Mention the Bridport Prize and the eyes of writers everywhere light up. It’s not just the money – though that’s not to be sneezed at – it’s a prize really worth fighting for in terms of prestige and genuine literary accomplishment.

Our mission? To encourage
writers everywhere
We are passionate about discovering creative writing talent from around the world. Previous winners include the novelist Kate Atkinson MBE, Kit de Waal and Kelleigh Greenberg- Jephcott. Former judges include Monica Ali, Roger McGough and Zoe Heller. Many writers have launched their careers with us and ended up on the best sellers list.
We promise to
- Provide opportunities for aspiring writers
- Give new writers a route to publication through our anthologies
- Create access to our partners AM Heath Literary Agency, Tinder Press and The Literary Consultancy
- Discover new talent

Categories & Prizes

Peggy Chapman-Andrews First Novel Award
Winner: £1,500 plus up to a year’s mentoring from The Literary Consultancy through their Chapter & Verse scheme (worth £2,640) and a detailed critique from the judge.
Runner-up: £750 plus a full manuscript appraisal and Industry Day place from The Literary Consultancy.
Shortlisted writers: 3 x £150 plus a 50-page manuscript appraisal (redeemable against a full read if preferred) plus an Industry Day place.

Young Writer Award
We award £500 to the highest placed writer aged 16 to 25 in any category. The winning piece will feature in our anthology, which counts as being published and opens doors with literary agents and publishers. It also accesses other competitions not available to the public.

Dorset Award
We give £100 to the highest placed writer from Dorset in any category. Sponsored by The Bookshop, Bridport.

Our readers
We have a dedicated team of experienced readers who assist our judges. They work hard to make the competition a success.
Get in touch
Bridport Prize
Bridport Arts Centre
South Street
Bridport
Dorset
DT6 3NR
UK