Poetry Events Calendar
in Leeds and Beyond!
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Writing the North: How the Leeds Lit Fest Continues to Showcase Leeds as an Important Literary City – Column By Keith Fenton
Each month Keith Fenton, a Leeds-based performance poet, broadcaster and host of Poets Talking Bollocks podcast, explores the events, people and debates shaping literary culture in the North. This month, he reflects on an amazing literary week in Leeds as Leeds Lit Fest took over venues across the city with poetry readings, book events and creative workshops.
Image: Keith on stage at Poets Talking Bollocks when it closed the Leeds Lit Fest this year at Hyde Park Book Club. Image Credit: Natasha Dobson see @n_j_dphotography
(Many thanks to Natasha for the use of this photograph, and for the use of the photograph for Bob and Poetry's Instagram account.)
PUBLISHED
Storytelling @ Terminus (Meanwood Brewery)
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.
We set a loose theme and create a relaxed, conversational space to chat, share stories and laugh together. By the end of the night you’ll have travelled through tales, empathy and connection to feel like a group of friends in someone’s living room.
Our storytelling nights are pay-what-you-can.
7.30 pm to 9.30 pm
Terminus Tap Room and Bottle Shop
(The Meanwood Brewery)
Leeds
LS6 4HY
PUBLISHED
The Barnsley Word Circle
The Barnsley Word Circle - First meeting!
Guest Poet: Amanda Crundall
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. Hosted by Mac McKenzie
7 pm to 9.30 pm
Friendly, supportive and alcohol free. Tea, coffee, and biscuits available.
Staincross Christian Fellowship Church Hall
21 Sparks Lane
Staincross
S75 8AA
PUBLISHED
That's what she said -Cliterature Fest (poetry fundraiser)
That's What She Said -Charity Cliterature Poetry Event. (18+)
That's what she said is a powerful poetry collective of women who each have their own story to tell. Performing Cliterature for £ =Refuge
Line-up:
Molly Hope (Molly Smith)
Katie Lou Clarkson
Julie Baird / Radical Annie
Sarah - Her Vagisty The Worrier Queen
Anne-Marie Draycott
Sanah Akhtar
plus open mic
Expect Cliterature spoken word performances from our 6 member strong collective. Sharing experiences through spoken word, including a wide range of feminist topics including: domestic abuse, sexual violence, the menopause, body image, health, sex, beauty standards, parenting, being a parent-carer, mental health, smashing stereotypes and raising every day experiences of the patriarchy. Our aim is sharing solidarity whilst raising money.
There will also be a 1 hour open mic of feminist Cliterature to end the evening (please msg Molly 07904991547 to secure your 5 min slot in advance if you fit our theme)
We will be upstairs (there is no lift, apologies)
Advisory notice: 18+ event. Contains swearing, poems of sexual nature, feminist topics and themes of domestic abuse and sexual violence. If you would find this content triggering you may not wish to come to our event.
Ticket sales will go to the charity Refuge; the largest domestic abuse organisation in the UK.
The charity
Refuge, the UK's largest specialist domestic abuse organisation Refuge is. On any given day our services support thousands of women and their children, helping them to overcome the physical, emotional, financial and logistical impacts of abuse and rebuild their lives — free from fear. refuge.org.uk
Cost: free (low income / concession), £9.37 (general admission), or £16.96 (super-supporter)
Click link below to buy a ticket from Eventbrite.
Doors: 2.30 pm, event starts 3 pm, ends 6.30 pm. You can enjoy alcoholic and soft drinks from the bar throughout.
Cardigan Arms
364 Kirkstall Rd
Burley
Leeds
LS4 2HQ
PUBLISHED
Poets Talking Bollocks
Takeover Special!
It's a very exciting Poets Talking Bollocks this Sunday at The Chemic Tavern - no showcasers on the poster as @maddi 🫶 The Poetic Off Licence / The Domino's Poetic Off-Licence crew are doing a takeover and she will be providing three showcasers for us....
Poets Talking Bollocks hosted by local poet Keith Fenton since February 2024, has developed its own growing and vibrant community, and given rise to connections and collaborations across the northern poetry scene and, thanks to a policy of bringing showcasers through from within the community, has been a springboard for developing poets across the region.
Despite its raucous, "bear-pit" vibe, it boasts a knowing, welcoming and poetry-daft crowd which combines irreverent Northern humour with real support and compassion for readers who are at their most vulnerable.
Open mic spots must be booked in advance by contacting Keith by email at keithfenton32@hotmail.com or via the Instagram @poets_talking_bollocks (See link below)
Free
Monthly, second Sunday of the month, 2.15 pm to 5.15 pm
The Chemic Tavern, (Woodhouse)
9, Johnson Street
Leeds
LS6 2NG
PUBLISHED
Grand Plans
Open mic Spoken Word - poetry, prose, creative non-fiction, travel & music writing, plays, comedy, etc...
Guest poet: Jo Haslam
Hosted by Sarah L Dixon
Pay as you feel. Spots 10 x 4 minutes
6.15 pm to 8 pm
139 Lane Top,
Linthwaite,
Huddersfield,
United Kingdom,
HD7 5SG
(The date is confirmed, new poster to follow)
PUBLISHED
Verbal Gerbil Spoken Word Cabaret with LIVE Improvised Jazz
Special Guests: Ichabod Wolf and David Viney
plus host Stan Skinny and Franc & I
Tickets are £5 VG at Alder will feature special guest acts from poetry and music plus the legendary Money Plant Slam. Come sign up to compete in the slam by completing the online form (click link below).
Tickets £5
7.30 pm
Alder Bar
Percy Street
Sheffield
S3 8BT
PUBLISHED
Brave Words - Write Club
Inclusive, energetic poetry writing workshops run by Brave Words Artistic Director, Chris Singleton.
