Bournemouth, Culture, Events & Entertainment | Posted on September 17th, 2025 | return to news

Bournemouth Writing Festival celebrates Jekyll and Hyde author

Robert Louis Stevenson wrote the famous novel at Skerryvore Gardens in Westbourne, and an event is being held there.

The Bournemouth Writing Festival is to mark the 175th birthday of Robert Louis Stevenson with an atmospheric evening under marquees at Skerryvore Gardens in Westbourne on Thursday 13 November from 7pm to 9pm.

This is the site where Stevenson wrote ‘Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’, published in 1886.

Wimborne Drama Productions have chosen to stage ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ at the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne from 16 to 18 October.

Stevenson’s years in Westbourne were some of his most productive: as well as ‘Jekyll & Hyde’, he wrote ‘Kidnapped’ and ‘A Child’s Garden of Verses’ with fellow author Henry James.

The evening will end with informal networking, a chance for readers, writers and the local community to connect in the very gardens that inspired one of literature’s most enduring tales.

Dominic Wong, festival director said: “Robert Louis Stevenson’s time in Bournemouth is often overlooked, yet it was here that he wrote some of his greatest works. This event brings his legacy to life in the place where it happened — with words, performances and community spirit coming together to celebrate one of our most famous literary residents.”

Bring your own refreshments, and seating if required, and note there will be no toilet facilities on site.

Tickets and further details available here: https://www.bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk/networking-events.