A to Z
Regular events in the Leeds and Yorkshire area - and beyond!
As I am based in Leeds, it would be difficult to accurately report on poetry events throughout the country. So have divided this page up into three parts which I update most days.
Firstly there is the Leeds Poetry Events,
followed by Yorkshire Poetry Events,
then poetry events from Events Outside of Yorkshire.
If you are uncertain which city/town your event is in go to the A to Z Finder at the bottom of the page
Events in Leeds
(Including Ben Rhydding, Burley, City Centre, Headingley, Horsforth, Ilkley, Morley, Otley, Woodhouse)
Bone Down
Our open mics reclaim public spaces and take an informal approach to poetry and spoken word.
Venues vary - includes outdoor events.
Last event: 29 April 2026, 6.30 pm to 9 pm
at West Park Orchard, Leeds LS16 5 HT
Links: Facebook; Instagram; Twitter
The Bookish Type Writes
Queer Indie Bookshop in Leeds with writing time events
The Bookish Type, 77a Great George Street, LS1 3BR
Next event: 25th June , 2026, 6.30pm to 8.30pm. £5 (Sold Out)
Links: Instagram, The Bookish Type - Independent Queer Bookshop in Leeds
Brave Words
Storytelling Our storytelling nights aren’t about well-honed, perfect performances. You don’t need to be a performer at all to share authentic experiences from your life.
Hoc Loco, Horsforth, LS18 4QB. Third Tuesday of the month. Last meeting: 19th May, 7,30pm.
Terminus Tap Room and Bottle Shop (The Meanwood Brewery), Leeds, LS6 4H. Next meeting: 9th June, 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. (Linked to Leeds Lit Fest) See links / Events page.
Write Club: Creative prompts to get you writing in a supportive creative writing group led by a professional poet and playwright' Open to all levels of experience!
Online Monthly; Usually first Wednesday of the month. Next meeting 1st July, 2026, 6pm to 7pm. See links / Events page.
In person - Weekly on Mondays, 11am -12.30pm. Next meeting: 8th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Space2, The Old Fire Station, Gipton Approach, Leeds, LS9 6NL
Links: www.bravewords.co.uk, Facebook, Instagram.
Cardigan Arms Open Mic
Open mic. This is mostly music based, but spoken word is welcome, too.
The Cardigan Arms, 364 Kirkstall Road, Leeds, LS4 2HQ
Second & fourth Monday of the month, 7.30pm for 3 hours.
Next meeting 8th June, 2026. See links / Events page
Links: Cardigan Arms website, Open Mic | Cardigan Arms | Facebook
Chapel FM
Chapel FM Arts Centre is a house of creativity, art, music, writing & more with radio at the core. Listen live or any time on our website. There are a number of archived poetry programmes, plus many new events in person, and on air.
Chapel FM Arts Centre, 1081 York Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS14 6JB
Open Mic Night - Live. 7.30 pm to 10.pm. Music and spoken word. 26th June, 2026.
book in advance - for details visit the link: THE CHAPEL FM OPEN MIC NIGHT, LIVE! – Chapel FM
Links: Chapel FM – The greatest Arts Centre in East Leeds; Facebook, Instagram, ChapEL FM - YouTube
Chemic Tavern open mic
Open mic for music & spoken word. House guitar and piano available. This is mostly a music event. Free drink for all performers.
The Chemic Tavern
The Chemic Tavern (Woodhouse), 9, Johnson Street, Leeds, LS6 2NG
Weekly; Thursday nights
Chemistry
Featuring headline sets from established and emerging poets, plus an open mic
The Chemic Tavern (Woodhouse), 9, Johnson Street, Leeds, LS6 2NG
Bi-Monthly; last Friday of every other month
Next Meeting: 31st July, 2026, 7.15 pm for a 7.45 pm start. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook; organiser Joe Williams’ website
Cloth and Coal
Poetry and spoken word open mic
Morley Live!, 1 Beryl Burton Gardens, Morley, LS27 9FN
Every other month; the third Thursday, 8pm.
Next meeting 23 July, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Instagram
Crooner Club
Open mic
Bridge End Social, 24-32 Bridge End, Leeds LS1 4DJ
Monthly: 3rd Thursday of the month
Links: Bridge End Social, Instagram
Hyde Park Book Club
Lots of music, comedy and poetry events. Check the link for the latest.
Open Mic for music and poetry.