Each week we take part in a quick warmup before delving into multiple creative prompts designed to get your brain firing and your pen flying. We aim for you to leave the session with multiple first drafts that you can develop later in your own time.
Our workshops are open to all levels of writer, from first-time to jobbing professionals. Write Club is the perfect setting to get creative in a community dedicated to their craft, and supporting each other's work.
MONDAYs
11:00 am to 12.30 pm
Ages 18+
FREE
Space2
The Old Fire Station,
Gipton Approach,
Leeds
LS9 6NL
PUBLISHED
Soundbites
SOUNDBITES – Monthly Poetry Open Mic
Live in the Assembly Bar + Kitchen!
Readings by a different local published poet each month.
OPEN MIC
We supply the mic – you supply the poetry
Put your name down for a 4 minute slot (first come, first served) or just come along and listen.
Bring your poem (1 per person) about Leeds to read and share.
First timers or experienced, all are welcome.
Everyone welcome. Free (donation appreciated)
Open mic name listing from 6.30 pm
Event begins with guest poet at 7.00 pm
Heart Assembly Bar + Kitchen,
Headingley Arts Centre
9 Bennett Road
Leeds
LS6 3HN
PUBLISHED
Cardigan Arms Open Mic
Every second and fourth Monday of the month.
Hosted by a rotating roster of local songwriters, the Open Mic at the Cardigan Arms is a welcoming and inclusive space for performers looking to try something new, old, borrowed or blue or none of the above.
All performance types welcome. Free half pint for all performers.
Performance slots can be booked in advance via events@cardiganarms.co.uk.
There will also always be space for those turning up on the door - just make sure you get down for 7:30pm if you'd like to secure your preferred time slot!
(Though this is primarily a music open mic, spoken word is welcome, too - Bob.)
7.30 pm
Cardigan Arms
364 Kirkstall Rd,
Burley,
Leeds
LS4 2HQ
PUBLISHED
The Poetry Edit
Got a poem that’s almost working but not quite there, or maybe that just needs some polishing? Bring it along to The Poetry Edit
Got a poem that’s almost working but not quite there, or maybe that just needs some polishing?
Bring it along to The Poetry Edit at Manchester Cathedral to sculpt, cut and hone your work while learning helpful tips about editing and redrafting.
We will be running two sessions in August, and spaces are limited to 10 in each group:
Please register on Eventbrite.
Please email your poem in advance to tom.branfoot@manchestercathedral.org
This event is part of The Sun Inn Poets project, follow us on Instagram @thesuninnpoets to find out more.
Free
10 am to 12 pm
Manchester Cathedral,
Victoria Street
Manchester
M3 1SX
PUBLISHED
Spread the Word Poetry Session with Vic Leeson
Join us in our creative writing sessions dedicated to nurturing and celebrating stories through listening, writing and sharing.
Each of the sessions will include a space to talk to each other as well as some really gentle creative writing exercises to help us put pen to paper. You may write a few words, you may write a full poem or even a paragraph describing something important to you. We can allow some time and space to share our writing if we choose to and we can also share how it is to be in a space sharing our stories and writing on the page.
This session regularly takes places at Mowbray Gardens Library during the winter months. However in the warmer weather, we're exploring sites across Rotherham!
No ticket necessary, just turn up!
If you can't make this session, check out our what's on page for future dates.
Free
10 am to 12 pm
Mowbray Gardens Community Library
Herringthorpes Valley Road
Rotherham
S65 2UH
Note: Photograph by James Mulkeen.
PUBLISHED
Keighley Poets Open Mic
Poetry read around and feedback. Monthly writing prompt for the next meeting.
We had quite a discussion about the prompt/theme for this month and it is 'Anything Goes', with the invitation to write a sonnet if you would like.
3rd Tuesday of the month
Next meeting: 15th September, 2026
Free
6 pm to 7.30 pm
Keighley Library,
North St,
Keighley
BD21 3SX
(Picture not linked to event)
PUBLISHED
Folk & Word
FOLK & WORD
A free open mic session for all kinds of spoken word & acoustic music in York
All welcome. SAFE, DIVERSE AND FRIENDLY. Entry is free with a purchase from the bar.
Sign up from 7 pm.
Welcoming writers and wordful acoustic musicians with original material who'd like to share their work in a WARM, APPRECIATIVE ENVIRONMENT.
We'll invite a writer and a musician to play host 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).
Bring a poem, a song, some new jokes, a monologue, a guitar, a voice. Try out fresh material or revive an old fave. Or just sit and enjoy the others!
Sign up at 7 pm starts at 7.30 pm
Black Swan,
23 Peasholme Green,
York
YO1 7DE
PUBLISHED
Word Central
Presented by Flapjack Press & Manchester Libraries
Open Mic Poetry and Spoken Word
With special guest Rosa Wright
Host Tony Curry.
Book your open mic slot from noon on 1st September via mail@flapjackpress.co.uk
N.B. Open mic slots are 3 minutes per performer - it is essential that you stay within this timeframe
Performance slots are allocated on a 'first come, first served' basis from the stated booking time
If they are already filled you will be offered a place on the reserve list
A free event
6.00 pm - 7.45 pm
(doors open 5.45 pm)
Ground Floor Performance Space
Manchester Central Library,
St Peter's Square,
Manchester M2 5PD
PUBLISHED
Crossgates Recreational Hall Open Mic
Open Mic Night
Every Tuesday from 8 pm
All sorts of talent and genres welcome, from beginners to seasoned players
All music appreciated, from George Formby to Miley Cyrus.
Sing, read poetry, do comedy stand up.
We welcome anyone willing to entertain
Or if you'd rather just come along and listen an audience is always appreciated.
