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List of Book Publishers in the UK: Where to Submit Your Work

The UK is home to a wide range of publishers, from large multinational houses to smaller, independent presses, offering opportunities for writers across all genres.

Whether you’re writing literary fiction, genre fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, or poetry, it’s important to find the right publisher that aligns with your work.

Below is a list of top UK book publishers, organized by genre, with their submission guidelines.


Table of Contents


Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?

One of the first decisions an author needs to make is whether traditional publishing is the right fit. Traditional publishing offers several benefits, including wider distribution, professional production, and industry connections. However, it can also be a longer, more competitive process, with some authors waiting months or even years to see their books in print.

If you’re uncertain whether traditional publishing is for you, read The Truth About Traditional Publishing for a breakdown of how it compares to self-publishing. Understanding the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision before diving into the submission process.

How to Submit to Traditional Publishers

Once you've decided that traditional publishing is the right path, your next step is to prepare your submission. For fiction writers, this typically means sending a polished manuscript, but nonfiction writers often need to create a book proposal. A strong proposal outlines your book’s concept, target audience, and why it stands out in the market.

If you're writing nonfiction and need guidance on crafting a compelling book proposal, check out How to Write a Book Proposal to Get Published Traditionally. This article will walk you through the essential elements of a proposal and increase your chances of catching a publisher’s attention.

With that in mind, let’s dive into the list of top U.S. publishers, organized by genre. Make sure to research each one and follow their specific submission guidelines.

Nonfiction Publishers in the UK

Nonfiction Publishers in the UK

Penguin Random House UK

Who it’s for: Writers of memoir, history, politics, science, and general nonfiction.
About: Penguin Random House UK is the largest trade publisher in the world, with a wide-ranging nonfiction catalog. They publish bestselling titles in memoir, history, political analysis, science, and current events, often focusing on books that appeal to both general and specialized audiences.
Submission requirements: Penguin Random House does not accept unsolicited submissions. Authors must submit through a literary agent.
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Profile Books

Who it’s for: Writers of narrative nonfiction, history, business, and current affairs.
About: Profile Books is a leading independent UK publisher of nonfiction, known for publishing engaging and intelligent works across various subjects, including history, politics, business, and popular culture. They are known for their innovative approach and seek authors with distinctive, thoughtful voices.
Submission requirements: Profile Books does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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Icon Books

Who it’s for: Writers of accessible nonfiction, covering science, psychology, history, politics, and self-help.
About: Icon Books is well-known for its focus on making complex subjects accessible to general readers. Their nonfiction titles span a wide array of topics, including history, science, psychology, and self-help, often aiming to make big ideas comprehensible to a wide audience.
Submission requirements: Icon Books accepts unsolicited nonfiction proposals via email. Writers should submit a synopsis, sample chapters, and an author bio.
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Bloomsbury Publishing

Who it’s for: Writers of literary nonfiction, history, memoir, and travel.
About: Bloomsbury Publishing is a major independent publisher with a renowned list of literary nonfiction titles. They publish works across various subjects, including history, biography, memoir, and travel writing, with a strong emphasis on quality and storytelling.
Submission requirements: Bloomsbury does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors must submit via a literary agent.
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Faber & Faber

Who it’s for: Writers of literary nonfiction, history, memoir, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Faber & Faber is an independent publisher with a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality literary and narrative nonfiction. They focus on publishing books that push boundaries and cover meaningful topics, particularly in history, memoir, and politics.
Submission requirements: Faber & Faber does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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Hodder & Stoughton

Who it’s for: Writers of history, memoir, self-help, and inspirational nonfiction.
About: Hodder & Stoughton is a prominent UK publisher, known for publishing a wide range of nonfiction titles, including history, memoir, self-help, and lifestyle books. They work with bestselling authors and focus on books with mass appeal.
Submission requirements: Hodder & Stoughton does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Atlantic Books

Who it’s for: Writers of narrative nonfiction, politics, history, and current affairs.
About: Atlantic Books is an independent publisher with a focus on narrative nonfiction, particularly in politics, history, and current affairs. Their books aim to engage readers with contemporary issues and spark meaningful discussions.
Submission requirements: Atlantic Books does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors must submit through a literary agent.
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Little, Brown Book Group

