Events
Writers' Group
We are a cosy group that meet and give friendly and useful criticism of each others work, the evening of every last Thursday of the month from 7:00pm at October Books. However in September 2025, we'll be meeting elsewhere - meet at 6:55 outside the front door if you're new or join the mailing list for updates!
Writers of all styles, experience and ability are welcome. You are invited to submit your work in advance of a meeting, so that everyone has the opportunity to read ahead of time. Booking is not required, but there is a £5 charge on the door, to help us keep running amazing events like these.
Poetry Open Mic Night September
Hosted by Amelia Simpson on the 3rd Friday of every month. Join us whether you're a seasoned poet or this is your first time sharing your work <3 Arrive by 6:45pm as we will start at 7pm sharp! Amelia will take your name on the door if you would like to perform. Any performances are welcome but times must not exceed 10 minutes, this is to give everyone ample opportunity and time. We are open to all poetry, prose, spoken work, and short stories.
October Books Sustainability tour
Curious how a high street space can be more sustainable? This hour long tour will explore the multifaceted sustainability features of October Books, which will include our solar panels, thermal mass heating element and our community space and garden. We will also host a discussion of the community finance features of the business.
Saturday 20th September 11.30 to 12.30pm
An Evening with Carole Burns and Craig Jordan-Baker
Join us on a discussion for the newly published Brick Dust, as author Craig Jordan-Baker discusses the making of the book with Carole Burns. Brick Dust is a darkly comic, multi-layered family saga about memory, identity, and the stories we cling to.
A Musical Wander with Glenn Fosbraey and Daniel Ash
Glenn Fosbraey and Daniel Ash will jointly present their new work on a night of musical wonder. As Glenn presents his new book, Reading Song Lyrics, Daniel Ash will be playing songs from his new album, Upstairs To Finish A Dream!
Ticket price redeemable with purchases of Reading Song Lyrics
Bring Your Own Book – October Books’ Monthly Book Club
Join us for the second session of our book club on Saturday 27th of September at 11am!
This friendly, informal group is open to anyone aged 18+.
Just bring along a book you’ve read — one you loved, hated, or are still thinking about — and be ready to chat about it over a slice of cake. Don't worry if you don't have the physical book to bring, we'll hand you a piece of paper to write the title in!
Each session will run for around an hour and a half and is all about sharing stories, discovering new reads, and connecting with others who love books in all their forms.
No pressure, no set reading list — just good conversations.
Come along and bring your book!
A Night with Esther Swift: Poetry in Music
Join us in person for a unique musical and poetic experience with Esther Swift, a prolific, boldly innovative harpist, composer and singer.
In harmony with our bookshop setting, she focuses on poems that she has been commissioned to transform into music, performing works by Carol Ann Duffy, Edwin Morgan, Rachel McCrum and Jackie Kay, among others.
“Björk-esque” ★★★★★ - Edinburgh Reporter
"Esther Swift is a monster musician. Be Very afraid” - Chris Wood
Regular Community Events
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Mondays - Veg Out Cafe
More info hereA pop-up vegan community cafe, using food waste. Pay what you feel.
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Tuesday - Radical Reading Group
More info hereSecond Tuesday of the month, 7.30pm - 9pm. Discussing radical and revolutionary ideas through the medium of chapters and short texts.
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Wednesday - Quaker Meeting
Email for DetailsThird Wednesday of the month, 6.15pm - 7pm. Everyone welcome
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Friday - Co-working Space
Catch up with your work in the cosy and well equipped bookshop environment. £5 for the whole day.
Check our online calendar before visiting, as occasionally we may have a private hire. -
Saturday - Collage Club
3:30 - 5:30pm. Materials provided. £5. Cut, stick and make whatever you want.
