The Philip Larkin Society Conference 2026

Welcome to the Philip Larkin Society Conference 2026 at the University of Hull on March 19-20th 2026. We are taking the 80 year anniversary of the publication of Larkin's first novel Jill (1946) as our starting point this year, alongside exploration of Larkin's poetry and wider prose writing. Get ready to dive into two days of insightful discussions, engaging sessions, and a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts. We are building on the success of our last two conferences, so we hope to bring you something very special once more.

Our Keynote speakers are Ros Barber (The Marlowe Papers)and Andrew Swarbrick (Out Of Reach: The Poetry of Philip Larkin). Guest speakers also include poet Ralph Dartford (House Anthems), Dr Clarissa Hard (PLS Trustee and editor of About Larkin), Geoff Weston (Writer and former colleague of Larkin at the University of Hull), Dean Wilson ('second best poet in Withernsea'), Chris Sewart (Staged4Beverley Poet in Residence), and PLS President Rosie Millard (arts journalist and presenter). However, the programme is still in its early stages and subject to change, so please check back for updates.

We are now open to Early Bird registration at last year's price of £45. There will be a small increase to £55 when we have confirmed the full programme in January 2026.

Info: 9:00 – 9:30 Registration
9:30 – 10:00 Welcome :
Lyn Lockwood:

10:00 – 11:00



11:00-11.15 Session 1:
Chair: Rachael Galletly


Break

11.30-12.30 Chair:
Panel:

12:30 – 13:30 Lunch
13:30 – 14:30 Chair: Graham Chesters
Key Note



14:30 – 15:30 Chair: Rachael Galletly

15:30 – 15:45 Break

17:00 Philip Larkin Society wine reception, University Art Gallery
19:30 Conference dinner Larkin's Bar
48 Newland Ave, Hull HU5 3AE, please reserve your place for free via the 'add-ons' booking link.

Info: 9:30-10:00 Tea and coffee
10:00 – 10:15 Welcome: Lyn Lockwood
10:15 – 11.15 TBC







11:15-11:30

Panel:


Break
11.30-12.30 Chair:
Panel:



12:30 – 13:30 Lunch
13:30– 14:30


14:30 – 14:45 Closing words : Graham Chesters
15:00 – 16:00 Library tour (TBC)

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