Our second annual festival was a wonderful celebration of creativity, community, and conversation — this time expanded into a full weekend of events. From the lively pre-festival gathering at the pub to the inspiring talks, interviews and ‘in conversations’ that followed, the atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and connection. With authors, readers, and friends old and new coming together, it truly captured the spirit of what our festival is all about: sharing stories, ideas, and good company as well as celebrating Readers and Authors. Everybody came together to see those Instagram handles come to life, put faces to the (five star) reviews, and delight in the opportunity to finally meet.
Saturday marked the official start of the festival officially opened by Amanda Prowse, with a packed programme of events that celebrated storytelling in all its forms. Attendees enjoyed author talks, panel discussions, and workshops that sparked new ideas and creative energy. There was plenty of laughter, lively debate, and that special buzz that comes when people with a shared passion come together. Festival veterans were in attendance, the original quartet of Emma-Claire Wilson, Amanda Prowse, Miranda Dickinson & Ella Allbright, firm festival favourites, were present as well as new and re-occurring book club Authors.
Throughout the weekend, what shone through most was the sense of community. Whether it was old friends reconnecting, new ones being made, or conversations that carried on long after the sessions ended, the festival reminded us why gatherings like this matter. It wasn’t just about books or writing — it was about connection, curiosity, and celebrating the stories that bring us together.
We’re so grateful to everyone who took part, our speakers, volunteers, and all who attended and brought their enthusiasm, questions, and smiles. The festival wouldn’t be what it is without your support and spirit. Seeing the community come together like this makes all the planning worthwhile and inspires us to keep growing and improving each year.
An Important Cause
One of the highlights of Saturday was our cash raffle, held in support of Different Strokes Charity. Thanks to the generosity of our festival-goers, the raffle raised an incredible £522.60! Even more exciting, donations made through our JustGiving page, from supporters who couldn’t attend in person, helped to match this amount, doubling the impact for this amazing cause.
We are truly grateful to everyone who took part, whether by buying a raffle ticket, spreading the word, or donating online. Your support not only helped make the festival even more special, but also contributed to a charity doing incredible work. It’s wonderful to see our community coming together, not just to celebrate creativity and stories, but also to make a real difference in the lives of others.
The raffle was more than just a fundraising effort, it was a reminder of the generosity, spirit, and heart of everyone involved in the festival and how much we love Mr Tea Leaves – who inspired us to raise money for the cause. From the laughter as winners were announced to the knowledge that every pound raised would support such meaningful work, it was a moment that captured the very best of what our festival is all about.
Sunday continued the energy, with a slightly slower pace that allowed everyone to savour the final moments. The morning events were filled with reflection, creativity, and more opportunities to learn from our guest authors. As the afternoon drew to a close, there was a real feeling of warmth and accomplishment, a sense that something special had been shared among everyone who came.
As we look back on the weekend, we’re already buzzing with ideas for what’s next. The creativity, conversations, and connections that emerged will stay with us for a long time — and we can’t wait to welcome you all back for an even bigger and better celebration next year.
Tea Leaves & Reads were generously supported by Harper Collins, Simon & Schuster, Penguin and Fox Under the Moon who provided books and items for the Goody bags along with donations from Tea Leaves and Reads themselves. IF PLC supplied every guest with a beautiful journal for jotting down notes during the event. Choices Hire Services provided all of the tableware and contributed towards the cost of the linen, which was primarily met by Special Occasion Linen themselves. Tea Leaves & Reads sound equipment was primarily bought from a grant awarded by the Booksellers Association for which they are very grateful. The Discworld Cake was created by Kate Lawton who also designed the cupcakes to celebrate the launch of The Life Experiment by Jess Kitching.
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