Hyde Park Book Club, 27-29 Headingley Lane, Leeds, LS6 1BL
Lots of Leeds Lit Fest events are taking place here in June. Please look at: What’s on
Links: Hyde Park Book Club
Leeds Stanza
We are Leeds Stanza - a monthly meeting linked to @thepoetrysociety
For details contact leedsstanza@gmail.com
Meetings alternate between in-person and Zoom. All welcome.
Meet last Tuesday of every month, from 7pm to 8pm.
Next meeting: 30th June, 2026.
Links: Instagram
Moor Words Spoken Word Night
A friendly evening of spoken word in Ilkley. Sign up for a 5-minute reading slot, put your name in the hat, or come and watch. You're welcome to read fiction, poetry, or creative non fiction. (Mostly prose.)
Most recent venue: Vitello Lounge, 1-2 Station Plaza, Brook St, Ilkley, LS29 8DE
Last meeting: 21st May 2026. 7.00 pm arrival, 7.45 pm to 9.45 pm. Cost £6.50. See links / Events page.
Links: ISpoken Word Night Tickets, Thursday 21 May • 7:30 PM - 9:45 PM | Eventbrite
The National Poetry Centre
The National Poetry Centre exists to provide a national home for poetry in the UK – connecting people from all backgrounds and cultures to poetry. The new centre is due to be opened in Leeds in 2029.
For events see the links.
National Poetry Centre address is 169B Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9JT
Links: National Poetry Centre, Leeds, Facebook, Instagram
Northlight Arts Centre, Café and Event Space
31 Potternewton Lane, Leeds, LS7 3LW
Write Now: 1st and 3rd Friday of each month there is a meet up for creative writing at 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm.
Next meeting: 19th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Classes in Leeds — Northlight
Open Mind
Unplugged open mic
Previously Canalside Community Music Space
Weekly; Wednesdays from 7.30pm.
Next meeting: Awaiting new location
Links: Facebook
Otley Poets
Otley Poets run three groups:
1a) Otley Poets Live
Read around + guest.
Otley and Yeadon Labour Party, Nelson Street, Otley, LS21 1EZ
Occasional; first Thursday of the month, 7.45 pm to 9.45 pm.
Next meeting, 2nd July 2026, with guest, Laura Strickland. See links / Events page.
1b) Otley Poets Live
Read around (without a guest)
The Black Horse, 2 Westgate, Otley, LS21 3AS
Monthly; first Thursday of the month, 19.30 hours to 21.30 hours
Next meeting at this venue: 6th August, 2026. See links / Events page.
2) Other Poets
Meets to read and discuss the work of published poets
The Black Horse, 2 Westgate, Otley, LS21 3AS + online (via Zoom)
Monthly; second Thursday.
Next meeting: 11th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
3) Otley Poetry Gym
An informal group offering constructive criticism on poetry work in progress
The Black Horse, 2 Westgate, Otley, LS21 3AS
Monthly; third Thursday of the month.
Next meeting: 18th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Otley Poets website, Otley Poets | Facebook
Otley Stanza
Discuss all things poetical and sometimes have special events, readings etc.
Otley Courthouse
About every two months
Links: Otley Poets Website
Pen Power!
Creative Writing Workshops with D3
The Wardrobe, 6 Saint Peter's Square, Leeds LS9 8AH
Next meeting: 25th June, 2026 18.30 hours. See links / Events page. Cost £8.83-£15.
Links: Pen Power Tickets,Eventbrite
Poetic Off Licence
A space for poetry & live music in Leeds
Holding Patterns
2A Albion Place, LS1 6JL
Alternating Mondays.
Next Meeting: Back in July, 2026! From 6pm to 10 pm, see links.
Links: Instagram, Holding Patterns – Leeds' listening bar
Poets Talking Bollocks
Open mic with guest headliners - (message on Instagram for open mic slot)
Usually - The Chemic Tavern, (Woodhouse), 9, Johnson Street, Leeds, LS6 2NG, but not in June 2026
when it will be held at Hyde Park Book Club, 27-29 Headingley Lane, Leeds, LS6 1BL.
Monthly, second Sunday of the month, 2.15pm to 5.15pm
Next month PTB will be featured in Leeds Lit Fest: see Poets Talking Bollocks – Leeds Lit Fest 2026
Next meeting 14th June, 2026, booking required See links / Events page.
Links: Instagram , Poets Talking Bollocks | Podcast on Spotify
The Purple Room
The Purple Room is a space for words and music in Ben Rhydding, Ilkley.
St John's Ben Rhydding, Bolling Road, Ilkley, LS29 8PN
Links: The Purple Room | Facebook,
Runcible Spoon
Open mic + two guest poets
The Carriers Arms (Morley)
Monthly (third Tuesday)
Next meetings: Currently no new date.
