North London Book Festival
Welcome to North London Book Festival 2026 – a vibrant literary gathering featuring debut and iconic authors across multiple stages at Alexandra Palace. Expect an inspiring mix of readings, panel discussions, Q&As, workshops, and book signings. It’s a true marketplace of stories for every genre and every reader.
This year we are thrilled to welcome back audience favourites Laura Bates, Natalie Haynes, and Michael Rosen, who captivated crowds in 2024. Joining them are an exciting line-up: Rachel Parris, Tessa Hadley, Jeffrey Boakye, Ben Aaronovitch, Kate Muir, Charlotte Mendelson, Natasha Brown and many more.
The festival launches on 23 April 2026 with a powerful opening event of words and music as Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason introduces her new book To Be Young, Gifted and Black. Her passionate defence of Black excellence in the arts will be accompanied by live performances from Braimah and Konya Kanneh-Mason, adding musical excellence to the conversation.
The North London Book Fest has something to delight readers of every generation. Young book lovers can write poetic verses about creepy crawlies and dinosaurs with Simon Mole, dress up as great women from history with suffragette descendant Kate Pankhurst, and join Onjali Q. Raúf for an inspiring workshop on writing and activism.
Throughout the festival, you can mingle with your favourite authors, get books signed, and network with fellow readers and writers. Enjoy readings over a bite to eat and a glass of wine.
Pick up your next page-turner and explore a wide selection of books at our festival bookshop supplied by Waterstones.
23 Apr 2026
Jeffrey Boakye: Musical World
23 Apr 2026
Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason: To Be Young, Gifted and Black
25 Apr 2026
Michael Rosen
25 Apr 2026
Onjali Q. Raúf: The Boy At the Back of the Class
25 Apr 2026
Tessa Hadley: The Party
25 Apr 2026
Ben Aaronovitch: Stone and Sky
25 Apr 2026
Tom Rob Smith: Twenty Years Together
26 Apr 2026
Simon Mole: A First Book of Dinosaurs and Bugs
26 Apr 2026
Kate Pankhurst
26 Apr 2026
Rachel Parris: Introducing Mrs Collins
26 Apr 2026
Nell Frizzell: Brave and Bold (in All Weathers)
26 Apr 2026
Kate Muir & Charlotte Mendelson
26 Apr 2026
Laura Bates: The New Age of Sexism
26 Apr 2026
Alan Ereira: Gold: How it Shaped History
26 Apr 2026
Natasha Brown: Universality
26 Apr 2026
Natalie Haynes: No Friend to This House
FAQs
How do I get to the Festival?
Alexandra Palace is well connected by public transport, car and local walking routes. For full directions, travel options and the latest guidance, please visit our Getting Here page.
Where is the entrance?
The festival takes place across three locations within Alexandra Palace: the Theatre, the Transmitter Hall and the Creativity Pavilion. Please check on your ticket where your event is taking place.
Upon arrival, all visitors should head to East Court, where the Festival welcome point is located.
Can I buy tickets on the day?
If the event you are interested in is not sold out, a limited number of tickets will be available to purchase on the day in the East Court. We strongly recommend booking in advance to secure your place.
Is there a bookshop at the festival?
Yes. A dedicated festival bookshop will be open throughout the event. The bookstore is only accessible to festival ticket holders. You’ll find books by all participating authors, plus selected titles from partner publishers.
How do I collect books I’ve pre-ordered?
Head to the festival bookshop and give your name to the bookseller team. They’ll have your order ready for collection.
What’s the programme for the festival?
Explore the full line-up of talks, panels, workshops and signings by downloading the Book Fest programme.
Is the festival cashless?
Yes. Alexandra Palace operates a cashless system across most outlets, including bars, food vendors, merchandise points and the festival bookstore. Please bring a card or mobile payment method.
What food and drink options are available?
There are several places to eat and drink during your visit:
- East Court Café – open until 5.30pm
- Boathouse Café – hot food, snacks and drinks by the lake. Open until 5pm, Saturday/Sunday only
- Phoenix Bar & Pizzeria – hand-crafted stone-fired pizzas and drinks. Please note: this venue is located on the opposite side of Alexandra Palace, so allow extra walking time if you plan to visit during the festival.
- Festival Bar – located within the festival area for quick refreshments
Will photography or filming take place?
Yes. Photography and video recording may occur throughout the festival for promotional and archival purposes. If you have any concerns, please speak to a member of staff on the day.
Are there book signings?
Most authors will be available for signings immediately after their event, for a limited time. Signings take place in designated areas near the bookshop.
Is Alexandra Palace accessible?
Alexandra Palace offers step-free access to the East Court and festival spaces, accessible toilets, Blue Badge parking and staff on hand to assist where needed. For full accessibility information, please visit our dedicated FAQ page.
Partners
