T: (028) 9538 0895 events@magheramorneestate.com
Magheramorne Literary Festival
Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd March From £15
Join us for a celebration of storytelling
Taking place from Saturday 21 to Sunday 22 March 2026, the inaugural Magheramorne Literary Festival is a new celebration of outstanding writing from across the UK and Ireland.
We invite you to join us for a weekend with authors whose compelling work, ideas and stories are shaping the conversations of global audiences. Across two days, novelists, non-fiction writers, photographers and historians will take the stage for a thoughtfully curated programme of “In Conversation” events where you will hear stories told first-hand and explore the thinking behind their writing.
With a distinguished line-up of household names and critically acclaimed voices, the festival will unfold across the stunning grounds and manor house of Magheramorne Estate, with opportunities to enjoy our award-winning hospitality and a restorative overnight stays along the way.
Our sponsors
We are indebted to our partner, Port of Larne, and our associate sponsors whose kind contributions have enabled us to bring this festival to life.
Discover our speakers
A Sense of Place with David Hume, Sheena Jolley and Paul Clements
Saturday 21 March @ 11am £15
Enjoy a guided walk through the grounds of Magheramorne Estate, followed by an intimate conversation...
“Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York”: Andrew Lownie in conversation with Donna Traynor
Saturday 21 March @ 2pm £15
Andrew Lownie’s Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York has been hailed...
The Reunion: David Park and Brian McGilloway in conversation
Saturday 21 March @ 4pm £15
When Brian McGilloway was a student and aspiring writer, he set up a book festival...
Life, Work, Everything: Miriam O’Callaghan in conversation with Sarah Travers
Saturday 21 March @ 7.30pm £15
Miriam O’Callaghan is one of Ireland’s best known broadcasters and is known for hosting award...
“Frankly”: Nicola Sturgeon in conversation with Stephen Walker
Sunday 22 March @ 1pm £15
Nicola Sturgeon served as First Minister of Scotland and leader of the Scottish National Party...
Wendy Erskine and Jan Carson in conversation with Freya McClements
Sunday 22 March @ 3pm £15
Wendy Erskine and Jan Carson are two of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary writers. Wendy...
Murder In Magheramorne: Adrian McKinty in conversation with Colin Bateman
Sunday 22 March @ 6pm £15
Join internationally acclaimed crime novelist Adrian McKinty in conversation with writer and screenwriter Colin Bateman...
From Page Turners to Deadly TV: Jo Spain and Declan Lawn in conversation with Brian McGilloway
Sunday 22 March @ 8pm £15
Join bestselling author and screenwriter Jo Spain and award-winning screenwriter and producer Declan Lawn for...
Make a weekend of it
Make the most of your Magheramorne Literary Festival experience by staying overnight at the estate. Designed for two people, our overnight stays include our iconic Estate Breakfast and day or weekend festival passes, allowing you to enjoy the programme at an unhurried pace.
Relax and recharge with food by Jane's Kitchen
Throughout the festival, Jane’s Kitchen will be running a pop-up café in the Conservatory from 10am to 7.30pm on Saturday and 12pm to 7.30pm on Sunday. Drop in between sessions for light bites and delicious snacks, all freshly prepared and perfect for keeping you fuelled as the conversations continue. Expect a tempting selection of paninis, soups, sandwiches and other savoury bites, alongside sweet treats and cakes; ideal for a quick pause or a longer moment to recharge.
Our bar will also be open throughout the event, offering a relaxed space to gather, reflect and continue conversations over a drink.
Curated by Stephen Walker
The Magheramorne Literary Festival is curated by Stephen Walker, an award-winning journalist, former BBC correspondent and author with more than 30 years’ experience covering politics and public life across the UK and Ireland.
He is the author of respected political biographies including John Hume: The Persuader and David Trimble: Peacemaker. As curator, Stephen has brought together a line-up that celebrates storytelling, thoughtful conversation, distinctive voices and the exchange of ideas.
Our book selling partner
The Secret Bookshelf is Ireland’s Independent Bookshop of the Year 2024 and a much-loved hidden gem set in The Courtyard, Carrickfergus. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful curation, the shop offers everything from a standout Irish interest section to the latest new releases, alongside a dedicated children’s book room and a carefully chosen pre-loved collection. A proper independent bookshop in every sense, The Secret Bookshelf is also happy to take customer orders and source out-of-print titles wherever possible.
They will be on hand throughout the festival, offering a chance to browse and purchase books from featured authors and beyond.
Book your tickets
Book your tickets now and don’t miss your chance to see your favourite authors at this special event. Day passes are available which will save you 25%.