Links: Facebook
Soundbites
Regular night featuring a guest poet + open mic
Heart Assembly Bar + Kitchen, Headingley Arts Centre, 9 Bennett Road, Leeds, LS6 3HN
2nd Monday of the Month. Open mic list begins at 6.30 pm for a 7 pm start with the guest poet.
Next meeting 8th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Speakeasy
Join us on the mic, or simply immerse yourself in the creativity! Everyone is welcome at our FREE event!
The Hive, Portland Building, Portland Way, City Space, Leeds, LS1 ЗНЕ.
Last meeting: 7th May 2026. 6.00 pm to 8 pm. See links. (This is the last meeting till next term.)
Links: Instagram
Moor Words Spoken Word Night
A friendly evening of spoken word at Vitello Lounge. Sign up for a 5-minute reading slot, put your name in the hat, or come and watch. You're welcome to read fiction, poetry, or creative non fiction. (Mostly prose.)
Vitello Lounge, 1-2 Station Plaza, Brook St, Ilkley, LS29 8DE
Last meeting: 21st May 2026. 7.00 pm arrival, 7.45 pm to 9.45 pm. Cost £6.50. See links / Events page.
Links: ISpoken Word Night Tickets, Thursday 21 May • 7:30 PM - 9:45 PM | Eventbrite
Wordspace
Monthly Variety Open Mic. For Prose, Poetry, Comedy, Music. all sorts.
Horsforth Brewery and Taproom, 143 New Road Side, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 4QD
Monthly; first Wednesday of the month. Next meeting 1st July, 2026, 7.00 pm - 9.30 pm. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Events in Yorkshire
I have put these events into an A to Z of cities and towns within Yorkshire.
Currently there are events from Barnsley, Batley, Bradford, Dinnington, Doncaster, Halifax, Harrogate, Holmfirth, Huddersfield, Hull, Liversedge, Masham, Rotherham, Sheffield, Sowerby Bridge, Scarborough, Todmorden, and Wakefield. Please keep scrolling to the end!
Events in Barnsley
The Barnsley Word Circle
Poems, Story Bites . Whether you write, read, or simply enjoy good words, you'll be very welcome. No experience needed - just come and enjoy. A relaxed open mic for poems and 4 minute story bites.
Batley Library14 Market Place, Batley, WF17 5DA
Second Friday of the month. Next meeting: 10th July, 2026. 7 pm to 9.30pm. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Events in Batley
Batley Poets Open Mic
Join us to share your poetry, favourite poems, or just listen and have a wonderful evening!
Batley Library14 Market Place, Batley, WF17 5DA
First Tuesday of the month. Next meeting: 7th July, 2026. 7 pm to 9.00 pm. See links / Events page.
Links: Instagram, Facebook, BatleyPoets.co.uk
Events in Bradford
Aletheia
Creative Writing Group with Elizabeth Taj-Radice
Bradford Quaker Meeting House, 9 Russell Street, Bradford BD5 0JB
Last meeting: 8th May, 2026, 7pm to 10pm. On the subject of origin. See links / Events page.
Beehive Poets
Open mic group.
City Library Bradford, 9 Aldermanbury, The Broadway, Bradford, BD1 1SD
First Friday of the Month.
Next meeting: 3rd July, 2026, 7pm to 9pm. See links / Events page.
Links: Beehive Poets | Facebook
Bradford Open Mic
Share your words or just listen. And if you're feeling brave take part in the Timed Poetry Challenge!
Write a poem of 60 sec or 30 sec to take part in the Timed Poetry Challenge.
City Library Bradford, 9 Aldermanbury, The Broadway, Bradford, BD1 1SD
First Wednesday of the Month. 7pm to 9pm.
Next meeting 1st July, 2026. Subject for challenge 'Arch Nemesis'. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
The Comedy Café
The Comedy Café hosts joyful comedy and poetry events in relaxing non-alcoholic spaces, with a focus on talent from BME communities.
Azka Lounge, 1260 Leeds Road, Laisterdyke, Bradford, BD1 2JL
Next meeting: 12th June, 2026, 6.30 pm
Links: Facebook, Instagram, The Comedy Cafe event tickets from TicketSource.
More Song
More Song is an innovative and experimental poetry reading series in Bradford.
The 1 in 12 Club Library, 21-23 Albion Street, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 2LY
Usually 1st Thursday of the month, check the links. (Small entry fee and booking recommended.)
Next meeting: 7th July, 2026, 7 pm to 9 pm. See links / Events page.
Prior to this event there will be 2 hour workshop by Rachel 2 pm to 4 pm, same venue.
