SDPF

The South Downs Poetry Festival is a regional celebration of poetry and the spoken word, bringing literary events to venues across the South Downs and surrounding communities. Its programme combines readings, live music, talks, workshops and opportunities for audiences to take part, with events hosted in settings ranging from libraries, pubs and artists’ studios to churches, cathedrals and seaside locations. The festival features established poets alongside writers from the South Downs, and its activities include themed celebrations of poets such as John Keats and William Blake, as well as collaborations with local festivals and cultural organisations.

Alongside its main programme, the festival supports ongoing community events, including monthly open-mic poetry in Chichester and Arts Junction in Arundel. It also offers virtual events, helping audiences participate beyond in-person venues. The festival publishes Poetry & All That Jazz, an annual poetry magazine featuring work by leading poets and regional writers. Its Binsted Prize competition invites entries from poets, while workshops provide opportunities to explore and develop writing.