For this event everyone is welcome, you don't need to be a member of the club.
8 pm on
Crossgate and District Recreational Hall
Popular Avenue
Off Austhorpe Road
Crossgates
Leeds
LS15 8EB
PUBLISHED
Happy House Poetry Night
Bring a poem or two - your own or your favourites
Share them with your fellow poets & poetry lovers
We’re looking forward to welcoming you to the Happy House, Masham
If you’d like you can bring something to drink (we’re not licensed)
This is a smallish room which can only hold 10 people so this ticket only admits ONE
7.30 pm to 9 pm
The Gallery
24 Market Place
Masham
HG4 4EB
PUBLISHED
Poetry Workshop
By Rachael Hill
Fun and friendly online creative writing workshops every month in 2026
These workshops are an invitation to pause and make time to play with poetry, write and connect with other writers, and nourish and expand your creative practice.
Join me on the 3rd Tuesday of each month for an hour and a half of exploratory writing fun.
Each workshop will be themed and we’ll look at three poems on that theme by poets we love, and have a go at some our own writing in response. Each one will open with a short freewrite, followed by our first poem, a short discussion, and an associated writing exercise, our second poem, discussion, and writing exercise, and our third poem, discussion, and writing exercise.
I’ll be writing along with you and there’ll be an optional sharing circle at the end for us to read out anything we’ve written, or share any other thoughts.
You’ll finish each workshop with three drafts to take away and work on, and some fresh ideas and inspiration.
6.30 pm to 8 pm
Online event
PUBLISHED
Gobbledegook at the Puzzle
A new monthly spoken word evening hosted by Welsh poet Rob Edwards at the Puzzle Hall Community Pub.
Poetry. Comedy. Storytelling. Bardic ramblings. Beautiful madness.
10 minute performance slots.
All voices welcome — first timers and seasoned performers alike.
Gobbledegook usually lands on every 3rd Tuesday of the month but a long standing booking means that in September it has moved to the Wednesday. Normal service resumes next month.
Come along and help start something special.
Free
8 pm to 11 pm
Puzzle Hall Community Pub
21 Hollins Mill Lane
Sowerby Bridge
HX6 2RF
(Poster is for last month's event)
PUBLISHED
SOUL Open Mic & Social Fridays
We're excited to be launching a brand new weekly Open Mic & Social Night at SOUL Wellness Hub & Café.
As the evenings stay warm, we're bringing our community together outdoors in the Eden Garden for relaxed Friday nights filled with creativity, conversation and connection.
✨ For the first time ever, Koko will be setting up our outdoor stage – a beautiful setting to enjoy long summer evenings under the sunset and garden lights. And of course, we can always return to the cafe space if the weather shifts.
Whether you'd like to perform or simply soak up the atmosphere, everyone is welcome.
🎶 All forms of creative expression are encouraged, including:
• Music • Spoken word • Poetry• Storytelling• Comedy• Dance• Or anything else you'd like to share.
Not performing? Come along anyway. We're hoping this becomes a regular Friday night rhythm at SOUL – a chance to meet new people, catch up with familiar faces and enjoy a relaxed evening together. We don't currently have another regular social gathering like this, so we'd love to see it become something special for our community.
🍴 We'll also be launching some new food offerings alongside special drinks promotions, so it's the perfect space to settle in for the evening.
🎟️ Throughout the night we'll also be running a raffle and gratefully accepting donations to support SOUL's Community Interest Company. Like many independent community spaces, the quieter summer months can be challenging. Every drink ordered, meal enjoyed, raffle ticket bought and donation made helps us continue creating a space for wellbeing, creativity and connection here in the Calder Valley.
Bring your friends, bring your family, bring your instrument, your poems, your stories, or simply bring yourself.
🗓 Every Friday
🕖 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm
SOUL Wellness Hub & Café - Eden Garden
Burnley Road
Sowerby Bridge
HX6 2TL
We can't wait to welcome you💛
PUBLISHED
Ink Spill open mic and workshop
Kicking off our 5th year, Ink Spill #46 promises to be a great start! This month's theme: Autumn.
You're invited to an evening filled with creativity, community and poetry at the Head of Steam, Huddersfield - with the night divided into a poetry workshop and open mic event. Whether you're at the beginning of your journey or a seasoned poet, this event is open to all. So grab your pen, bring your thoughts, and let your words spill onto the page!
During the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to write and develop your poetry - inspired by the theme. You'll be introduced to a variety of styles and techniques that will be supported by a variety of activities by the workshop host.
Following the workshop and a short hydration break, the stage is yours! Step up to the mic and share your writing with our supportive and enthusiastic community. Or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the performances of other members.
Whether you're seeking inspiration, looking to connect with fellow poets, or simply want to spend an evening surrounded by poetry, Ink Spill is the place to be!
Free
7 pm to 10 pm
The Head of Steam,
Saint George's Square
Huddersfield
HD1 1JB
PUBLISHED
Write Now
Discover the joy of storytelling in our friendly creative writing group Write Now.
No booking is required. Just turn up and start your creative journey with us.
The group meets twice a month to fuel inspiration and nurture your writing skills. With no pressure and all skill levels welcome, you'll find a supportive community where your writing voice can truly shine.
Next days 18th September, 2026.
PAYF donations taken on the day.
2 pm to 4 pm
Northlight Arts Centre
31 Potternewton Lane
Leeds
LS7 3LW
PUBLISHED
Talking Zebras
Do you enjoy Poetry / Prose / Short Stories / The Spoken Word?
Do you like Listening / Reading / Performing?
Then why not join our friendly, regular group ...
Talking Zebras
Turn up and say hello to the herd!