Workshop and event £7, event £3 (Pay what you can)
Links: More Song,
‘Poetry and “the Between”’: A Workshop by Rachel Curzon Tickets, Thursday, June 4 • 2 PM - 4 PM | Eventbrite
More Song with Jake Wild Hall, Rachel Curzon and Kate Noakes — More Song
Rhubarb Writers
There are two events linked toi the Rhubarb Writers:
Rhubarb Book Club
Our poetry reading group meets to chat about a new pamphlet, anthology or collection recommended by one of our readers.
The Triangle, 47 Bradford Rd, Shipley, BD18 3DS
Bi-monthly usually the third Wednesday of the month
Rhubarb Open Mic
Performers and listeners welcome.
Pay as you feel open mic event with invited guest readers.
The Triangle, 47 Bradford Rd, Shipley, BD18 3DS
Monthly. Last Wednesday of the month. 7 pm for a 7.30 pm start.
Next meeting 24th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: RhubarbWriters.co.uk, Facebook
SisterVerse Open Mic
A chill space where creativity flows and stories come alive. Whether you’re a poet, singer, spoken word artist or storyteller, this is your moment to shine. Join us, in a supportive, local welcoming space. Come and experience the magic up poetry. Female only.
City Library Bradford, 9 Aldermanbury, The Broadway, Bradford, BD1 1SD
Monthly, last Friday of the month.
Next meeting: 26th June, 2026, 6.45 pm for a 7 pm start. Until 9 pm. See links / Events page.
Links: SisterVerse Open Mic - Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite
Urdu Shurdu
Share Urdu poetry with the aim of improving, vocabulary, reading and writing skills and sharing the love of Urdu poetry. Transliteration in English available for all poems shared.
Chaiiwala, 854 Leeds Road, Bradford, BD3 9TX
Next meeting: 18th June, 2026. 6.30 to 8 pm.
Links: See Events page.
Events in Dinnington
Northern Voices
Open Mic - local prose, poems, stories. Make yersen at 'ome.
Roadhouse Bar & Bottles, 25 Laughton Road, Dinnington, S25 2PN
Usually last Wednesday in the month, but next event is held back a week.
Next Meeting: 24th June. 7 pm to 10pm.
See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Events in Doncaster
Well Spoken
Spoken Word Event.
2nd Thursday of the month. Start time: 7.30pm.
Doncaster Brewery, 7 Young Street, Doncaster, DN1 3EL
Next meeting: 11th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Doncaster Brewery | Well Spoken
Events in Halifax
The Grayston Unity Open Mic-less Mic Night
In the bar, we are celebrating 10 years of the unplugged open mic with your host Mick Shaw. Mostly music, but can be song, comedy set or poem.
The Grayston Unity, 8 Horton Street, Halifax, HX1 1PU
(Note: put this address in the satnav as the place name may take you to a former address)
Next Meeting: 25th June, 2026, 7.30 pm.
Link: Whats On - The Grayston Unity
Yea, Write
Poetry, Spoken Word, Open Mic
Looking for new venue.
Next meeting: (No online details at present)
Events in Harrogate
Monthly Poetry Night
Bring your poems to read and share. Bring your friends to come and listen.
In the upstairs room at the Empress, 10 Church Square, Harrogate, HG1 4SP
. Contact Ray Black (see link). Admission free.
First Monday of the month, 7.30pm to 10pm
Next Meeting: 6th July, 2026. See links / Events page.
.
Links: Facebook
Events in Holmfirth
Poetry Readaround Honley Library
Join us for an inspiring evening of creativity. Everyone welcome. Crunch a biscuit, slurp some tea, admire the rhyming poetry! Take your turn to read aloud, or sit and listen to the sounds.
Honley Library, West Avenue, Honley, Holmfirth, HD9 6HF
Last Meeting: 26th May, 2026. 7 pm to 9 pm. £3 donation appreciated. See links / Events page.
.
Links: Poetry Read-around - Friends of Honley Library
Events in Huddersfield
Albert Poets
The Albert Poets’ readings are back. More events planned.
The Rat And Ratchet,40, Chapel Hill,Huddersfield,HD1 3EB
Next Meeting: 17th June 2026, 7.30 pm to 10 pm. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Grand Plans
Open mic spoken word - poetry, prose, creative non-fiction, travel & music writing, plays , comedy etc. 5 minute spots.
The Sair Inn, 139 Lane Top, Linthwaite, Huddersfield, United Kingdom, HD7 5SG
Every second Sunday. 6.15 pm to 8 pm.
