Tales of the Weird: An Autumnal Festival 

As the Autumn mists descend, join us for a strange and most uncanny day at the British Library as we celebrate weird fiction in all its chilling glory. 

A packed day of talks and readings ending with a macabre-comedy cabaret curated and hosted by the incomparable Elf Lyons. 

Our remarkable line up of speakers includes some of the most exciting names in UK writing. Folk horror worlds are unearthed by Andrew Michael Hurley, introducing his new novel Barrowbeck, and Daisy Johnson, whose latest, Hotel, set on a possessed plot of land, is the successor to the uncanny classics Fen and Sisters. They are in conversation with weird fiction aficionado, comedian and writer Stewart Lee.

Weird bodies and more are explored by Eliza Clark (Boy Parts, Penance and new collection She’s Always Hungry) and Lottie Mills (Monstrum), hosted by Julia Armfield (Our Wives Under the Sea, Private Rites).

Our closing panel sees special guests including Reece Shearsmith (League of Gentlemen, Inside No.9) join Johnny Mains on a journey into their weird fiction favourites.  

Plus unveilings of the latest British Library Tales of the Weird editions Deadly Dolls and Halloweird introduced by Elizabeth Dearnley and Johnny Mains respectively, and many strange goings on throughout the day.

Much more to be announced. The full programme will be available soon.  

Tales of the Weird: An Autumnal Festival runs from 11.00 to 18:00 on Saturday 2 November, followed by the horror comedy cabaret evening until 21:00.  

First release tickets include both parts. Limited day and evening tickets will be on sale soon. Discounts available for British Library Members, Students, Under 26 and other concession groups. 

The British Library’s Weird Weekend starts the night before with a remarkable live performance in the main Entrance Hall by Gazelle Twin, whose darkly magic electronic album Black Dog is re-imagined with London Contemporary Orchestra. With support by Laura Cannell and entry included to the exhibition Medieval Women: in their own words. Information and tickets here.  

*tickets may be booked to attend the event in the British Library Pigott Theatre or watch the daytime panels online either live or within 48 hours on catch up. Viewing links for the online version will be sent out in the confirmation email you receive after booking.  

Captions are available for our online events and most in person events in the Pigott Theatre. If you have specific access requirements please email customer@bl.uk 

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