Abney Park and Stoke Newington are rich in literary history, much of it connected to Hackney's tradition of dissent. Join walking artist and tour guide Simon Cole in this historic cemetery and surrounds for an interactive literary saunter through this lit-lovers' paradise, in this bookish corner of the borough. We'll hear about famously controversial writers like Daniel Defoe, Mary Wollstonecraft and William Hone. And we'll look into why cult N16 novelist Alexander Baron is radical, too.

We'll see the graves of those who used the pen to change the world, and we'll hear about contemporary local writers who're continuing the Hackney tradition of literary activism.

Do you enjoy writing? Or want to start? Abney Park is the perfect location to respond to place. There's nothing like a walking conversation amid the glorious nature of Abney to put you in a creative state of mind. So, at the end we'll have time to write something short (optional). Bring a pen and paper and we can channel a little of the inspiration we receive en route. You can share what you wrote/drew, or take it home and work on it in private.

Speaker bio:
Bibliophile Simon Cole (Hackney Tours) writes himself and has been exploring how places like Abney Park can inspire our creativity and connection. He has appeared at Documenta and is a keen psychogeographer.

Twitter: @hackneytoursInstagram: @hackneytourshttps://www.facebook.com/hackney.tours/

From the High St entrance, please meet at the far end of the pedestrian walkway - where the path splits into three
Please bring a pen and paper or something you are happy to write with.
Photo: David Truswell

Sometimes, Abney Park closes (or we have to cancel planned events) at short notice due to adverse weather conditions. If events are cancelled or the Park is closed, we'll let you know. Please check your emails and the Abney Park website (abneypark.org) mid-morning on the day of the event to get this info