Next Meeting 14th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Ink Spill
A growing poetry project which started with a monthly poetry night - half workshop, half open mic - but now hosts an annual festival and a podcast as well.
Head of Steam, Saint George's Square, Huddersfield HD1 1JB
Every third Friday, 7pm to 10pm.
Next Meeting 19th June, 2026, workshop theme 'Growth. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook, Instagram, Upcoming Ink Spill nights by Ink Spill | Eventbrite
Events in Hull
All Write Now
Valente, Lynda Harrison and Louise Beech for two hours of creative writing, sharing (optional) and discussion
5.30 to 7.30pm
Reading Room, Hull Central Library, Albion Street, Hull
Last Wednesday of every month
Links: Monthly Meeting at Hull Central Library
Events in Liversedge
Talking Zebras
We were founded in 2012 to promote enjoyment of the spoken word. At our core, we have our friendly meetings, lasting about 2 hours, held twice a month on a Saturday afternoon.
The Liversedge, 64 Leeds Road, Liversedge, WF15 6HX
Our meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Saturday in person, and on the 5th Saturday of the month on Zoom
2 pm for a 2.30 pm start to 4.45pm.
Next meeting in person: 20th June 2026. On Zoom: 29th August, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Talking Zebras (West Yorkshire) - Home, Facebook - The Liversedge, Talking Zebras | Facebook
Events in Masham
Happy House Poetry Night
Bring a poem or two - your own or your favourites Share them with your fellow poets & poetry lovers.
If you’d like you can bring something to drink (we’re not licensed).
The Gallery, 24 Market Place, Masham HG4 4EB
Next Meeting : 16th June 2026, 7.30pm to 9pm. See links / Events page.
Links: HAPPY HOUSE MASHAM - Happy House Masham Home,
Happy House Poetry Night - In Person Ticket Tickets, Tuesday, June 16 • 7:30 PM - 9 PM | Eventbrite
Events in Rotherham
Spread the Word
Spread the Word is about creating a safe space to share stories and begin to express those stories through talking, listening and writing. No prior experience is needed, and if you are thinking “I can’t write” then this space might be just for you.
Poetry Session with Vic Leeson
Summer location to be announced
Winter location: Mowbray Gardens Community Library, Herringthorpes Valley Road, Rotherham, S65 2UH
10am to 12 pm. See links / Events page.
Next meeting: 16th June, 2026 at the unannounced Summer location.
Spread the Word Poetry Writing Session with Jodie Platts
Kimberworth Library,125 Church St, Rotherham, S61 4EA
18th June, 2026,1:30pm - 3pm, free. See links / Events page.
Spread the Word Poetry Writing Session with Ray Hearne
Swinton Library, Station St, Mexborough, S64 8PZ
30th June 2 pm to 4 pm. Free. See links / Events page.
Open Mics
Wath Tap Pub, 49 High St, Rotherham, S63 7QB
Next meeting: 28th July, 2026, 8 pm to 10 pm. See links / Events page.
Cutler's Arms,29 Westgate, Rotherham S60 1BQ
Next Meeting 25th June 2026, 7 pm to 9 pm
Rotherham Minster, Church St, Rotherham S61 1
Next meeting: 27th August, 2026, 7 pm to 9 pm
Links: Spread the Word - Flux Rotherham (Go to the What's On page)
Events in Scarborough
Unrehearsed Mayhem - URM
Musical improvisation with added Poetry (laid back and chilled). Featuring: Elliott Pelucci, Graham Rhodes, Bryn Andrews
Craft Bar, 7 Northway, Scarborough, YO11 1JH
Third Sunday in the month, 7 pm to 9 pm.
Next Meeting: 28th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Wordsmiths Open Mic
Featuring local writers and poets. Bring your own writing and join in or just come along and listen
Craft Bar, 7 Northway, Scarborough, YO11 1JH
Third Sunday in the month, 5 pm to 7.30 pm.
Next Meeting: 21st June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Events in Sheffield
Bar One Poetry Open Mic
Two hours of creative writing, sharing (optional) and discussion with Valente, Lynda Harrison and Louise Beech.
Bar One, Sheffield Students' Union, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TG
Third Tuesday of every month, 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm,
Next meeting: will be in October when the new academic year begins. See links / Events page.
Links: Bar One Poetry Open Mic Night tickets | FoundrySU
The Words Are Coming
We’ve got 12 slots (with a very loose 5 minutes each) available so if anyone fancies popping down and having a go email openmic@srws.org.uk
Showroom Cinema, 15 Paternoster Row, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield, S1 2BX
Last Thursday of every month. 7 pm.
