Welcome to the Hampstead Literary Society.

Hampstead has nurtured the heart and spirit of writers for centuries.  It has been reported that in 1749 Samuel Johnson completed "The Vanity of Human Wishes" while vacationing here, escaping the putrid air of nearby London. And many have followed in his footsteps including Robert Louis Stevenson, who lived on Mt. Vernon, the highest point of the village; John Keats, who lived at the edge of Hampstead Heath; D. H. Lawrence, who lived with his wife, Frieda, in the Vale of Health; Katherine Mansfield, who lived in a tall, gray house she called “The Elephant,” and H. G. Wells, who lived with his wife on stately Church Row before running off with Rebecca West.

The Hampstead Literary Society was founded to embrace and extend this noble tradition by collecting contemporary works to be published in a periodic literary journal. We invite writers, poets and artists from near and far to send in their work, stay up to date by signing up to our newsletter and help us spread the word. 

Thank you to all of the contributors and supporters who attended The Hampstead Literary Society Journal Issue #3 launch party on Tuesday 30th January 2024 upstairs at The Holly Bush. We were overwhelmed by the excitement, encouragement and support! We look forward to seeing you all again soon.