Events
Writers' Group
We are a varied group that meet and give friendly and genuinely constructive criticism of one another's work, every last Thursday of the month from 7:00pm at October Books. If you're new you can join the mailing list for updates!
Writers of all styles, experience and ability are welcome. You can submit your work in advance of meetings, so that everyone can read it ahead of time. Booking is not required, but there is a £5 charge on the door, to help us keep running amazing events like these.
Next meetings:
- 27 Dec at 6:30 pm in Trago Lounge for a social
- 29 Jan 2026 7 pm at October Books as usual for sharing writing
Poetry Open Mic Night CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 19th December
Hosted by Amelia Simpson on the 3rd Friday of every month. Join us whether you're a seasoned poet or this is your first time sharing your work <3 Arrive by 6:45pm as we will start at 7pm sharp! Amelia will take your name on the door if you would like to perform. Any performances are welcome but times must not exceed 10 minutes, this is to give everyone ample opportunity and time. We are open to all poetry, prose, spoken work, and short stories.
This December our open mic will be followed by mince pies and festivities !
Bring Your Own Book – November Edition Part 2
Join us for the fourth session of our book club on Saturday 29th of November at 11am!
This friendly, informal group is open to anyone aged 18+.
Just bring along a book you’ve read — one you loved, hated, or are still thinking about — and be ready to chat about it.
No pressure, no set reading list — just good conversations.
Dates/Times🕰️ 29th November, Saturday 11:00-12:30pm
Tickets 🆓 Free of charge, booking required
Protest Days, Rebellion Nights: Songs and Stories of the Luddites by Monty +The Anywhens
They were days of direct action: the Diggers and the Levellers, the Plug Drawer rioters and the Pentrich rebels; the followers of King Ludd, and of Captain Swing; of juries, and spies; of executions, and alibis.
And today? Today, their stories still deserve to be told, their songs still deserve to be sung; so prepare to sit back, and let the Protest tales begin.
Isle of Wight based "Monty + The AnyWhens" is a collaboration between traditional storyteller Tony "Monty" Hirst and folk and blues duo Glenn Koppany (singer-songwriter) and Sue Cain.
Dates/Times🕰️ 4th December, Thursday 7-9pm
Tickets🎟️ £10.00
We Can Learn to Sing in Festive Harmony Workshop
Light up the darkest days in this uplifting, a cappella singing workshop, learning songs about the turning seasons, darkness and light, and being cosy and warm.
No need to read music as everything will be taught by ear.
Hot drinks and mince pies available.
Please bring a donation.
Dates/Times🕰️ 13th December, Saturday 10.30am to 12.30pm
Tickets🎟️ £10.00
Regular Community Events
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Mondays - Veg Out Cafe
More info hereA pop-up vegan community cafe, using food waste. Pay what you feel.
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Tuesday - Radical Reading Group
More info hereSecond Tuesday of the month, 7.30pm - 9pm. Discussing radical and revolutionary ideas through the medium of chapters and short texts.
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Wednesday - Quaker Meeting
Email for DetailsThird Wednesday of the month, 6.15pm - 7pm. Everyone welcome
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Friday - Co-working Space
Catch up with your work in the cosy and well equipped bookshop environment. £5 for the whole day.
Check our online calendar before visiting, as occasionally we may have a private hire. -
Saturday - Collage Club
Every 4th Saturday of the month 3:30 - 5:30pm. Materials provided. £5. Cut, stick and make whatever you want.
