UK Has Hidden Literary Gems in 2025 Featuring a Plethora of Insta-Worthy Destinations, Epic Book Festivals, and Must-See Author Landmarks: A Complete Travel Guide

Published on June 26, 2025

The UK has long been a beacon of literary heritage, attracting book lovers from around the globe. From the works of Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens to contemporary literary giants like Hilary Mantel and Zadie Smith, the UK’s literary past and present have made it a premier destination for literary tourism. As we move into 2025, the UK continues to evolve its literary landscape, offering new experiences, landmarks, and attractions for both seasoned literary fans and newcomers eager to explore the places that inspired some of the world’s most beloved works of literature.

This article delves into some of the exciting new literary tourism developments set to debut in the UK in 2025. Whether you are a lifelong literature enthusiast or simply looking for unique ways to experience the country’s literary culture, there is no better time to explore the literary treasures of the UK.

New Literary Attractions Opening in 2025

1. The Museum of Shakespeare – London

One of the most anticipated openings in 2025 is the Museum of Shakespeare in Hackney, London. This museum will bring to life one of the most influential figures in world literature: William Shakespeare. The museum will be housed at the site of the historic Curtain Playhouse, one of the first theatres where Shakespeare’s plays were performed.

What makes this museum unique is its innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Visitors will have the chance to step back in time to 16th-century London, experiencing Shakespeare’s world in a fully immersive environment. AI recreations will allow visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and even the smells of the Elizabethan theatre, bringing Shakespeare’s era to life in ways never seen before. From interactive exhibits to digital renditions of Shakespeare’s works, the museum will offer a modern take on the playwright’s rich legacy.

Shakespeare’s influence on global theatre is undeniable, and this new museum aims to both educate and inspire. By exploring the world in which he lived and worked, visitors will gain new insights into his remarkable contribution to literature. The Museum of Shakespeare is sure to be a must-visit destination for any literary tourist in 2025.

Opening Year: 2025
Location: Hackney, London

2. The Wordsworth Way – Lake District

2025 marks the 255th anniversary of the birth of William Wordsworth, one of the most famous poets of the Romantic period. To commemorate his legacy, the Lake District National Park is unveiling the Wordsworth Way, a 14-mile walking trail that connects key locations from Wordsworth’s life and work.

The trail begins in the picturesque town of Ullswater and winds its way through some of the most beautiful landscapes in England, including Rydal Mount and Dove Cottage, both of which were Wordsworth’s homes. Along the way, visitors can stop at various memorials and landmarks, such as the Brothers Parting Stone, where Wordsworth commemorated his brother John.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of one of England’s most beloved poets, experiencing the very landscapes that inspired his most famous works, such as “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” and “Tintern Abbey.” Whether you are an avid Wordsworth scholar or simply someone who appreciates the natural beauty of the Lake District, the Wordsworth Way is a wonderful way to connect with the poetic heritage of the region.

Opening Year: 2025
Location: Lake District, Cumbria

Literary Festivals and Events in 2025

3. Bath Literature Festival – Bath

The Bath Literature Festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025, continuing its legacy as one of the most significant literary festivals in the UK. Known for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman baths, Bath has long been associated with literary greats, especially Jane Austen, who spent several years living in the city.

Held in the spring, the Bath Literature Festival offers a wide range of events, including author talks, panel discussions, and readings. Over the years, it has featured some of the most well-known names in literature, and 2025 will be no exception. The festival is an excellent opportunity for book lovers to engage with authors, publishers, and fellow readers, while also soaking up the beauty and history of this UNESCO World Heritage city.

For those interested in the life and works of Jane Austen, Bath also hosts a number of Austen-themed events throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for fans of the beloved author. From literary walking tours to the annual Jane Austen Festival in September, Bath remains one of the UK’s top literary destinations.

Festival Dates: May 19-21, 2025
Location: Bath, Somerset

4. Bradford Literature Festival – Bradford

In 2025, Bradford will hold its annual Literature Festival, but this year it will be even more special, as the city has been designated the UK City of Culture for 2025. Bradford’s Literature Festival has grown tremendously in recent years, and its new status as a cultural hub is expected to further enhance its appeal.

