The London Magazine Short Story Prize 2026
Ends on
Since 1732, The London Magazine has published short stories by some of the most well-regarded writers in English, 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 distinguished literary history.
Established to support and celebrate emerging literary talent, the prize offers writers from around the world an opportunity for publication and recognition. We are looking for previously unpublished stories of no more than 4,000 words.
We are delighted to announce that The London Magazine Short Story Prize 2026 will be judged by Camilla Grudova, Tim MacGabhann and Ayşegül Savaş.
The winning stories will be published in future issues of The London Magazine. Winners will also receive cash prizes and be celebrated at a 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
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 necessary to read the competition rules before submitting.
Opening date: 28th July 2026
Closing date: 18th October 2026
First Prize: £1000
Second Prize: £600
Third Prize: £400
In order to familiarise yourself with the kind of fiction we publish, we recommend getting your hands on a copy of our latest issue, which can be purchased here from our shop, or subscribing to the magazine.
If you have any questions, please contact Zadie at info@thelondonmagazine.org.