This free Bracknell book fair promises a brilliant day out for readers and aspiring writers

Book lovers and aspiring writers can discover their next great read at Bracknell Book Fair this September, with 23 authors, talks, Q&As and plenty of bookish inspiration at its new home, Oaktree Garden Centre.

Book lovers and aspiring writers are invited to Bracknell Book Fair on Saturday, 19th September, when the free community event returns in a new home at Oaktree Garden Centre, Warfield.

Founded by local award-winning author E. L. Williams in 2024, the fair features home grown talent and writers from further afield for what promises to be a deliciously bookish day out.

Visitors can expect a wide range of genres, including crime, thrillers, romance, fantasy, YA and children’s books from the 23 attending authors.

Williams said: “2026 is the National Year of Reading and the fair aims to help readers discover titles they might not stumble across on the shelves of their local bookshop.”

The fair welcomes traditionally published, self-published and hybrid authors alike. “In my experience, readers aren’t worried about the route a book took to reach them. They care that it’s professionally produced and tells a great story,” said Williams.

The speaker programme will include readings, Q&As, author talks and panel discussions on topics such as getting started in creative writing, turning your life experience into fuel for your novel and the pros and cons of traditional vs self-published routes.

Oaktree Garden Centre Director Phil Went said they are delighted to host the Bracknell Book Fair for 2026.

“Our garden centre has always aimed to be a community hub, and supporting authors and creatives aligns perfectly with our values. We’re excited to welcome visitors for a day full of inspiration, conversation and – of course – great books.”

Williams added: “Oaktree is a stunning independent garden centre with a large dog-friendly café, and I honestly can’t think of a more perfect day – books, flowers, dogs, great food and the most fabulous cakes.”

Williams is best known for her Ethereal World novels, she also supports emerging writers through her Writing Scared Substack and one-to-one mentoring.

The book fair, 10am to 4pm, is free to attend. Free car parking on site. Dog Friendly.

See a list of those taking part at elwilliamsauthor.com/pages/bracknell-book-fair-2026.

Share