The festival will run from late June to early July and will feature a wide array of events, including author talks, performances, writing workshops, and panel discussions. Bradford is known for its diverse and inclusive cultural programming, and the literature festival will continue this tradition by hosting international voices alongside UK-based writers.

With its blend of literary events and cultural celebrations, the Bradford Literature Festival is sure to be a highlight for literary tourists in 2025, especially for those looking to experience a vibrant, multicultural city with a rich literary heritage.

Festival Dates: Late June to early July, 2025
Location: Bradford, West Yorkshire

5. Wigtown Book Festival – Wigtown

Located in the charming town of Wigtown in Scotland, the Wigtown Book Festival is Scotland’s largest book festival, attracting visitors from all over the world. Although the festival usually takes place in the autumn, in 2025, it will gain even more attention as Wigtown celebrates its role as one of the UK’s premier literary towns.

The festival will feature over 250 events, including author appearances, panel discussions, and workshops, covering a wide range of genres, from fiction to poetry and non-fiction. Wigtown, often referred to as Scotland’s “National Book Town,” is home to a number of independent bookstores, and the festival offers an opportunity to visit these unique literary havens while exploring the town’s bookish culture.

The Wigtown Book Festival is a celebration of literature, community, and creativity, making it a must-visit for those looking to experience Scotland’s literary scene.

Festival Dates: Autumn 2025
Location: Wigtown, Dumfries and Galloway

Literary Landmarks and Tours in the UK

6. Seamus Heaney HomePlace – Bellaghy, Northern Ireland

Seamus Heaney, one of the most renowned poets of the 20th century, is a literary figure whose work continues to resonate with readers around the world. The Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy, County Londonderry, serves as an arts and literary centre dedicated to his life and work.

The centre features a permanent exhibition called “Seamus Heaney: Man and Boy,” which provides visitors with a deeper understanding of Heaney’s life and literary achievements. The centre also hosts a variety of events, including poetry readings, workshops, and performances.

For anyone who admires Heaney’s poetry, a visit to the Seamus Heaney HomePlace is an opportunity to connect with his work in the very landscape that inspired much of it. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this centre offers a meaningful literary experience.

Location: Bellaghy, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland

7. Literary Landscapes Tour – England

For those looking to experience England’s literary heritage in a more comprehensive way, the “Exploring More Literary Landscapes of England” tour offers an immersive, 21-day journey through the country’s most iconic literary sites. This tour takes you from the idyllic countryside of the Lake District, home to William Wordsworth, to the bustling streets of London, where Charles Dickens once walked.

On this tour, you will visit the homes of famous writers such as Jane Austen, the Brontë sisters, and Virginia Woolf, while also exploring the landscapes that inspired their works. Whether it’s the windswept moors of Yorkshire or the charming towns of the Cotswolds, this tour provides an opportunity to experience the beauty and history that shaped some of the UK’s most beloved literary figures.

Location: Various locations across England

8. Literary Bookshop Bars in London

In recent years, a new trend has emerged in London: literary bookshop bars. These unique venues combine a love for books with the vibrant nightlife of the city. Bookshop bars like Morocco Bound, BookBar, Backstory, and Swans Bar are perfect spots for book lovers to enjoy a drink, peruse a carefully curated selection of books, and attend literary events, all within a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

These establishments are particularly popular among younger readers, especially those from the BookTok community, and offer a fresh way to experience literature in the heart of London. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee during the day or enjoying a cocktail in the evening, these bookshop bars provide the perfect setting for literary conversations and book discussions.

Location: London, Various Locations

Conclusion

As we look ahead to 2025, the UK’s literary tourism scene is brimming with exciting new developments, attractions, and events. From immersive museums and walking trails to literary festivals and cultural landmarks, there has never been a better time to explore the country’s literary heritage. Whether you’re interested in revisiting the world of Shakespeare, wandering through the landscapes of William Wordsworth, or discovering new literary hotspots in Bradford and Wigtown, the UK offers something for every book lover.

For those planning a literary journey in 2025, the UK provides a wealth of opportunities to connect with the stories, authors, and landscapes that have shaped the literary world. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the world of books, history, and culture—wherever your literary adventure takes you.