its biggest programme yet.
READ MORE: Witches, words and wonderful food at Bury St Edmunds literature festival 2026
Highlights include Rachel Joyce, Sarah Winman, Louis de Bernières, Monique Roffey and Emily Howes, alongside poetry events, writing workshops, children's activities, guided walks and a new food programme.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9
The Nature of Seeing with Mark Cocker
- Shimpling Park Farm, near Bury St Edmunds
- 6pm
- From £55, book via The Suffolk
Acclaimed naturalist and author Mark Cocker joins organic farmer John Pawsey for an evening conversation exploring people's relationship with nature, wildlife and the countryside.
The event includes a seasonal supper showcasing produce from the farm and local suppliers.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10
Spellbound by Books
- East Point Pavilion, Lowestoft
- 9.30am
- Free, book via TicketSource
This new family book day includes storytelling, readings, workshops and activities for children.
Highlights include actor and author Hugh Bonneville reading from his latest children's book, storyteller Kate Rolfe and illustrator Matt Robertson, alongside face painting, crafts and themed activities.
Spellbound is supported by Sizewell C and East Suffolk Council. Jack Raven, senior regional sustainability project manager at Sizewell C, said: "We’re delighted to support this exciting new event, bringing children, families and communities together through the magic of stories.
"Reading sparks imagination builds confidence and creates opportunities for young people. That’s why we’ve supported initiatives such as the East Anglian Daily Times’ Born and Read in Suffolk campaign, which has seen a range of exciting and engaging events and activities, including staff at Sizewell C heading into local schools to read to pupils.
"We’re proud to work with local partners to make events like this accessible, helping more children discover the joy, creativity and possibilities that reading can unlock."
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14
Emily Howes
- Ipswich Institute, Ipswich
- 7.30pm
- From £10, book via Suffolk Book League
The author of The Painter's Daughters and Mrs Dickens visits Suffolk Book League for an evening discussing her novels, research and writing career.
The Painter's Daughters was named among the Sunday Times' top historical fiction books of the year after winning the Mslexia Novel Prize.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18
An Audience with Philippa Gregory
- Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds
- 3pm
- From £12, book via Theatre Royal
Historical novelist Philippa Gregory discusses her latest book, Royal Witch, which explores the story of Eleanor Cobham, England's only convicted royal witch.
The fundraising event promises insights into medieval history, power and the forgotten women who shaped the past.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25
Kids' October Book Group
- Dial Lane Books, Ipswich
- 3pm
- Free, book via Dial Lane Books
Young readers are invited to discuss the month's chosen title with fellow book lovers at Ipswich's independent bookshop.
The informal session offers children a chance to share their thoughts and discover new reads.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28
The Third Space: Literary Salon
- New Street Market, Woodbridge
- 6pm
- Free, book via New Street Market
English literature specialist Ruth McLoughlin leads a discussion exploring selections from The Oxford Book of Short Stories.
The monthly salon welcomes readers interested in classic short fiction, with discussions covering authors including James Joyce, Katherine Mansfield and Somerset Maugham.
This story is published as part of Born & Read in Suffolk, a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing and Suffolk Community Libraries, headline sponsor Sizewell C and sponsor Suffolk Coastal Port Health Authority, and supported by Ipswich Town Football Club.
Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk
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