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The Not-So-Secret Book Festival

The Secret Bookshelf, Unit 8a The Courtyard, 38 Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7DP
Drawn image with - book showing word The Not So Secret Book Festival - 20 to 22nd June 2025

About

Come along to Carrickfergus from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 June for a literary celebration like no other!  Organised by The Secret Bookshelf, The Not-So-Secret Book Festival is a vibrant weekend packed with author readings, book signings, family fun, poetry, storytelling, and spirited conversations with top crime writers, poets, and historians.

Highlights include:

  • A lively festival opening with Anne Marie McAleese and some craic.

  • Leo Varadshishvili in conversation about his acclaimed work Hard By Great Forest.

  • Readings from exciting new voices like Byddi Lee and Wendy Erskine.

  • Themed events including "Femina Culpa: Poems of the Female Criminal", and "The Funny Side of Noir" with leading crime writers Colin Batemen, Callum McSorley and James Murphy.

  • A magical storytelling garden session with Liz Weir and friends.

  • Fun for families with a Children’s Book Morning and a special ACOTEN fan celebration.

Whether you're a lifelong reader, a budding young bookworm, or just love a great story, there's something for everyone - many events are free, and ticketed sessions start from just £4.

📍 Venues include The Secret Bookshelf, Carrickfergus Museum, and @7 Bistro in the Courtyard Carrickfergus.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this enchanting literary weekend. Grab your tickets, bring your curiosity, and discover the magic waiting between the pages!

Book Tickets

Facilities

Accessibility

  • All areas accessible to disabled visitors
  • Ramp / Level Access

Parking & Transport

  • Frequent bus services
  • Off site parking
  • Parking Areas for Disabled Visitors
  • Station nearby

Payment Methods

  • All major credit/debit cards accepted

Provider Preferences

  • In Market Town
  • Non smoking establishment

Guide Prices

Many events are free, and ticketed sessions start from just £4.

Book Tickets Online

Add The Not-So-Secret Book Festival to your Itinerary

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Map & Directions

Opening Times

Not-So-Secret Book Festival (various events and venues) (20 June 2025 - 22 June 2025)

What's Nearby

  1. Beautiful parkland on the waterfront of Carrickfergus within sight of the Castle…

    0.08 miles away
  2. Home of Sir Arthur Chichester this delightful recreated Knot Garden is located close ot…

    0.18 miles away
  3. Carrickfergus Urban Farm and Garden Centre at Kilcreggan is a free popular attraction for…

    0.25 miles away
  4. Step back in time at The Guard Room in Carrickfergus Town Hall, immersing visitors in the…

    0.28 miles away
  5. Local museum interpreting the long and distinguished history of the town and surrounding…

    0.28 miles away
  6. Get ready to step back in time at Carrickfergus Castle, an incredible Norman castle…

    0.39 miles away
  7. Established in 1182 by the Anglo Norman, John de Courcy, St Nicholas' has many historic…

    0.41 miles away
  8. Visit the King William III Statue, a bronze figure near Carrickfergus Castle on Castle…

    0.54 miles away
  9. Located less than a mile from Carrickfergus town centre, the Andrew Jackson Cottage is a…

    0.73 miles away
  10. County Antrim War Memorial erected and dedicated to the fallen from the County of Antrim…

    3.21 miles away
  11. Discover magnificent views and Ulster Scots heritage in Templecorran graveyard,…

    4.12 miles away
  12. Whitehead Centre provides a tourism hub for information about what is going on locally…

    4.31 miles away
  13. The new Whitehead Railway Museum will take visitors on a journey through time - see the…

    4.42 miles away
  14. A short and delightful coastal path from the picturesque seaside town of Whitehead to…

    4.82 miles away
  15. On the thrilling Gobbins Experience, nature isn’t content to just sit back and be admired…

    5.68 miles away
  16. One of our lesser known ‘hidden treasures’, Gleno is a magnificent 30 foot waterfall…

    5.79 miles away

Related

Red vintage pull along fire carriage branded Carrickfergus Fire BrigadeCarrickfergus Museum, CarrickfergusLocal museum interpreting the long and distinguished history of the town and surrounding area, with artefacts of treasure excavated in Carrickfergus. There are multi-media and audio-visual presentations.

Pink seat with white rug and cushion surrounded by shelves and tables with booksThe Secret Bookshelf, CarrickfergusDiscover The Secret Bookshelf in Carrickfergus' Courtyard, Ireland's top indie bookstore. We offer unique books, gifts, and accessories, host events, and support writing classes. Book hunts and unique finds await!

Interior of 7 Bistro / Cafe with grey floor and black tables and chairs@7 Bistro/café, CarrickfergusDiscover @7 in The Courtyard, Carrickfergus: a cosy spot offering all-day breakfast, delicious lunches, snacks, and drinks, with gluten-free options and outdoor patio seating. Takeaway available for home or alfresco dining.

The Courtyard Carrickfergus, CarrickfergusThe Courtyard in Carrickfergus is a charming retreat featuring local shops, cafes, and a community space. Explore its tranquil garden, unique businesses, and enjoy its welcoming, creative atmosphere near the castle.

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