A Unique and Historic Festival Setting

The Boswell Book Festival is staged in the house and grounds of glorious Dumfries House Estate in East Ayrshire, with events taking place across four main venues.

One of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes, Dumfries House is set in 2,000 acres of explorable parklands, landscaped gardens and woodlands. Festival highlights include special tours of the house’s superb interiors, and the unrivalled collection of 18th Century Chippendale furniture.

In addition to the festival village with bookshop and cafe, there is an onsite visitor centre, stables café and a restaurant, all contributing to a brilliant day out and an unforgettable experience.

Discover more about the Boswell Book Festival

Now the headquarters of the King’s Foundation, Dumfries House was famously saved for the nation in 2007 by the then HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay. The idea was to create a sustainable business that would help regenerate the local economy in East Ayrshire. The aims of this venture are entirely in tune with those of the Boswell Book Festival and Boswell Trust in engaging with and supporting the local community.

The Boswell Quill and Auchinleck House

During the festival weekend you can also take an exclusive guided tour of neighbouring 18th Century Auchinleck House, the former family seat of James Boswell, which is rarely open to the public.

A sculptural celebration of the written word, the Boswell Quill is the focal point of a dedicated visitor experience at nearby Auchinleck Churchyard, where James Boswell is interred in the family mausoleum.

Plan Your Visit: Some FAQ:

Getting here: See options for travel and transport on the Dumfries House website.

Refreshments: You can buy light snacks at The Festival Café Bar and Coach House Café and more substantial meals at Woodlands Restaurant.

Toilets: There are toilets (including disabled) both in the main house and at the visitor centre.

Dogs: Service dogs only are permitted in venues.

Photography & Video: Our tech and media teams will be recording events and capturing some of the action during the weekend.

Accessibility: Blue Badge Parking is available as close to the venue as possible during the festival weekend.

We are happy to reserve seats in venues for ticketholders with disabilities. Only ground floor venues have wheelchair access, so if needed please check with the festival team at info@boswellbookfestival.co.uk ahead of booking your tickets.

Other Local Attractions

Visiting for a few days? There are also many wonderful places to see in Ayrshire, including Boswells Estate, Culzean Castle, Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Dean Castle.