All are very welcome
2.15 pm till 4.45 pm
The Bobbin Carrier
Centurion Way
Cleckheaton
BD19 3QB
Note new venue!
The pub is about 20 minutes walk from Cleckheaton, it is situated near the chain bar roundabout (junction 26 of the M62) and very close to bus stops for the 268 route.
PUBLISHED
The Poetic Off-Licence
A space for poetry & live music in Leeds
This Monday and every other Monday after!
No step free access
18+
Contact: thepoeticofflicence@gmail.com
Alternating Mondays.
No entry fee
From 6 pm to 10 pm
Holding Patterns
2A Albion Place,
LS1 6JL
PUBLISHED
The Sun Inn Poets – Reading & Open Mic
An evening of poetry and performance, showcasing writing by the Sun Inn Poets and any local writers who wish to take part.
An evening of poetry and performance, showcasing writing by the Sun Inn Poets and any local writers who wish to take part.
If you would like to read, please contact tom.branfoot@manchestercathedral.org and specify whether you would prefer a 5 or 10 minute slot to perform your poetry in this awe-inspiring venue.
Please be aware that there are a limited number of slots, first come first served.
Free
6.30 pm to 8.30 pm
Manchester Cathedral
Victoria Street
Manchester M3 1SX
PUBLISHED
Runcible Spoon Open Mic
Runcible is back again with talented poets and headliners. Carrier Arms is a lovely pub with great atmosphere and friendly people. Come and share your writing or just come and listen.
Host Kathleen Strafford
Starring:
Al Wilko
plus open mic
Free
7 pm onwards
Carriers Arms
17 Glen Road
Morley
Leeds
LS27 9EY
PUBLISHED
The York Howlers
Spoken Word Open Mic. Sign up on the night.
Please note Paul will be hosting the second Howlers of the month on TUESDAY 22nd. From this Howlers onwards our normal schedule will return with a slight tweek. We will be at the Blue Boar on the 2nd and 4th TUESDAY of the month. We're sorry if this disrupts your poetry schedule but it means we will be able to return to our favourite area of the pub!
Can't wait to see you all there, Happy Howling
Sign up on arrival.
7.30 pm
The Blue Boar
5 Castlegate,
York
YO1 9RN
PUBLISHED
Gobsh!te
Hello you beauties! 🎉
We’re very happy to announce our next event, will take place September 23rd upstairs at the Golden Lion. As always, we’re looking forward to hearing from our wonderful troupe of open mic performers and our supportive audience members.
As always, arrive between 7:00 pm – 7:15 pm if you’d like to sign up for a 4–5 minute set (time slots will depend on numbers). See you there!!
Upstairs @ The Golden Lion
Fielden Square
Todmorden
OL14 6LZ
PUBLISHED
The Words Are Coming
Our next open mic is on Thursday 24th September @ 7pm.
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
7 pm
Showroom Cinema
15 Paternoster Row,
Sheffield City Centre
Sheffield
S1 2BX
PUBLISHED
The Trades Open Mic
Hosted by Sarah Courtney. Everyone is welcome, including unaccompanied singers, wordsmiths and all musical styles.
Arrive 7pm to sign up for a slot. Or just come to listen!
Free Admission
Doors open 7.30pm | Arrive 7pm to sign up for a slot
14+ seated event
Trades Club
Holme Street
Hebden Bridge
HX7 8EE
PUBLISHED
Pen Power! Creative Writing Workshops
Overview
Unlock your voice with artist D3. A cozy writing workshop for all levels. 15 spots max—grab the 2-for-1 Buddy Deal today!
Ready to stop staring at the blank page and start flowing?
Whether you’re a secret poet, a bathroom singer of words, or just someone who wants to find more confidence in how they speak and write—this is for you. Led by D3, a professional working artist who lives and breathes the craft, this workshop isn't about "perfect" grammar; it's about finding your unique voice.
Join a small, supportive group (we cap it at 15!) for a session of creative exploration, inspiration, and real-world writing techniques.
From £8.83 to £15
6.30 pm - 8 pm
The Wardrobe,
6 St. Peters Square,
Leeds.
LS9 26th Feb
PUBLISHED
The Living Room Sessions - Poetry Open Mic
Keiron Higgins and Toria Garbutt present “The Living Room Sessions” a night of poetry open to all styles and identities, seasoned or just starting out. Even if you don't write, just turn to hear some great poets entice you with the words they weave.
Last Thursday of the month
Free
7 pm
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)
PUBLISHED
SisterVerse Open Mic 2026
We are back!!! 2026
Are you ready to share your poetry? To plant your new seeds.
A female-only open mic space to share your voice, your poetry.
The vibe is just awesome. Join us in person for the 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.
We bring snacks and drinks, feel free to bring a contribution too.
(6.45 pm doors open) 7 pm to 9 pm
City Library Bradford
9 Aldermanbury
Centenary Square
Bradford
BD1 1SD
PUBLISHED
Chemistry 27: Kim Moore and Jane Sharp The theme is Co for Cobalt.
Chemistry returns to the Chemic on Friday 25th September with another night of poetry and spoken word, two brilliant headliners and our usual amazing open mic. The headliners Kim Moore and Jane Sharp. The always optional theme is Co for Cobalt.
The events are themed on the elements of the periodic table. If you dare attempt the theme, it's Cobalt. The theme is entirely optional, but we hope you might use it as a creative prompt to come up with some new work to reveal on the night.
If you want to sign up for the open mic, just ask host Joe Williams for a slot when you arrive. Open mic readers are drawn in a random order from the Box of Mystery, and we’ll keep going till the box is empty. We welcome everyone from first-timers to veteran performers, so if you want to give it a go, please do. Please stick to the time limit of 3 minutes (which includes any introductions and other waffle).
