The Wigtown Poetry Prizes are now open for entries, welcoming poets from across the world. Established in 2005, the prizes celebrate poetry in Scotland’s three indigenous languages: English, Scots and Scottish Gaelic. Winners are announced at the annual Wigtown Book Festival in the autumn.
There are several categories including the Wigtown International Poetry Prize (£1,500 for the winner), Scots Poetry Prize, Gaelic Poetry Prize, the Dumfries & Galloway Fresh Voice Award for emerging local poets, and the Alastair Reid Pamphlet Prize.
Most entries must be original poems of up to 40 lines, and entry fees typically range from £8–£10 per poem depending on the category. The competition is open internationally, with a special award supporting poets connected to Dumfries & Galloway.
Entries for the 2026 competition close on 6 May 2026.
👉 Find full details and submit your work here:
https://www.wigtownpoetryprize.com/poetry-competition/2026-rules-and-fees