Larking Gowen sponsors inaugural Ipswich Book Festival featuring Larry Lamb!

Larking Gowen is proud to sponsor the inaugural Ipswich Book Festival, celebrating the transformative power of books.

The brain child of local business owners Cathy Frost (LoveOne) Emma Lightfoot (Orwell Lady) Andrew Marsh (Dial Lane Books) and Tony Felgate (Monthind), this exciting new event for the town offers something for everyone, including author panels, meet and greets, signings, workshops, children’s activities and poetry performances.

Inspired by the town itself, the festival blends tradition and creativity, encouraging a community where authors, readers, and book lovers can connect.

Becky Ames is excited for Larking Gowen to be on board - “Supporting events like this will help the growth and profile of our county town which has so much to offer, but sometimes get a bad rep! Events like this boost collaboration amongst local businesses too, something we are passionate about at Larking Gowen.”

The festival will take place on 3 – 5 October 2025, and be held in multiple, accessible venues around the town, giving visitors a chance to explore Ipswich.

Emma Lightfoot, one of the festival founders said “We are thrilled to welcome Larking Gowen as a main sponsor of our first Ipswich Book Festival. We are proud of Ipswich’s creative community and look forward to engaging residents and welcoming visitors as we introduce diverse voices, new venues, and exciting events.

She continues “To have Larking Gowen with us at the start of our journey, is something we really appreciate;  we look forward to working closely for many years to come”

Larry Lamb, star of Gavin & Stacey and Eastenders, was the first big name announced to feature at the festival, and there’s more to come! For more information, visit Ipswich Book Festival, or follow them on socials to stay up to date on announcements and events.