Projects & programmes

Since 2013, National Centre for Writing has worked together with Norfolk & Norwich Festival to programme a ‘City of Literature’ strand of books, words and ideas into their annual programme.

The Harriet Martineau Lecture celebrates the legacy of a remarkable, world-changing woman by inviting globally-renowned radical speakers to respond to her life and work. Commissioned by the National Centre for Writing for Norfolk & Norwich Festival.

Imagining the City was a programme of virtual residencies and digital exchanges, fostering connections between Norwich and writers and translators from around the world, including from other cities in the UNESCO Cities of Literature network. The programme included a wide range of commissions and events.

ILX brings literature professionals together to learn, exchange expertise and experience, devise collaborations, and build international networks. The programme is a partnership between National Centre for Writing and the British Council, supported by Arts Council England.

Norwich Book Benches are inspired by famous authors and literary works from our county. Enjoy the historical elements of the city whilst learning and enhancing your knowledge of great writers with Norwich connections! The Book Benches are a partnership between Norfolk County Council, Norwich City Council, National Centre for Writing and Norwich Business Improvement District.

Translating Science is a collaborative project which brings seven scientists from Norwich Research Park together with established writers, selected by National Centre for Writing, so that experts within two very different fields of work can gain fresh insight and inspiration from each other.

Discover Norwich of the past, present, and future through Wandering Words, a self-led walking tour featuring poems from five brilliant writers. Experience the city with fresh eyes, encountering the people and locations that inspired each writers’ work.

Norfolk Library Service and Creative Arts East have partnered on a programme that celebrates Norfolk’s multiculturalism and raises awareness of the county as a place of welcome and sanctuary. This includes a multilingual postcard exchange that is available in all libraries across Norfolk!

Discover inspiring and thought-provoking new writing from guests in residence at the National Centre for Writing. From postcards and love letters to recipes and hidden histories, they share fresh stories and perspectives on Norwich that you’ve never seen before.