The London Magazine Poetry Prize 2026

The London Magazine is the UK’s oldest literary magazine, proud to have published some of the biggest names in poetry including T. S. Eliot, Ted Hughes, Sylvia Plath and Philip Larkin. Past winners include Kathryn Bevis, Jay Gao and Isabelle Baafi. 

Now, continuing that tradition, we launch our 2026 Poetry Prize. We are delighted to announce that entries will be judged by: Isabelle Baafi, Luke Kennard and Dean Browne.

Established to encourage emerging literary talent, the award provides an opportunity for publication and recognition. While there is no criteria as to theme, form or style, judges are looking for resonant and accomplished work. 

Poems must be previously unpublished and no longer than 40 lines. Submissions are open for international entries. 

All three prize winners will appear in a print issue of The London Magazine. Prize winners will also receive cash prizes, and will be celebrated at a prize-giving event in the summer.

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Information

Entry fee: £12 per poem

Subsequent entries: £6 per poem

Student and low-income entry: £6 per poem  

(Must be submitted with a valid university email address)

Membership entry: One free entry (subsequent entries £6)

Opening date: 19th December 2025  

Closing date: 13th March 2026

First Prize: £1000  

Second Prize: £600  

Third Prize: £400

• The London Magazine will have the unrestricted right to publish winning submissions (including runners-up) in the magazine and online.
• Subsequent entries should be submitted separately in individual entry forms through Submittable and not in the same document.
• Please read our competition rules carefully before entering. If you have any questions, please contact Zadie at info@thelondonmagazine.org