Next meeting: 30th July, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: The Words Are Coming | Showroom Cinema
Word Up
Alternative Spoken Word Night. Special Guests. Open mic slots on the night. Poetry with bite. Music with meaning. Voices that don't stay quiet. Hosted by Sheffield's own Darren Pickering (aka Goodnight D).
Crookes Club, Mulehouse Road, Sheffield, S10 1TD
Last Tuesday of every month, 8 pm to 11 pm.
Next meeting: 30th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Events | Crookes Club
Events in Sowerby Bridge
Soul Open Mic
We welcome all ability levels - from polished performers to absolute amateurs.
Bring what you've got - storytelling, poetry, comedy, music, spoken word, dance, cabaret and everything in between.
Soul Awareness Hub, Burnley Road, Sowerby Bridge, HX6 2TL
Last meeting: 9th January, 2026.
Links: EVENTS | SOUL Wellness Hub & Café
Events in Todmorden
GobSh!te
A literary community and monthly spoken word open mic at the iconic Golden Lion, Todmorden.
Golden Lion, Fielden Square, Todmorden, West Yorkshire, OL14 6LZ
Last Wednesday of the month, 7.30 pm start.
Next meeting: 17th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
Events in Wakefield
Busy Corner Cabaret
Music, poetry, theatre, cheap beer and more! Can there be more? There’s only one way to find out.
Come and perform on our open mic. Enjoy the guest acts. Meet interesting people. Hosted by Jimmy Andrex!
Brook House WMC, 221 Barnsley Road, Wakefield, WF1 5NU
Bi-monthly, last Thursday of the month. 7.00 pm to 9.30 pm. Next meeting: 30th July, 2026.
Links: Busy Corner Cabaret | Facebook
CoffeeWrite
Your Local Creative Coffee Shop
4 Marygate, Wakefield, WF1 1NX
Check the link for poetry events.
Links: CoffeeWrite Wakefield – Wakefield's Only Creative Coffee Shop
Jackanory
2 hour open mic spoken word event
CoActive Maker Space, The Ridings, Almhouse Lane, Wakefield, WF1 1DS
Contact: jackanory12 @ my.yahoo.com
Next meeting: 5th September, 2026. 2 pm to 4 pm. See links / Events page.
See the Friday prompts at Ko-Fi.com Jackanory
Links: Facebook, Jackanory (in the merrie city) - YouTube
Soul Shed
Music Poetry and comedy
WX Wakefield Exchange, Union Street, Wakefield, WF1 3AD
Monthly. Last meeting 2nd May 2026
Links: see updates at Welcome to Wakefield Exchange
Under The Lobby Lights
Poetry open mic night hosted by Tim Brooke and Faye Marshall
The Lobby 1867, Unity Hall, Westgate, Wakefield, WF1 1EP (Opposite the Theatre Royal)
Monthly; second Wednesday of the month.
Next meeting 10th June, 2026, from 7.30 pm. See links / Events page.
Links: Instagram
Events in York
Folk and Word
Welcomes writers and wordful acoustic musicians who'd like to share their work in a warm and appreciative environment. We'll invite a writer and a musician to be co-hosts each month, and they'll bring a guest to perform as well. Then the floor is open to everyone for an open mic session (sign up from 7 pm).
Black Swan, 23 Peasholme Green, York, YO1 7DE
Every third Thursday, sign up for 7 pm for a 7.30 pm start.
Next meeting: 16th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
The York Howlers
Spoken word open mic.
The Blue Boar, 5 Castlegate, York, YO1 9RN
Usually Every 2nd and 4th Thursday - but not until August 2026, due to changes.
7 pm sign up for a 7.30pm start.
Next meeting: 18th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Instagram
Events Outside Yorkshire
Some events outside Yorkshire, are closer to Leeds than some places in Yorkshire! Anyway, I have listed them here.
So far I have included events in Manchester and Salford.
Events in Manchester
The Barking Dogs Poetry
Open Mic poetry and spoken word night. Message us if you want to participate. Free entry. Full bar and food service
9A Higher Road, Urmston, Manchester.
Second Thursday of the month. 7.30 meet for poetry 8-9pm. Last (confirmed) meeting: 12th March 2026.
Links: Facebook
Hinterland Poets
Join us for a evening of open mic poetry hosted by Dominic Berry with a different Guest Poet each month!
Whether you're a seasoned poet or just looking to enjoy some spoken word, this event is for you.
Hinterland Alcohol-Free Bar and Café, 16-20 Turner Street, Manchester M4 1DZ
Poetry nights will take place on the 2nd Thursday of each month. 7pm.
