For some people, the idea of a 'literary festival' can sound a little daunting. There can be a perception that such events are only for serious book lovers or those already immersed in the literary scene.
But according to Henry Layte, owner of The Book Hive, Mannington Book Bash has always aimed to take another approach.
“The term ‘literary festival’ may sound like a total turn off to some people, but we do things differently here!” he said.
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Henry launched the book bash in 2023. Set in the grounds of Mannington Hall, the three-day festival has become known for its mellow atmosphere, giving visitors space to listen, learn and think.
“It's very relaxed," Henry said. "It’s in a beautiful place and there is lovely food and drink. You can pick and choose your events, or come back each day for the whole weekend.”
This year's event will take place on September 25-27. The programme brings together people and ideas from a wide range of subjects.
Speakers will discuss topics including Black British music, George Michael, Britain's ancient footpaths and the role of sculpture in human evolution.
But Henry is particularly looking forward to hearing from Delia Smith.
“The beautiful thing about the book bash is that themes emerge over the weekend,” he said.
The festival is curated by The Book Hive, the award-winning independent bookshop founded in Norwich with another branch in Aylsham, and has earned a reputation for creating thoughtful conversations in an approachable setting.
“Each event will engage, stimulate, entertain and inspire you in different ways,” Henry said. “Humans are programmed to enjoy ideas and thinking about them. That’s what the book bash gives you time to do, in a relaxed, pressure-free environment.”
READ MORE: Norwich Book Festival returns with star-studded line-up
Organisers also raise money through their Back the Bash initiative to support the children's activities and provide books for those attending.
The initiative will bring 320 local primary school children to the festival for an event with author and illustrator Rob Biddulph. Each will receive a free copy of his new book to take home.
Henry believes giving young people opportunities to engage with creativity has never been more important.
“The continued erosion of the arts in education in this country is a national disgrace,” he said.
"It undermines the idea that creativity is not just for pleasure, but is essential to a functioning society.
"Bringing children from local primary schools for their own free events is a small gesture towards replacing much of the access to live arts which has been lost due to lack of finance."
He believes readers who attend the festival or support the bookshop feel a genuine connection to what they have helped create. That relationship strengthens local communities and helps foster a shared enthusiasm for books, ideas and culture.
"People who shop regularly at The Book Hive or come to the bash every year feel they are invested in something which is theirs," Henry said.
"Bookshops are one of the few businesses that can truly do this; so much of what happens is a reflection of the people who use it, creating a two-way relationship which feels stronger every time it happens.
"In a city like Norwich or town like Aylsham – or the rural community around Mannington – that builds a strong sense of social cohesion."
For Henry, reading for pleasure remains one of the most powerful and rewarding habits people can develop.
“Reading is an act of engagement,” he said. “When you read it fires your brain up in a whole host of different ways as you create the world you are experiencing.
“The power of words – written and spoken - has never been so important."
For more information and to book, visit mannington.co.uk/book-bash
This article has been published as part of Born & Read in Norfolk – a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing, headline sponsor RWE and sponsor YouGarden.
Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk
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