Who it’s for: Writers of memoir, self-help, business, and popular science.
About: Little, Brown is a respected UK publisher known for their broad range of nonfiction, including memoir, self-help, business, and popular science. They publish books that appeal to general readers and often feature bestselling authors.
Submission requirements: Little, Brown does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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John Murray Press

Who it’s for: Writers of history, biography, science, and narrative nonfiction.
About: John Murray Press is a highly regarded publisher within the Hachette Group, known for its nonfiction titles in history, biography, science, and memoir. They have published a number of critically acclaimed and bestselling nonfiction works.
Submission requirements: John Murray Press does not accept unsolicited submissions. Authors must submit through a literary agent.
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Ebury Publishing

Who it’s for: Writers of lifestyle, self-help, memoir, and popular culture.
About: Ebury Publishing is part of Penguin Random House and specializes in nonfiction books that cover lifestyle, self-help, memoir, and popular culture. They are known for publishing books with broad commercial appeal, including health, wellness, and inspirational stories.
Submission requirements: Ebury does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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Verso Books

Who it’s for: Writers of radical politics, philosophy, and social issues.
About: Verso Books is an independent publisher with a focus on radical politics, philosophy, and social justice. They publish thought-provoking works that challenge conventional ideas and address critical social issues.
Submission requirements: Verso Books accepts submissions through literary agents or directly from authors. Writers should submit a detailed proposal, sample chapters, and an author bio via email.
>> Visit their site

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Literary Fiction Publishers in the UK

The UK has a strong tradition of publishing high-quality literary fiction, from debut novels to works by established authors. If you're an author of literary fiction looking to find the right home for your book, it's important to know which publishers focus on the kind of writing you're producing. Below is a list of leading literary fiction publishers in the UK, along with details on who they are, what they publish, and their submission guidelines.

Faber & Faber

Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, poetry, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Faber & Faber is one of the most prestigious independent literary publishers in the UK, known for publishing world-class literary fiction, poetry, and plays. They have a history of working with both established and emerging authors, making them a leading name in the UK literary scene.
Submission requirements: Faber & Faber does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Bloomsbury Publishing

Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, historical fiction, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Bloomsbury Publishing is known for its wide range of literary and historical fiction, as well as nonfiction. They publish high-quality, award-winning fiction and are known for discovering new literary voices. Bloomsbury is also home to the famous Harry Potter series, although they continue to champion literary fiction.
Submission requirements: Bloomsbury does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors must submit via a literary agent.
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Granta Books

Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, short stories, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Granta Books is an independent publisher with a reputation for producing beautifully written literary fiction. They focus on publishing bold, innovative voices, with a catalog that includes both debut and established authors. Granta is known for their attention to craftsmanship and powerful storytelling.
Submission requirements: Granta Books does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Canongate Books

Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, memoir, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Based in Edinburgh, Canongate Books is a highly respected independent publisher. They publish a diverse range of literary fiction, memoirs, and creative nonfiction that push boundaries and spark conversation. Known for taking risks on original voices, Canongate has helped shape contemporary British and international fiction.
Submission requirements: Canongate does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made through a literary agent.
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Serpent’s Tail

Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, experimental fiction, and short stories.
About: Serpent’s Tail is an independent publisher that specializes in daring, unconventional literary fiction. They are known for championing diverse and marginalized voices, and for publishing fiction that takes risks both in form and content. Their list includes cutting-edge contemporary fiction and works in translation.
Submission requirements: Serpent’s Tail does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit via a literary agent.
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Salt Publishing

Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, short stories, and poetry.
About: Salt Publishing is an independent literary press that focuses on contemporary fiction, poetry, and short story collections. They are known for their dedication to new and emerging voices in the UK and international literary scene, as well as for their commitment to publishing high-quality literary works.
Submission requirements: Salt accepts unsolicited submissions during specific open submission windows, which are announced on their website.
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Galley Beggar Press

