The London Magazine Short Story Prize 2025
Ends on
Since 1732, The London Magazine has published short stories by some of the most well-respected literary figures, from Jean Rhys and Raymond Carver to Virginia Woolf and V. S. Pritchett. Our annual Short Story Prize seeks out new voices to join this literary history.
Established to encourage emerging literary talent, the award provides an opportunity for publication and recognition, rewarding precision, control and revelation. The London Magazine Short Story Prize 2025 is taking submissions for previously unpublished short stories that do not exceed the maximum of 4,000 words, from writers across the world.
We are delighted to announce that the stories will be judged by: Gurnaik Johal, Ben Pester and Erika Price.
All winning stories will appear in future issues of The London Magazine. Winners will also receive cash prizes (see below), and will be celebrated as part of prize-giving ceremony at the end of the year.
Information:
Entry fee: £12 per story
Subsequent entries: £6 per story
Student/Low Income Entry: £6 per story
(Must be submitted with a valid university email address)
Membership Entry: One free entry (subsequent entries £6)
Note: There is no limit to the number of entries you can submit, but please only submit one story per entry. Entries with multiple stories will not be considered or notified. It is advised that you read the competition rules before submitting.
Opening date: 21st July 2025
Closing date: 29th September 2025
First Prize: £750 (plus free Membership?)
Second Prize: £450
Third Prize: £300
We are interested in a wide variety of topics and many different styles of writing. However, we do find that those who are familiar with what we publish stand a far better chance of having their submissions accepted, so we also recommend getting your hands on a copy of our print journal which can be purchased here from our shop, or subscribing to the magazine here.
If you have any questions, please contact Zadie at info@thelondonmagazine.org