Sometimes, finding a quiet space and curling up with a book is the best way to experience the joy of reading. At other times, what you need is to be surrounded by people who love the written (or spoken) word as much as you do, and for those times, literary festivals are invaluable.

Thankfully, the UK is home to dozens of book festivals, from small, local outfits to large events that attract global audiences – and what all of them have in common is that they bring readers together with other readers and with authors. You might go to a book festival to hear from and meet your favourite author, but we can guarantee you’ll also discover some new writers along the way.

Best of all, festivals take place throughout the year, so there’s always something going on, and many festivals also host special events in their off-months.

Fancy trying one out for yourself? Here are six UK literary festivals to get you started.

Images: courtesy of festivals