Question 1

Why self-publishing?

Accepted Answer

Morgen is self-published, as are some of her friends. There’s a distinct lack of festivals where self-published authors can take the spotlight. We’re not championed enough so this is an opportunity to do so.

Question 2

When is it being held?

Accepted Answer

Currently the last Sunday in April from 2026 then first Sunday in October from 2026, running from 9am to 6pm. If successful we may consider increasing from twice a year.

Question 3

What are the dates exactly?

Accepted Answer

Sunday 26th April 2026 then Sunday 4th October 2026
Sunday 25th April 2027 then Sunday 3rd October 2027
We hope it can then be ongoing…

Question 4

What are the events?

Accepted Answer

April: several panels throughout the day in different genres.
October: a mix of panels plus the nuts and bolts of self-publishing.

Question 5

What are the charities?

Accepted Answer

We are donating ALL the profits made (ticket sales minus venue hire and associated costs) split evenly between: Beacon Villages Community Library; Calibre Audio (both ongoing) and for 2026: Haddenham Community Library, all book-related charities in or close to Aylesbury.

Question 6

How long is each session?

Accepted Answer

The genre sessions are half an hour ~ we estimate 20 minutes of chat, led by a moderator, then ten minutes of audience questions ~ with half an hour afterwards for book signings and/or chat, refreshments etc.

Question 7

Are there electric car charging points?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we’ve been told there are two electric points. There will be a cost to charge your car. https://www.zap-map.com/charge-points/aylesbury/84VN1F7 has more details.

Question 8

Is there disabled access?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Everything will take place on the ground floor, in two of the conference rooms off the hotel’s reception area.

Question 9

Is the venue dog friendly?

Accepted Answer

As dog owners, we wish! We believe* that official assistance dogs are allowed but sadly no pets. *Please check with the venue.

Question 10

It’s a hotel so are rooms available?

Accepted Answer

At the time of writing this, yes. The hotel has 139 bedrooms. The capacity of the festival is 120 so there should be space if you book in advance (01296 734031). Please quote ‘Self-Publishing Book Festival’.

Question 11

Are there refreshments included?

Accepted Answer

Sadly not included. We’ve kept the all-day ticket price low as the cost of including a drink and cake for 100 people was more than hiring the venue! There is a bar and restaurant next to the hotel reception and conference area. We’re awaiting the price of a ‘coffee and cake’ package.

Question 12

Can I bring my own refreshments?

Accepted Answer

You’re welcome to bring a water bottle but other refreshments – including lunch – will need to be purchased from the hotel if you are going to eat/drink on site. There is a nearby parade of shops called Jansel Square (HP21 7ET).

Question 13

Can I smoke?

Accepted Answer

The hotel is non-smoking everywhere on site. You will need to leave the hotel if you wish to smoke. This includes vaping.

Question 14

What are the facilities?

Accepted Answer

The hotel’s facilities include a spa and health centre (with a pool). See https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/gb/en/aylesbury/aylbk/hoteldetail for more details. This may be limited to guests who have booked bedrooms but you can check with the hotel.

Question 15

Tell me more about the bookshop

Accepted Answer

All the authors speaking will have up to 5 titles for sale in the bookshop in an adjoining room at the festival. After each session there will be the opportunity for the authors to sign the books you buy. The books will be available for as long as the author is at the festival.

Question 16

I already have a book by an author attending, can I bring it with me for them to sign?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Please let the bookshop and/or another volunteer know this is the case. I’m sure the relevant author would be delighted to sign the book for you.

Self-Publishing Book Festival, Aylesbury

More events from Morgen Bailey

Discover more events from Morgen Bailey, from Arts to other experiences you might love.

Self-Publishing Book Festival, Aylesbury

More events from Morgen Bailey

Discover more events from Morgen Bailey, from Arts to other experiences you might love.

You might also like...

Browse more events with different dates, prices, and formats to find your next great experience.