The publishing industry in Great Britain is constantly evolving, and 2025 is no exception. This blog post provides a comprehensive overview of the key publishing trends for 2025 in Great Britain, with a focus on book shows and writing festivals.
Key Publishing Trends in Great Britain for 2025
Several key trends are shaping the types of books publishers are actively seeking in Great Britain in 2025.
Readers are increasingly drawn to the physicality of books, appreciating the tactile experience and aesthetic appeal of well-designed editions. This trend is driving demand for deluxe editions with features like sprayed edges, unique cover designs, and bonus content. While breakout bestsellers are difficult to predict, some genres are gaining traction, including “healing fiction” in translation, short-form fiction, verse novels and poetry, and graphic novels.
Ebooks and audiobooks continue to grow in popularity, fueled by increased accessibility, affordability, and convenience. The relationship between self-publishing and traditional publishing is becoming more complex, with hybrid authors navigating both models and traditional publishers acquiring successful self-published authors. Artificial intelligence is also playing an increasing role in the publishing process, from content creation to marketing and distribution.
Book Shows and Writing Festivals in the United Kingdom
Despite the rise of digital platforms, book fairs and conferences remain vital for industry networking and discovering new talent. Some key events in the United Kingdom for 2025 include:
- Book Fairs:
The London Book Fair (March 11-13, 2025),
Edinburgh Premier Book Fair (March 28-29, 2025), and
Harrogate Book Fair (March 21-22, 2025). - Writing Festivals:
Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival (Harrogate),
Primadonna Festival (Suffolk),
Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival (Stirling),
Chiswick Book Festival (London),
Edinburgh International Book Festival,
Bath Children’s Literature Festival,
Cymera (Scotland),
Capital Crime (London),
Noir at the Bar Edinburgh,
The Last Word Festival (London),
Queen’s Park Book Festival (London),
Marlborough LitFest (Wiltshire),
Henley Literary Festival (Henley-on-Thames),
Petworth Literary Festival (West Sussex), and
London Festival of Writing.
This is not an exhaustive list, but it provides a good starting point for exploring book shows and writing festivals in the UK in 2025.
Conclusion
The publishing landscape in Great Britain is dynamic and multifaceted. By understanding the key trends and attending industry events, authors and agents can position themselves for success in this ever-changing market.
The Original Writers Group 