Entry is on a pay-as-you-feel basis. If you don’t feel able to pay anything, that’s fine. The guest poets will also have books for sale. No need to book a ticket, just turn up.
Doors at 7.15 pm for a 7.45 pm start. I hope you can join us!
The Chemic Tavern
9 Johnston Street
Leeds
LS6 2NG
PUBLISHED
First Draughts: Poetry & Spoken Word Monthly at Hop Hideout
Introducing: First Draughts
Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or someone who’s been scribbling in a journal and waiting for the right moment to share, this is for you.
First Draughts is all about community, craft (beer and verse!), and creating a space that is genuinely open, friendly, and supportive. No judgment—just good vibes and great lines.
• Where: Hop Hideout
• Guest Host: tbc
How to Get Involved 🎟️
Want the mic? 🎤
To secure your spot on stage, slide into the DMs of @HopHideout Or send an email (contact on our Instagram). Whether it’s a poem, spoken word, a short story, or a rhythmic rant, we want to hear it.
Want to listen? 🍻
Audience tickets are FREE, but space is limited! Please grab your ticket via Eventbrite (click below) so we can keep track of numbers. We've also added a donation option if you feel you would like to support. Any donations raised will go to the event itself, for example, in the future we'd like to book a headline slot and make that paid.
Open mic slots are available now.
8 pm to 10 pm
Hop Hideout
#G11
22 Cambridge Street
Leah’s Yard
Sheffield City Centre
S1 4HP
PUBLISHED
Ebor Poets
📢Introducing EBOR POETS ✍🏼💡☀️
a brand new poetry group debuting at the Knavesmire café on weekends every month!
Bring your scrapbook poetry, published works, phone note ramblings and your beautiful selves to the launch of a lovely little community down by the beautiful leafy greenery of the sunny Knavesmire...just in time for summer!☀️
Next date: Saturday 26th September, 2026
Place: Knavesmire café ☕
SIGN UP LOVELIES🌸🤍🩷
Free
1 pm-4 pm
The Knavesmire
Albemarle Rd
York
YO23 1ER
PUBLISHED
Say Owt Slam
The next Say Owt Slam is 26th Sept at The Crescent Community Venue
Say Owt Slam is a raucous evening of poet vs poet in a fun and frantic night of verse. Poets have three minutes to wow YOU the audience. Expect an evening with humour and heart, comedy and charisma, stories and sizzling spoken word!
Fancy slamming? Slots open 1st August 2026. Please not we prioritise people living in York and the surrounding villages, and people who haven't performed in a previous slam.
E-mail info@sayowt.co.uk for a slot.
Plus special guests straight outta Bradford: Kirsty Taylor and KG.
Tickets £6 or 11, available here (plus booking fee). All tickets £15 on the door. (Click below)
Doors 7.30pm, show starts 7.45pm
The Crescent Community Venue
8 The Crescent,
York
YO24 1AW
PUBLISHED
Becky's Writing Hour (Online)
A generative online poetry workshop in which we'll look at a variety of poems as a stepping off point to create our own.
Want to set aside time for your writing?
Becky’s writing hours, held online twice a month on the second Tuesday and last Sunday of the month, are designed to do just that.
Write at your desk, from your sofa, tucked up in bed – whatever works.
The format is simple: I’ll bring a warm up exercise and a series of poems and prompts so that you can dedicate as much of the hour to writing as possible.
This is a generative workshop so you’ll leave with a notebook full of seeds that you can take away with you to water and grow.
Feel free to come as often or as little as you’d like.
So price isn’t a barrier I am offering two options - general admission & concessions (for over 60s, students and those on benefits).
Hope to see you soon!
7 pm to 8 pm
Online
Please click the link to find out more details.
PUBLISHED
Odd Open Mic Poetry
There'll be plenty of space on the Open Mic, plus some poetry games and hi-jinks, quizzes, a raffle and a guest appearance by Lindur lashes of Rabbiting On fame, promoting her new collection - Hot Mess in a Posh Dress.
Hosted by Mike O'Brien of 60 Odd Poets
Free
3 pm to 6 pm
Fox Gallery
St Leger Homes of Doncaster Limited,
College Road,
Mexborough,
S64 9JP
(Poster is for last month's event)
PUBLISHED
Verbose MCR
One of Manchester’s longest running spoken word events, Verbose, returns on Monday 24th August, 2026 at the Kings Arms.
Headliners:
Kim Moore
Dean Wilson
Kate Noakes
Kim Moore’s third poetry collection The House of Broken Things was published by Corsair in May 2026. Her second collection All the Men I Never Married (Seren, 2021) won the 2022 Forward Prize for Best Collection. In 2026 she was awarded a Cholmondeley Award. She is a Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing at Manchester Metropolitan University and the Deputy Programme Leader of the MA and MfA in Creative Writing.
Dean Wilson is a compulsive rhymer from Withernsea on the Yorkshire coast. He’s best known for his Pebble Of The Day social media hit which he started in 2019.
His poetry collections Sometimes I’m So Happy I’m Not Safe On The Streets and Take Me Up The Lighthouse are published by Wrecking Ball Press.
He’s made over sixty poetry films with playwright and filmmaker Dave Lee including the documentaries East Coast Fever, Dean World and a cartoon strip film Jiggery Blokery with Lee Healey from Viz.
He’s been performing live since the nineties and his live album Sometimes I’m So Happy I’m Not Safe On The Stage and his audiobook An Uncharacteristically Lengthy Poem By Dean Wilson About Interpretive Dance are out on the Irregular Patterns record label.
His latest book ASK came out in June and is published by DeanWorld.org and a compilation book A Decade Of Dean is out soon.
Kate Noakes lives in Bristol, and has a PhD from the University of Reading. Her new book arising from this work is Sublime Lungs (Two Rivers Press, 2026). Bog Queens, a pamphlet from Green Bottle Press was also published this year.