Next Meeting: 11th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook - Hinterland, Hinterland Poe and the linkets + Open Mic Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
Poet's Nest Writing Club
'A friendly space to write together. We meet on the first Tuesday of the month to chat, share, hang out, and maybe get some writing done; you'll find us upstairs at Saison.'
Saison, 236 Burton Road, West Didsbury M20 2LW
Tuesday of the month. 6.00pm - 7.30pm. Cost £5. See link / above
Next meeting: 7th July, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Poet's Nest Writing Club Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite
The Space Poetic
Join us for some fun and focused writing before The Space Poetic open mic
Terrace NQ, 43 Thomas Street, Manchester M4 1NA
Typically held on the final Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Writing Group 6pm to 7pm.
Next meeting: 24th June 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: The Space Poetic Writing Club Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite, Instagram
Also see: New Year: New Poetry Workshops - by Rachael Hill
Speak Easy
Spoken Word @ Dulcimer, Chorlton. First Thursday of the month. Free, friendly and supportive. Poetry, fiction, performance. First-timers encouraged!
Dulcimer, 567 Wilbraham Rd, Chorlton, Manchester M21 0AE
Third Tuesday every month. 6.00pm - 7.45pm (doors open 5.40pm)
Next meeting: 2nd July, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook
The Word Central
An Open Mic Poetry and Spoken Word event hosted by Tony Curry. Presented by Flapjack Press & Manchester Libraries.
Manchester Central Library, Ground Floor Performance Space, Manchester M2 5PD
Third Tuesday every month. 6.00pm - 7.45pm (doors open 5.40pm)
Next meeting: 16th June, 2026. See links / Events page.
Links: Facebook, Word Central
Events in Salford
Verbose MCR
Verbose is one of Manchester's longest running spoken word events, having been born in the suburbs its current regular venue is Kings Arms, Salford.
Typically held on the final Monday of the month (see social media for details).
Open mic slots are 4 minutes and sign up is open the first week of every month here
The King's Arms, 11 Bloom Street, Salford, M3 6AN
Next Meeting 29th June, 2026, 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. See links / Events page.
Links: VerboseMCR, Instagram
Other useful links
Other sites that offer useful links to events that are currently on in the Leeds and Yorkshire area include:
The Birmingham Poetry Map – Google My Maps
You can find events in Birmingham from this Google Map. Created by BPN. (Birmingham Poetry Network). Bilal Akram has been very encouraging in the formation of the Manchester Poetry Map and my own. Thank you Bilal.
Eventbrite | Discover Poetry Events & Activities in Leeds
This links to a search for poetry events in Leeds, but you can use the search button for wherever you like
The Manchester Poetry Map – Google My Maps
You can find events in Manchester from this Google Map. I have used John Clifford's headings as a standard for my own map page.
This mostly covers music nights at present, but technically covers poetry nights, too
Open Mics in Sheffield | Facebook
Again mostly music events
Katya Keyzerova's inspiration for my own map page. Thank you Katya.
Yorkshire Poetry/Spoken Word Events | Facebook
Excellent Facebook version of this site, well worth checking out.
Online Open Mics
There is also a number of online open mics available to join. Here is the links to the ones I know about and some of which I have attended in the past. These may require an advance ticket, which may have small fee.
Cheltenham Poetry Festival - Online Events and Poetry Lounges
Fire&Dust Poetry | Twitter, Facebook | Linktree
Happy House Masham Events - 11 Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite
JournalExpressWrit - Open Mic (journalofexpressivewriting.com) (U.S.)
Ó Bhéal - Fáilte go dtí Ó Bhéal (obheal.ie) (Republic of Ireland)
Poetry Lit! - Online Reading Series Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
Speak the Word: online open mic night Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
Speak Your Truth ~ Spoke open mic Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
Talking Zebras (West Yorkshire) - Home
Every fifth Saturday of the month, a regular spoken word group based in Liversedge.
Online Poetry Workshops
Again, there are online poetry workshops, I will add to this list as I find them. Here is the links to the ones I know about. These will require an advance ticket, and have small fee.
Becky's Writing Hour Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite
With Becky May
Creative Workshops — BRAVE WORDS
Write Now monthly group
Weekly group on Wednesday morning via Zoom. Contact Otley Poets for more details. Also see Otley Poets
Poetry Workshop Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
With Rachael Hill
A to Z Finder
Index
If the town/city is outside of Leeds presume it is in Yorkshire unless stated.
