Open to entries: Wigtown Poetry Prize

Posted on 2 February 2026 in Latest News

The 21st annual Wigtown Poetry Prizes have been launched – with a panel of judges featuring leading lights in the world of Scottish poetry and literature.

The Scots and Scottish Gaelic prizes attract submissions from many parts of the world – some from Scots living overseas, others from people with Scottish roots and others by writers with a love for and interest in the country.

The 2026 awards
  • Wigtown International Prize: Winner: £1,500. Runner-up: £200
  • Wigtown Scots Prize: Winner: £500. Runner-up: £200
  • Wigtown Scottish Gaelic Prize: Winner: £500. Runner-up: £200. Supported by The Gaelic Books Council
  • Dumfries & Galloway Fresh Voice Award: Professional support including mentoring by Wigtown Festival Company and a retreat at Scotland’s National Creative Writing Centre, Moniack Mhor. Supported by Moniack Mhor
  • Alastair Reid Pamphlet Prize: Winner: Publication of a pamphlet set by Gerry Cambridge

The Gaelic Prize is recognised as a showcase for some of the best contemporary writing in a rich and beautiful language.

Entries close at 12 noon (UK time) on Wednesday 6 May, 2026.

This year’s panel of judges has also been announced and consists of some renowned names:

  • Ruth Padel – Wigtown International Prize
  • Niall O’Gallagher – Wigtown Scottish Gaelic Prize
  • Rab Wilson – Wigtown Scots Prize
  • Ruth Padel – Alastair Reid Pamphlet Prize
  • Marjorie Lotfi – Dumfries and Galloway Fresh Voice Award.

Niall O’Gallagher said, “The annual Wigtown Gaelic Poetry Prize is a chance to listen in to what’s happening in Scottish Gaelic poetry. I’m looking forward to reading this year’s entries to see what’s captured the poets’ attention and how they use the copious resources that the language has to offer.”

Alison Lang, Director of prize sponsors the Gaelic Books Council, added, “The Gaelic Books Council is pleased to be supporting the Wigtown Poetry Competition again, and we hope that Gaelic writers will be encouraged to submit new poems. It is always a pleasure to recognise the poetic talent that emerges from this competition, and we look forward to celebrating the success of the 2026 winners this autumn.”

Full details at: www.wigtownpoetryprize.com