From book clubs to U3A groups to play readings in Scotland’s smallest theatre, there is a whole range of reading groups across our region.
If you’re interested in joining any of the groups, or if you know of a group that we haven’t included (or spot any out of date information), please get in touch using the contact form provided.
Annandale and Eskdale
Annan Reading Group
A council-run reading group which meets regularly at Annan Library.
Solla Reading Group (Gretna)
This group meets on alternate Mondays at the Richard Greenhow Centre in Gretna.
Nithsdale
Dumfries Women’s Reading Circle
A group started by Glasgow Women’s Library, this does not follow the usual format where all members read the same book, but members bring along their own favourite stories, poems or books to share.
The group meets on the last Wednesday of the month at 6-7:30pm at the North West Resource Centre, College Drive, Dumfries.
Open Book with Em Strang (Dumfries)
A shared reading group that gets together to read aloud as well as discuss stories and poems. No previous knowledge of literature is required. All ages are welcome, as well as non-native speakers of English. If you don’t fancy reading, you are welcome to just go along and listen!
The group meets on the first Monday of every month at 5:30-6:30pm at The Stove, Dumfries. Meetings are free to attend.
For details of the next meeting, visit The Stove’s events page.
Poetry Lovers (Dumfries)
A group for the reading and discussion of poetry for pleasure. No experience required, just enthusiasm.
The group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at 2- 4pm in group members’ homes. This is a U3A members’ only group and there is currently a waiting list to join.
Stewartry
Castle Douglas Book Group
This book group meets on the third Thursday of each month, 8-10pm in the Crown Hotel, to talk books and socialise. All are welcome.
Kirkcudbright Literary Society
This society holds meetings on a literary topic, either with an invited speaker or through members’ discussion. Teas/coffees and informal discussion afterwards.
The group meets monthly on Tuesdays at 7:30pm, between October and March, at Broughton House, Kirkcudbright.
Wigtownshire
Open Book (Stranraer)
A shared reading group that gets together to read aloud as well as discuss stories and poems. No previous knowledge of literature is required. All ages are welcome, as well as non-native speakers of English. If you don’t fancy reading, you are welcome to just go along and listen!
Initial dates announced are 2pm-4pm at Stranraer Library on 29 March, 26 April, 31 May, 28 June. Meetings will be held monthly and are free to attend.
For more information, visit the Open Book’s website.
Sunday Afternoon Play Reading (Whithorn)
These monthly play reading afternoons are for anyone who wants to share in reading a script, read different character parts or simply listen to the reading and learn a little more about the background to the play. There is no obligation to read, and no experience is necessary.
The group meets monthly on a Sunday at 2pm at the Swallow Theatre in Ravenstone, near Whithorn. Admission is free and everyone is welcome (suitable for 16+).
Unit3 Poetry Group (Wigtown)
A small, informal group which meets twice a month in members’ homes to read poetry on a pre-selected theme.
U3A Exploring Literature (Wigtown)
More information to follow.
Galloway Writers' Room 