Who it’s for: Writers of experimental, literary fiction, and novellas.
About: Galley Beggar Press is an independent publisher that has gained a reputation for publishing innovative and experimental literary fiction. They focus on works that defy conventional storytelling and offer fresh, bold perspectives. Galley Beggar is known for publishing challenging and avant-garde fiction, including novels and novellas.
Submission requirements: Galley Beggar Press accepts unsolicited submissions during their annual open submission period. Writers should follow the guidelines provided on their website.
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Picador

Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, contemporary fiction, and narrative nonfiction.
About: Picador is an imprint of Pan Macmillan that focuses on high-quality literary fiction and nonfiction. They are known for publishing some of the most exciting voices in contemporary fiction and for blending literary appeal with commercial success. Picador’s catalog includes both established authors and emerging talents.
Submission requirements: Picador does not accept unsolicited submissions. Authors must submit through a literary agent.
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Peepal Tree Press

Who it’s for: Writers of literary fiction, poetry, and Caribbean/British Caribbean literature.
About: Peepal Tree Press is an independent publisher that focuses on Caribbean and Black British writing. They publish a wide range of literary fiction, poetry, and nonfiction with an emphasis on works that explore themes of diaspora, identity, and heritage. Peepal Tree is known for publishing critically acclaimed works from underrepresented voices.
Submission requirements: Peepal Tree Press accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Writers should submit a detailed synopsis, sample chapters, and a bio.
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Genre Fiction Publishers in the UK

Genre Fiction Publishers in the UK

The UK is home to many reputable publishers that specialize in genre fiction, offering opportunities for writers of science fiction, fantasy, romance, crime, thriller, and horror. These publishers focus on delivering entertaining and high-quality stories for dedicated genre readers. Below is a list of top genre fiction publishers in the UK, along with details on what they publish and how to submit your work.

Gollancz

Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and horror.
About: Gollancz is one of the most renowned UK publishers specializing in science fiction and fantasy. Part of the Orion Publishing Group, they have a legacy of publishing genre-defining works by authors like George R.R. Martin, Ursula K. Le Guin, and Joe Abercrombie.
Submission requirements: Gollancz does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made through a literary agent.
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Mills & Boon

Who it’s for: Romance writers, particularly in historical, contemporary, and paranormal subgenres.
About: Mills & Boon, an imprint of HarperCollins UK, is the leading publisher of romance fiction. They offer a wide range of romance subgenres, including historical, contemporary, and romantic suspense. They publish books aimed at readers who love strong romantic plots with emotional intensity.
Submission requirements: Mills & Boon accepts unagented submissions and provides detailed submission guidelines for each of their romance lines. Authors can submit manuscripts directly through their online submission portal.
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Titan Books

Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and crime.
About: Titan Books is known for publishing genre fiction, including original works in science fiction, fantasy, crime, and horror. They also publish tie-ins and adaptations for popular TV shows, movies, and video games, making them a great option for writers interested in media-based fiction.
Submission requirements: Titan Books does not accept unsolicited submissions. Authors must submit through a literary agent.
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HQ (HarperCollins UK)

Who it’s for: Writers of commercial women’s fiction, crime, and thrillers.
About: HQ is a commercial imprint of HarperCollins UK that publishes women’s fiction, crime thrillers, and psychological suspense. They focus on books that are both entertaining and emotionally compelling, appealing to a broad readership.
Submission requirements: HQ does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Orbit Books

Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction and fantasy.
About: Orbit Books is a leading publisher of science fiction and fantasy in the UK, known for publishing bestselling authors like Iain M. Banks, Brent Weeks, and N.K. Jemisin. They focus on high-quality, imaginative fiction that captures the epic scope and excitement of the genres.
Submission requirements: Orbit does not accept unsolicited submissions. Submissions must be made via a literary agent.
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Black Library

Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and military fiction, particularly set in the Warhammer universe.
About: Black Library is the publishing arm of Games Workshop, specializing in novels set in the Warhammer and Warhammer 40K universes. They are known for fast-paced, action-packed science fiction and fantasy that complements the popular gaming franchises.
Submission requirements: Black Library opens for unsolicited submissions during specific "open submission" windows. Writers should check their website for details on upcoming submission periods.
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Hodderscape

Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction.
About: Hodderscape is an imprint of Hodder & Stoughton that focuses on science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction. They publish both established and emerging authors, offering exciting, imaginative stories that push the boundaries of the genre.
Submission requirements: Hodderscape does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Canelo

