Literary Journal

Walter Scott Prize For Historical Fiction

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About the magazine

The Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction was established in 2010 by the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch to honour the legacy of Sir Walter Scott, a foundational figure in the historical novel. Awarded annually, the prize recognises outstanding historical fiction published in the UK, Ireland, or Commonwealth, with a particular emphasis on works that illuminate the past with literary merit and emotional depth. Its core mission is to celebrate and sustain the tradition of historical storytelling, encouraging writers to engage imaginatively with history while maintaining rigorous research and narrative integrity.

Submitting your work

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The prize is open to novels published in the UK, Ireland, or Commonwealth in the preceding year. Publishers may submit entries, typically between January and March, with a fee. Authors should ensure their work is a novel (not a short story collection or non-fiction) and meets the historical fiction criteria—set at least 60 years in the past. Self-published works are not eligible unless picked up by a recognised publisher. It is advisable to check the official website for precise deadlines and submission guidelines, as these may change annually. The judging process values originality, research, and narrative strength, so authors should prioritise these elements in their work.

Submission calls

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OpenDeadline · 2026-10-31