This website uses cookies. Read more about our cookie/privacy policy.

Accept and Close

The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Off the Shelf

Fri. 10 October 2025 — Mon. 10 November 2025

Photos from Off the Shelf 2022

Autumn in Sheffield is pretty much synonymous with literary delights, as Off the Shelf festival of books, words and ideas returns to the city. The festival hosts a programme packed with talks and readings from world renowned authors and poets, famous folk off the telly, and a few knowledgable locals.

Each year, the festival absorbs audiences in topics ranging from pop music to politics, fine art to feminism.

Come back soon for our highlights from the writer talks, workshops and events in the 2025 programme.

You might also like...

Désirée Reynolds

The writer – and DJ, journalist and mentor – talks to Annalisa Toccara about being inspired by ordinariness, making space for change, and curating the Black Women Write Now strand at Off the Shelf Festival 2020.

Rhyme and Reason

For over two decades this colourful, charming shop has specialised in books for children. In recent years it’s expanded into a place where adults too can treat themselves to a new read.

Robin’s Nest

A friendly haven for those new to the world of comics and graphic novels, focused on including underrepresented characters and creators.

Sounds About Write with Sally O'Reilly plus Open Mic

Thu. 20 November 2025

Sheffield Plate, Orchard Square, S1 2FB

A conversation with Sheffield-based author Sally O'Reilly about her new novel, Hagtale: A Macbeth Origin Story. plus open mic for local writers.