Who it’s for: Writers of crime, thriller, romance, and historical fiction.
About: Canelo is a digital-first publisher that focuses on commercial genre fiction, including crime, thriller, romance, and historical fiction. They are known for being accessible to new authors and publishing a wide range of popular fiction genres.
Submission requirements: Canelo accepts unsolicited submissions for crime, thriller, romance, and historical fiction. Writers should submit a synopsis and full manuscript via their online submission form.
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Angry Robot

Who it’s for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and horror.
About: Angry Robot is an independent UK publisher of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. They focus on unique, boundary-pushing fiction that often blends genres. They are known for discovering fresh talent and publishing stories with a twist.
Submission requirements: Angry Robot opens for unsolicited submissions occasionally, and these open submission windows are announced on their website. Writers should follow the submission guidelines carefully during these periods.
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Head of Zeus (Aries Imprint)

Who it’s for: Writers of crime, thrillers, and adventure fiction.
About: Aries, an imprint of Head of Zeus, focuses on action-packed, fast-paced thrillers, crime, and adventure fiction. They publish works with strong plots and compelling characters, appealing to fans of gripping genre fiction.
Submission requirements: Head of Zeus does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Children’s and Young Adult Publishers in the UK

The UK is home to some of the world’s leading children’s and young adult (YA) publishers, offering authors the opportunity to reach young readers with a wide variety of genres and themes. Whether you’re writing picture books, middle-grade fiction, or young adult novels, finding the right publisher is essential. Below is a list of top children’s and YA publishers in the UK, along with their submission guidelines.

Walker Books

Who it’s for: Writers and illustrators of children’s picture books, middle-grade, and YA fiction.
About: Walker Books is a leading independent publisher known for high-quality children's literature. They publish everything from picture books to young adult novels, including popular series and award-winning titles. Walker Books is known for its innovation and commitment to fostering young readers’ love for literature.
Submission requirements: Walker Books accepts unsolicited picture book manuscripts from authors and illustrators. However, submissions for middle-grade and YA fiction must be made through a literary agent.
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Nosy Crow

Who it’s for: Writers of children’s books, picture books, and YA fiction.
About: Nosy Crow is an award-winning independent publisher specializing in children’s and young adult literature. Known for their innovative and engaging stories, they publish books that cover a wide range of genres, from board books and picture books to middle-grade and young adult fiction. Nosy Crow is particularly known for its interactive and digital storytelling approaches.
Submission requirements: Nosy Crow accepts unsolicited submissions for picture books and YA fiction. Writers can submit their manuscripts via email, following the guidelines provided on their website.
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Bloomsbury Children’s Books

Who it’s for: Writers of picture books, middle-grade fiction, and young adult novels.
About: Bloomsbury is renowned for its children's publishing division, which has produced iconic titles such as Harry Potter. They publish a broad range of books for children and young adults, including illustrated picture books, middle-grade fiction, and young adult novels that cover fantasy, contemporary fiction, and adventure.
Submission requirements: Bloomsbury Children’s Books does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions must be made through a literary agent.
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Usborne Publishing

Who it’s for: Writers of children’s and YA fiction, non-fiction, and picture books.
About: Usborne Publishing is one of the UK’s largest independent children’s publishers. They publish a wide variety of books, including educational nonfiction, activity books, and fiction for readers of all ages. Usborne is known for producing high-quality, visually engaging books that appeal to children worldwide.
Submission requirements: Usborne does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Authors must submit through a literary agent.
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Faber Children’s

Who it’s for: Writers of middle-grade fiction, YA novels, and picture books.
About: Faber Children’s, part of Faber & Faber, is known for publishing children’s and YA books that combine strong storytelling with unique voices. They focus on both contemporary and timeless stories that resonate with young readers. Their catalog includes critically acclaimed and award-winning authors in children’s and young adult literature.
Submission requirements: Faber Children’s does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Chicken House

