West Cork Literary festival starts in Bantry  next week

Local and international writers are set to take part in the annual West Cork Literary Festival which will take place in Bantry from Friday, July 10, to Friday, July 17.

The event will welcome internationally acclaimed writers, leading Irish voices, and emerging talent for a packed programme of readings, workshops, masterclasses, conversations, children’s events, and unique literary experiences.

The line-up includes Sara Baume, Margaret Busby, Jonathan Coe, Elaine Feeney, Karl Henry, Anton Hur, Charlie Mackesy, Dearbhla Mescal, Andrew Miller, Miriam O’Callaghan, Ian Rankin, Catherine Ryan Howard, Jessica Traynor, Djamel White, Nussaibah Younis, Emer McLysaght, and Sarah Breen.

Festival director Eimear O’Herlihy said: “The wait is almost over and festival season is well and truly here. We can’t wait to gather with authors and audiences in Bantry for our jam-packed eight days.

“Tickets are selling very fast for many events and we recommend advance booking, but we will also have lots of drop-in events for last-minute day trippers.

“Whether you are a writer or a reader, we have so much to offer you, from readings by international and Irish authors with a good mix of Cork talent, an increased focus on translated literature to celebrate Ireland holding the presidency of the Council of the European Union for the next six months, a pop-up Gaeltacht, our annual trip to Whiddy Island, showcases of new and emerging writers, as well as yoga on the lawn of Bantry House and a sea swim for those who need a little time out.”

The festival will officially open with a special visit from minister for culture, communications and sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, who will launch this year’s event.

He said: “I am delighted to officially open the 2026 West Cork Literary Festival. Each year, the festival brings together an outstanding mix of Irish and international writers in the beautiful setting of Bantry, creating a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with literature, ideas, and storytelling.”