Poet Laureate Simon Armitage

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Simon Armitage, the UK’s Poet Laureate, as he continues his ambitious 10-year library tour. Each spring, Simon visits libraries across the country – from major city hubs to rural gems and mobile libraries – celebrating these vital spaces for learning, creativity, and community.

This special event marks two milestones: Portsmouth Central Library’s 50th birthday and the 100th anniversary of Portsmouth’s city status. Simon will share readings from his acclaimed works and reflect on the role libraries have played in his life and writing.

He’ll be joined by our inspiring line-up of local voices, including Ted Hughes Award winner Maggie Sawkins, Portsmouth’s own Laureate Sam Cox, and Majid Dhana of 432 Nomads. We’ll also reveal exciting news about the search for Portsmouth’s next Poet Laureate!

Simon Armitage is one of Britain’s most celebrated poets, winner of the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry and an Ivor Novello Award. His work spans poetry, song lyrics, translations, and memoirs, and he regularly writes and broadcasts for TV and radio. His recent books include Blossomise, Dwell, and New Cemetery, alongside his acclaimed medieval translations and bestselling memoirs.
Don’t miss this chance to hear from a literary giant and celebrate the power of libraries!

Suitable for ages 11+ (can contain strong language)

You may also like the following events from Official Portsmouth libraries:

• Next month, 15th February, 02:00 pm, In Sherlock's footsteps: The guided walk of Conan Doyle's Portsmouth in Portsmouth
• Next month, 16th February, 11:00 am, Red Riding Hood with Tigerboat Theatre in Portsmouth
• Next month, 16th February, 03:30 pm, Red Riding Hood with Tigerboat Theatre in Portsmouth

Also check out other Arts events in Portsmouth, Literary Art events in Portsmouth, Music events in Portsmouth.