Kate was elected to the Welsh Academy in 2011. Her website, www.boomslangpoetry.blogspot.com, is archived by the National Library of Wales.
She is one third of poetry performance group, Braid (www.braidpoetry.com), leads the Lyra Poetry Festival’s poetry walk in Clifton, and curates the poetry events for the Clifton Literature Festival.
Kate was founding president of Paris Lit Up. She acted as a trustee for Spread the Word (2018-2022). Kate has taught creative writing for Paris Lit Up, Oxford University, the Poetry School, and Malika’s Poetry Kitchen, and she offers one to one poetry coaching.
To enter the draw for an open mic slot, please email us on verbosemanchester@gmail.com between 1st and 6th September
Doors open: 7.15 pm
Event: 7.30 pm - 9.30 pm
The King's Arms
11 Bloom Street
Salford
M3 6AN
Kim Moore photo credit – Rebecca Higson
PUBLISHED
Spread the Word – Open Mic Night
This regular event takes places in venues across Rotherham, the June event will take place at The Cutlers Arms on Westgate. It's open to poets of all abilities and you're welcome to come and listen or perform your poetry.
You will be able to perform your own poetry at the Open Mic Night! This opportunity is for all abilities, we hope everyone feels comfortable enough to share in our space. As you arrive, let the host know you would like to perform.
General admission tickets are pay as you feel - £5/£3/Free tickets available.
Choose whichever selection you are comfortable with at: TICKET LINK
Refreshments (including alcoholic drinks) will be available at the venue.
Please note - This venue is old, so has some limitations. There are male and female toilets available, but there is no disabled toilet available. Access into the venue is step free. There is a RMBC owned car park next door, parking is free after 6pm. For any questions about access, please contact hello@fluxrotherham.org.uk
Spread The Word is a poetry project run by Flux Rotherham, including poetry writing sessions and open mics.
8 pm to 10 pm
Cutler's Arms
29 Westgate,
Rotherham
S60 1BQ
Note: Photo by James Mulkeen.
PUBLISHED
Spread the Word Poetry Open Mic - Wath Tap
Open Mic
No ticket necessary, just turn up! All abilities are welcome, and everyone is invited to share or simply listen in.
Spread The Word is a poetry project that creates a safe space to share. We share our, and each other's, stories through talking, listening and writing.
Free.
8 pm to 10 pm
Wath Tap Pub
49 High St
Rotherham
S63 7QB
Picture taken by James Mulkeen.
PUBLISHED
Word Up!
WORD UP
NO FILTER> NO APOLOGIES.
Alternative Spoken Word Night
Special Guest
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)
8 pm to 11 pm
Every last Tuesday of the month
Crookes Club
Mulehouse Road
Sheffield
S10 1TD
PUBLISHED
Verbal Gerbil
Verbal Gerbil is a spoken word night with live improvised jazz.
This month we have Teah Lewis, and improvised music from Phoebe Niamh
To sign up for the open mic please email verbalgerbil1@gmail.com or complete this online form
(Click link below)
Pay what you feel
7.45 pm start
Hagglers Corner
Cookes
Queens Road
Sheffield
S2 4DU
PUBLISHED
Northern Voices - Poetry at the Roadhouse
Roadhouse & Bar presents:
Poetry at the Roundhouse
Open Mic
Raise Your Northern Voices
Storytellers
Spoken Word
Prose
Poetry
ALL WELCOME. - wether you're performing or simply listening.
New performers welcome.
"It's better than watching sh*ton the telly"
Last Wednesday in the month
Free Entry.
from 7.30 pm to 10 pm
Roadhouse Bar & Bottles
25 Laughton Road
Dinnington
S25 2PN
(The poster is for last month's event)
PUBLISHED
The Space Poetic Writing Club
Join us for some fun and focused writing before The Space Poetic open mic :)
Space Poetic Writing Club.
Part of The Space Poetic's mission is building community, and what better way to do that amongst poets than spend a fun and relaxed hour writing with friends.
I'll bring some poems I love, and a few prompts you can use if you need something to get you started.
Your welcome to bring something you're already working on, or a fresh page waiting to be filled with new ideas.
There'll be the option to chat, or to just get your head down - the room is big enough that we can split into small groups if chatty/less chatty people want.
Doesn't matter if you've been writing since you could first hold a pen, or never written at all, this is a safe space to come hang out and enjoy being creative together.
And if you're feeling brave you can share your piece (or any piece!) in The Space Poetic open mic afterwards!
6 to 7 pm
Terrace NQ
43 Thomas Street
Manchester M4 1NA
PUBLISHED
Rhubarb at The Triangle
Rhubarb #95 Wednesday 30 September 2026
Guest: Alexandra Corrin-Tachibana + open mic
As we ease into autumn cosiness and cable knits at Rhubarb HQ, we're so excited to welcome Alexandra Corrin-Tachibana as our September guest reader with her new collection Skinship (Salt 2026). We'll also have our usual open mic for poetry & prose in the first half, so get scribbling and bring us your latest musings - we love hearing new work. Or just come to listen, if you prefer.
About our guest reader:
Alexandra Corrin-Tachibana is a Forward Prize shortlisted poet and author of Sing me Down from the Dark (Salt, 2022) and Skinship (Salt, 2026). She has Masters degrees in Writing Poetry and in Japanese Language and Culture and lived in Japan for 10 years. Her poetry often addresses issues of cross-cultural relationships and communication. She lives in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne and taught at Newcastle University for 13 years.
