Supporters
Words by the Water returned successfully in 2024. The festival is now led by Leah Varnell (formerly a Director of Ways With Words) in partnership with Lucy and Gwenda Matthews of Bookends Keswick and Carlisle
The book festival has been a feature on the Keswick calendar for well over twenty years and 2024 saw an exciting new adventure with Words by the Water in partnership with the independent Keswick bookshop, Bookends and Theatre by the Lake. The festival is a place to come together and share ideas, learn and discover. WBTW is delighted to be working with new partners and look forward to building the future of the festival.
Bookends
Bookends an independent, family-owned bookshop has been in Keswick over 30 years.
Theatre by the Lake
Theatre by the Lake has been producing theatre in Cumbria since 1999 when it replaced the much- loved Blue Box Century Theatre.
Kierweb
Kierweb offers Fast Affordable Web Design from one page websites to full e-commerce sites.
Fi & Becs
Fi & Becs Design & Wording is a boutique creative agency that doesn't cost the earth.
Also thanks to ...
Catherine Fairfield of Appletrees Guest House for providing lovely comfortable accommodation and hearty, delicious breakfasts for the writers who staythere.
https://appletreeskeswick.com
George at Merienda for providing delicious meals which were very much appreciated by the writers.
https://www.merienda.co.uk/
Words of Welcome from the Presidents of Words by the Water
Words by the Water is delighted that Melvyn Bragg is once again lending support to the long - established festival. “I am thrilled that the festival is back in Keswick after a number of challenging years. It has been a very difficult time in the arts generally and it is important for Cumbria that cultural events such as Words by the Water continue and thrive.”
He is joined by his daughter, priest and writer, Marie-Elsa Bragg, as co-president for another year. Marie-Elsa has spoken many times at the festival and has become increasingly involved with securing its future- “I am looking forward to continuing in the role of president and know that the festival has a bright future. Leah, Gwenda and Lucy have lots of innovative and exciting plans moving forward and also will continue to deliver thought-provoking and interesting talks at Words by the Water. I am delighted to be part of the project as the festival grows and moves from strength to strength.”
