Business Details
48 Years
experience
Award-Winning Poetry Publishing Since 1978
Bloodaxe Books has been a pioneering force in poetry publishing since its founding in 1978. As Britain's leading poetry imprint, we have earned international acclaim for our commitment to literary excellence and innovative book design. Our catalogues feature works by Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and recipients of the T.S. Eliot Prize, alongside groundbreaking anthologies that have expanded poetry's audience. With editorial offices in Hexham, Northumberland and financial operations in Bala, North Wales, we maintain a unique structure that supports both creative vision and operational efficiency. Our partnership with Arts Council England enables us to publish up to thirty new titles annually, representing a diverse array of voices from established and emerging poets across Britain, Ireland, America, and beyond.Through our dedication to quality poetry in translation and gender-balanced publishing, we continue to shape contemporary literary culture. Our award-winning publications, including the Staying Alive anthology series, demonstrate our ongoing mission to make poetry accessible while maintaining artistic integrity. With distribution networks spanning the UK, Europe, and North America, we ensure global reach for our authors' work. Our editorial team's expertise in nurturing literary talent has resulted in over 300 poets published, with a particular focus on debut collections that push creative boundaries. This combination of tradition and innovation positions us as a trusted authority in the poetry publishing sector.
Services
Poetry Publishing
Literary Anthologies
Poetry Translations
New Author Development
International Distribution
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- Internationally renowned for quality literature and book design
- Publishers of major literary award winners across four decades
- Commitment to gender-balanced publishing and new voices
- Specialist in poetry translations and international authors
- Pioneered accessible poetry anthologies with global impact
Associations and certifications
- Arts Council England
What people say
Award-winning publications
International reach
Innovative design
Services
Poetry Publishing
Bloodaxe Books specialises in publishing contemporary poetry collections from emerging and established authors. Our editorial process maintains rigorous quality standards while nurturing creative innovation. We provide comprehensive support through manuscript development, professional design, and global distribution networks. This service caters to poets seeking international recognition and literary impact.
Literary Anthologies
We create groundbreaking poetry anthologies that redefine genre boundaries and expand readership demographics. Our anthologies combine established voices with fresh perspectives, focusing on thematic coherence and artistic excellence. This service benefits readers seeking curated poetry experiences and authors wanting wider exposure through thematic collections.
Poetry Translations
Bloodaxe Books actively promotes cross-cultural dialogue through poetry translations. Our service includes sourcing international works, commissioning skilled translators, and maintaining linguistic authenticity. This benefits global audiences by making diverse poetic traditions accessible while preserving cultural context and literary merit.
People
Neil Astley
Managing Director
Founder editor of Bloodaxe Books since 1978, Neil Astley has shaped the imprint's vision for over four decades. His editorial expertise has guided numerous award-winning publications and established Bloodaxe as Britain's leading poetry publisher.
Linda Anderson
Chair
Professor Linda Anderson serves as Chair of Bloodaxe Books, bringing extensive academic and literary experience to the board. Her leadership contributes to maintaining the company's artistic vision and strategic direction.
Questions
How do I submit my poetry for publication?
Bloodaxe Books currently has a closed submissions policy for new authors. We recommend building a publication track record through literary magazines before considering book submissions.
Do you publish international authors?
Yes, we maintain an international poetry list featuring authors from Europe, America, and beyond, though new overseas submissions require invitation.
What makes Bloodaxe Books unique?
We combine literary excellence with innovative design, having published award-winning poets across four decades while pioneering accessible poetry anthologies.
How can I purchase Bloodaxe publications?
Books can be purchased through our website, major online retailers, or physical bookstores via our distribution network covering UK, Europe, and North America.