Rhubarb welcomes poetry & prose readers on an open mic in the first half, followed by a headline set from an invited guest. If you want to read on the open mic, please book with us when you arrive. We generally offer 10 open mic slots of up to 4 minutes (squeezing in a few extras when we can). As always, listeners are also very welcome
Pay-as-you-feel.
7 pm for 7.30 pm start.
The Triangle,
47 Bradford Rd
Shipley
BD18 3DS
PUBLISHED
The Space Poetic
The Space Poetic is a monthly poetry gallery and open mic, held on the last Wednesday of the month at Terrace in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
And there's a Space Poetic writing club that meets for an hour to write together before the event (6-7 pm).
7.30 pm to 9.30 pm
Terrace NQ
43 Thomas Street
Manchester
M4 1NA
PUBLISHED
More Song Workshop
A workshop facilitated by Abhijeet Singh to raise funds for More Song. October 1st
Join us for an afternoon workshop from 2-4 pm in The 1 in 12 Club Library.
Tickets for the workshop are £7 (£8.30 at the till) and include entry to the evening’s readings where Abhijeet will read with Stephen Emmerson, ans Ágnes Lehóczky. Priority for the open mic will go to those in the workshop!
Head to our website www.moresong.co.uk to get tickets! (See below)
2 pm to 4 pm
The 1 in 12 Club Library
21-23 Albion Street
Bradford
West Yorkshire
BD1 2LY
Poster by @ben_brumpton 🖋️
PUBLISHED
Otley Poets Live
A read-around is even more laid-back than open-mic, and the perfect opportunity to share your poetry with others. Bring along your poetry, or simply come and spend the evening with like-minded friends. Everyone welcome!
Otley Poets Live events will be permanently at Otley Labour Rooms now with a 7:30pm start.
Coming events:
5th November 2026 - Antony Dunn
Pop the dates in your diary now - more details will follow nearer to each event.
7.30 pm to 9.30 pm
Otley and Yeadon Labour Party
Nelson Street
Otley
LS21 1EZ
PUBLISHED
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!
PAYF
7.00 pm to 9.30 pm
Brook House WMC
221 Barnsley Road
Wakefield
WF1 5NU
PUBLISHED
House of Stanzas
House of Stanzas is a community-focused creative arts organisation, supporting, nurturing and inspiring creatives in a safe space to thrive.
Our brand new poetry night sits in the heart of Leeds at Hope House on first Thursday of each month!
Whether you're seeking inspiration, looking to connect with fellow poets, or simply want to spend an evening surrounded by poetry, House of Stanzas is the place to be!
This is a 'not for profit' event, profits are donated to MAP charity to support the important work they do providing a vital educational provision for young people who struggle to access mainstream school settings
£6 via Skiddle
6.30 pm 9.30 pm
The Courtyard
65 Mabgate
Leeds
LS9 7DR
PUBLISHED
More Song
Big More Song event for October with Stephen Emmerson, Abhijeet Singh, and Ágnes Lehóczky
Abhijeet will be running a workshop 2 - 4 also at the 1 in 12 Club.
What: More Song ⛓️
Where: The 1 in 12 Club Library, Bradford City Centre 🔴⚫️
When: Thursday, October 1st, 7 - 9 pm ⏰
How: £3 tickets / PWYC
Message for an open mic slot 🎤
7 pm to 9 pm
The 1 in 12 Club Library
21-23 Albion Street
Bradford
West Yorkshire
BD1 2LY
Poster by @ben_brumpton 🖋️
PUBLISHED
Batley Poets Open Mic
Join us to share your poetry, favourite poems, or just listen and have a wonderful evening!
Do you want to share your poetry, your favourite poem, or just have an enjoyable evening? Join our poetry open mic night at Batley Library.
Everyone's welcome, whether it's your first time or your fifty-first time. We've always said 'Everyone's a Batley Poet', and we haven't been proven wrong yet.
Come along to perform a poem you've written, one you like, or just sit back and enjoy a cuppa and meet some new friends.
Free
7 pm to 9 pm
Batley Library
14 Market Place
Batley
WF17 5DA
PUBLISHED
All of Us - Poetry Workshops
A free monthly poetry workshop, based in Leeds and accessible to everyone. A place to share a passion for words, and analyse styles.
Join Joe Spivey, Oliver Clifford, and our lovely attendees to explore poetry techniques and forms in a supportive environment.
This session we'll:
- Explore contemporary uses of punctuation in poetry
- Think through the lenses of form, rhythm, space, and non-verbal communication
- Use selected poems from diverse writers to prompt a discussion around the role punctuation plays in poetry.
- End with an opportunity for one or two attendees to share a poem for feedback (the feedback is optional! Please be mindful to only bring one poem due to time restraints and supporting everyone else present)
Free - suggested donation £5.00. Book tickets at the link below.
6 pm to 7.30 pm
Imagine Leeds,
9 Blenheim Ter
Woodhouse
Leeds
LS2 9HZ
Note - this date is not confirmed please check with the event's own information first
PUBLISHED
Live Poetry: LIVEwire x Bad Betty
An evening of stellar live poetry, presented to you by LIVEwire Poetry and Bad Betty Press!
Get ready for an electrifying night of poetry! Whether you're a poetry newbie or a seasoned fan, this event is an accessible and inclusive space for all.
Featuring some of the best poets on the scene today, with four acts joining us as part of the Bad Betty Live UK tour, and the wonderful Erin Bolens joining the bill as our Leeds-based star.
The event will be co-hosted by Jake Wild Hall and Matt Abbott.
Line Up:
Hannah Silva, Keith Jarrett, Perla Kantarjian, Jake Wild Hall, Erin Bolens, Matt Abbott.
