About

Gather Round: Monmouth Festival of Stories
2–4 October 2026

Three extraordinary days. One beautiful town. Hundreds of stories waiting to be told.

This October, Monmouth comes alive with stories.

From 2–4 October, Gather Round brings some of the UK's most captivating storytellers, myth-makers and performers to theatres, gardens, historic buildings, the library and pubs across this remarkable border town.

Come for a story. Stay for the atmosphere. Discover Monmouth in a whole new way.

✨ Meet the storytellers
On Saturday evening, step into the atmospheric Savoy Theatre for an unmissable night with acclaimed mythologist, storyteller and New York Times bestselling author Dr Martin Shaw.

On Friday night, look up at the stars and gather round for Alim Kamara, the acclaimed Nigerian storyteller. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, bring your friends — and prepare to be transported.

Across the weekend, discover the powerful world of goddess stories with Sally Pomme Clayton, dive into tales of rivers and water with Corinne Harragin & Familia Theatre, and uncover Monmouth's fascinating past on story walks through the town.

And it's not just for grown-ups.
Free family storytelling, crafts and performances — sponsored by Menter Iaith Mynwy — mean there's plenty for younger story-lovers too.

A festival you can wander into
Gather Round isn't just something you watch.

It's something you experience.
Wander from one story to another. Discover hidden corners of Monmouth. Hear ancient myths, local histories and extraordinary tales. Laugh, listen, wonder and see the town through new eyes.
Whether you're a lifelong lover of stories or simply looking for something different this autumn, there really is something for everyone.

Gather Round. Come for the stories. Discover Monmouth.

Book your tickets now:
www.gather-round.uk