A
Albert Poets - Huddersfield
Aletheia - Bradford
All Write Now - Hull
B
The Barking Dogs Poetry - Manchester (Outside Yorkshire)
The Barnsley Word Circle - Barnsley
Bar One Poetry Open Mic - Sheffield
Batley Poets Open Mic - Batley
Beehive Poets Open Mic - Bradford
Bone Down - Leeds
The Bookish Types - Leeds
Bradford Open Mic - Bradford
Brave Words - Leeds
The Brewery Taps - See Wordspace (Leeds)
Busy Corner Cabaret - Wakefield
C
Cardigan Arms Open Mic - Leeds
Chapel FM - Leeds
Chemic Tavern Open Mic - Leeds
Chemistry - Leeds
Cloth & Coal - Leeds
CoffeeWrite - Wakefield
The Comedy Café - Bradford
Crooner Club - Leeds
D
E
F
Flux Rotherham - Rotherham
Folk and Word - York
G
GobSh!te - Todmorden
Grand Plans - Huddersfield
The Grayston Unity - Halifax
H
Happy House Party - Masham
Heart Assembly Bar - See Soundbites (Leeds)
Hinterland Poets - Manchester (Outside Yorkshire)
Holding Patterns - See Poetic Off Licence (Leeds)
Honley Library - Holmfirth
Hyde Park Book Club - Leeds
I
Ink Spill - Huddersfield
J
Jackanory - Wakefield
K
L
Leeds Stanza - Leeds
M
Manthology - Leeds
Monthly Poetry Night - Harrogate
Moor Words Spoken Word Night - Leeds (Ilkley)
More Song - Bradford
N
The National Poetry Centre - Leeds
Northern Arts Centre, Café and Event Space - Leeds
Northern Voices - Dinnington
O
Open Mind - Leeds
Other Poets - See Otley Poets (Leeds)
Otley Poets - Leeds
Otley Open Mic - See Otley Poets (Leeds)
Otley Poetry Gym - See Otley Poets (Leeds)
Otley Stanza - Leeds
P
Pen Power! - Leeds
Poetic Off-Licence - Leeds
Poet's Nest Writing Club - Manchester (Outside Yorkshire)
Poets Talking Bollocks - Leeds
PTB - See Poets Talking Bollocks (Leeds)
The Purple Room - Leeds
Q
R
Rhubarb Book Club - See Rhubarb Poets (Bradford)
Rhubarb Open Mic - See Rhubarb Poets (Bradford)
Rhubarb Poets - Bradford
Roadhouse Basr & Bottles - Northern Voices (Dinnington)
Runcible Spoon - Leeds
S
Shared Stories - Brave Words (Leeds)
SisterVerse - Bradford
Soundbites - Leeds
Soul Open Mic - Sowerby Bridge
Soul Shed - Wakefield
The Space Poetic - Manchester (Outside Yorkshire)
Speak Easy (Chorlton) - Manchester (Outside Yorkshire)
Speakeasy (Spoken Word Society) - Leeds
Spread the Word - Rotherham
Storytelling - Brave Words (Leeds)
T
Talking Zebras - Liversedge
U
Under The Lobby Lights - Wakefield
Unrehearsed Mayhem (URM) - Scarborough
Urdu Shurdu - Bradford
V
Verbose MCR - Salford (Outside Yorkshire)
Vitello Lounge - Leeds
W
Well Spoken - Doncaster
The Word Central - Manchester (Outside Yorkshire)
The Words Are Coming - Sheffield
Wordsmiths Open Mic - Scarborough
Wordspace - Leeds
Word Up - Sheffield
Write Now - See Northern Arts Centre, Café and Event Space (Leeds)
X
Y
Yea, Write - Halifax
The York Howlers - York
Z
Please Read
If you would like to see your open mic or any poetry or spoken word event listed on this page please do get in touch. Equally if you would like me to remove the information please do get in touch.
If you spot any inaccuracies, please get in touch and I will put them right.
This page is run purely for the love of poetry so all listings are free with no strings attached.
Please note this website has no direct link to any of the events included, so you attend at your own risk. This said you might see me at one of them, if so, please do say, 'hello'!
If the event does not take place there really is nothing I can do about it (sorry!). I recommend that you attempt to contact the event via the direct link on the night if possible.
Many thanks to Ian Harker and Keith Fenton for the information to get this list started.
Thank you very much to every one who has offered updates and suggestions so far, especially Agnieszka Stachura, Bilal Akram, Ella, Joe, John Clifford and Keith (again).
Very many thanks to all the event organisers who have trusted me with their information and allowed me to post it on this page.
Most recent update: 7th June, 2026