Tickets: £6 to £8. Click on the button below to go to the Eventbrite page
7.30 pm
Hyde Park Book Club
27-29 Headingley Lane
Headingley
Leeds
LS6 1BL
PUBLISHED
WordSpace Open Mic
On the first Wednesday of every month our back room come alive with the power of words. An open mic night for prose, poetry, comedy, music & much more. Plus a special guest speaker!
Starting at 7pm and completely free entry, come down and let your words flow.
Back after a Summer break with the launch of an Anthology.
7 pm to 9 pm
The Horsforth Brewery and Taproom
143 New Side Road
Leeds
LS18 4QD
PUBLISHED
Bradford Open Mic
Breathtakingly brilliant bunch of incredible poets at the #Bradford Open Mic. It truly is a wonderful friendly space with incredible verse that explores language and emotions without holding anything back. Beginners welcome in a very supportive atmosphere.
Take Part in the Timed Poetry Challenge write a poem of 30 seconds or 60 seconds and perform it on the night with a chance to win. This meeting's challenge theme 'Death'!
City Library Bradford
9 Aldermanbury
The Broadway
Bradford
BD1 1SD
PUBLISHED
Hinterland Poets Open Mic + Guest Poets
Join us for a evening of open mic poetry hosted by Dominic Berry with a different Guest Poet each month!
Welcome to the Hinterland Poetry Night! Join us for an evening filled with beautiful words, creative minds, and good vibes. Whether you're a seasoned poet or just looking to enjoy some spoken word, this event is for you.
Our poetry nights will take place on the 2nd Thursday of each month. Come early to grab a seat, order a drink, and get ready to be inspired by the talented guest and local poets taking the stage.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with the local poetry community, share your own work, or simply sit back and enjoy the magic of words.
Open Mic will operate on a first come, first signed up basis. Slots will be 3 minutes.
7 pm to 9.30 pm
Hinterland Alcohol-Free Bar and Café
16-20 Turner Street
Manchester
M4 1DZ
PUBLISHED
Well Spoken
Event by Doncaster Brewery & Tap and Mick Jenkinson
Well Spoken is our monthly spoken word evening where you have the opportunity to read something of your own, or by a favourite author or you can just come along and listen. As always you can also enjoy some fine real ale and real cider.
Start time: 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm
Doncaster Brewery
7 Young Street
Doncaster
DN1 3EL
PUBLISHED
Under the Lobby Lights
Don’t forget to email for an open mic 🎤 slot underthelobbylights@gmail.com
Spoken Word Night. Open Mic.
plus readings from guests
From 7.30 pm
The Lobby
1867, Westgate
Wakefield
WF1 1EP
(Opposite the Theatre Royal)
PUBLISHED
Bar One Poetry Open Mic
In collaboration and hosted by UoS Poetry Society, join us in Raynor Lounge, Bar One on the third Tuesday of every month for Poetry Open Mic Night.
Whether you want to perform, or just enjoy the words, everyone is welcome - students & the public.
Free entry from 7.30 pm.
Sign up in advance via Poetry Soc, or sign up on the night.
Bar One
Sheffield Students' Union
Western Bank
Sheffield
S10 2TG
Bar One aims to be back in October!
*** Note the 20th October date is not confirmed ***
PUBLISHED
Jackanory
Jackanory will be returning for the 13th year anniversary on Saturday 5th September, 2026.
Guests:
Oz Hardwick
Matthew Paul
Al Wilkinson
Nabeela Ahmed
plus open mic
2 pm - 4 pm
CoActive Maker Space
The Ridings
Almhouse Lane
Wakefield
WF1 1DS
Halima Mayat
Founder of Jackanory, a spoken word and story telling event.
Facebook: Jackanory For Adults
Email:jackanory12 @ myyahoo.com
Youtube: @halimamayat6508
PUBLISHED
Writing Hours @ Manchester Cathedral
Need a quiet space to write? Come and write alongside others each month in a serene and historical environment!
Need a quiet space to write for a few hours?
Manchester Cathedral is opening up its library once a month in the evening for self-guided writing hours for writers in the city. Come and write alongside others in a serene and historical environment!
Free, check availability on the Eventbrite page (see below)
6 pm to 8 pm
Manchester Cathedral
Victoria Street
Manchester
M3 1SX
PUBLISHED
Talking Zebras on Zoom
Do you enjoy Poetry / Prose / Short Stories / The Spoken Word?
Do you like Listening / Reading / Performing?
Then why not join our friendly, regular group ...
Talking Zebras
Jim is likely to organise two Zoom meetings in August:
Every month when there is a fifth Saturday the group, which usually meets in Bobbin Carrier, Cleckheaton, meet in an online Zoom group.
Please go to the Talking Zebras website and email for the link. It usually happens around 7pm, but the exact time is to be confirmed.
Note: the October date is not yet confirmed.
PUBLISHED
Poet's Nest Wring Club
By Rachael Hill
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.
Come join our friendly circle for some relaxed yet focused writing time; nurture your practice, meet new writers and friends, and enjoy spending time doing something you love with likeminded creatives.
While we have a bent towards poetry we also welcome writers of all styles, genres, and experience.
The sessions will start with a short chat, then there'll be plenty of time to get your head down and work, and at the end there'll always be an optional sharing circle.
There'll be several poetry collections, anthologies, and/or pamphlets available for you to look through, some pens and paper in case you didn't bring yours, and a few writing prompts in case you need a little inspiration to get you started.
Feel free to work on an existing project, or come ready to start something new.
Saison is a welcoming, queer friendly bar on Burton Road. They serve a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. There will be some ambient bar noise so feel free to bring headphones, earplugs, or whatever you need. This is a neurodivergent and queer friendly space open to everyone and supportive of all.
6 pm to 7.30 pm
£5
Saison
236 Burton Road
West Didsbury
M20 2LW
PUBLISHED
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.
Most recent update: 9th September, 2026