Who it’s for: Writers of middle-grade fiction and young adult novels.
About: Chicken House is an independent publisher specializing in children's and young adult fiction. They are known for discovering new talent through initiatives such as the Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition. Chicken House publishes fresh, inventive stories that captivate young readers and are known for working closely with their authors to bring books to life.
Submission requirements: Chicken House accepts unsolicited submissions, particularly through their annual writing competition. Writers should check their website for submission windows and guidelines.
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Egmont UK (Farshore)

Who it’s for: Writers of children’s books, from picture books to YA fiction.
About: Egmont UK, now rebranded as Farshore, is one of the UK’s leading publishers of children's books. They publish a wide range of titles, from board books and picture books to YA fiction, with a focus on commercial success and appealing to young readers across all age groups. Their catalog includes popular series, licensed properties, and original works.
Submission requirements: Egmont UK/Farshore does not accept unsolicited submissions. Authors must submit through a literary agent.
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Scholastic UK

Who it’s for: Writers of children’s fiction, YA novels, and educational books.
About: Scholastic UK is part of the global Scholastic brand, which is known for publishing educational materials, children’s fiction, and YA novels. They publish popular series, as well as standalone titles in middle-grade and young adult fiction. Scholastic is particularly strong in school markets, with an emphasis on literacy programs and book fairs.
Submission requirements: Scholastic UK does not accept unsolicited submissions. Submissions must be made through a literary agent.
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Simon & Schuster Children’s UK

Who it’s for: Writers of picture books, middle-grade, and young adult fiction.
About: Simon & Schuster Children’s UK publishes a broad range of children’s books, from illustrated picture books to middle-grade adventures and young adult novels. They focus on creating high-quality, engaging stories that appeal to young readers of all ages, with an emphasis on commercial success.
Submission requirements: Simon & Schuster Children’s UK does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit through a literary agent.
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Andersen Press

Who it’s for: Writers of picture books, middle-grade fiction, and YA novels.
About: Andersen Press is a renowned independent children’s publisher known for producing beautifully illustrated picture books and compelling fiction for middle-grade and young adult readers. Their books often explore important themes such as identity, diversity, and social justice, making them popular with educators and librarians.
Submission requirements: Andersen Press accepts unsolicited picture book submissions but does not accept unsolicited middle-grade or YA fiction.
>> Visit their site.

Poetry Publishers in the UK

Poetry Publishers in the UK

The UK has a vibrant poetry publishing scene, with independent presses and larger publishers committed to showcasing both emerging and established poets. These publishers often focus on diverse and experimental works, offering poets a platform for their voices to reach wider audiences. Below is a list of leading UK poetry publishers, along with their submission guidelines.

Faber & Faber Poetry

Who it’s for: Poets writing contemporary, innovative poetry.
About: Faber & Faber is one of the most prestigious literary publishers in the UK and has published some of the greatest poets of the 20th and 21st centuries, including T.S. Eliot, Ted Hughes, and Seamus Heaney. Their poetry list focuses on high-quality contemporary work that challenges and engages readers.
Submission requirements: Faber & Faber does not accept unsolicited poetry submissions. Submissions must be made through a literary agent.
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Bloodaxe Books

Who it’s for: Poets interested in contemporary, international, and innovative poetry.
About: Bloodaxe Books is one of the UK's leading poetry publishers, known for its commitment to diverse voices and international perspectives. They publish both established poets and new voices, with a focus on groundbreaking and thought-provoking collections.
Submission requirements: Bloodaxe accepts unsolicited submissions, but only during specified reading periods. Poets should submit a sample of their work, along with a cover letter and bio.
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Carcanet Press

Who it’s for: Poets writing literary, experimental, and traditional poetry.
About: Carcanet Press is a prestigious UK publisher that focuses on a wide range of poetry, from traditional to experimental. They publish both contemporary poets and classic works, making them one of the most respected names in UK poetry publishing.
Submission requirements: Carcanet accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Poets should send a sample of up to 10 pages, a cover letter, and a bio.
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Seren Books

Who it’s for: Poets of contemporary and literary poetry, especially those with connections to Wales.
About: Seren Books is a Welsh independent publisher known for publishing a diverse range of contemporary poetry. They are committed to discovering new voices and publish works that engage with the literary traditions of Wales as well as international themes.
Submission requirements: Seren Books accepts unsolicited poetry submissions, typically up to six poems, during open submission periods.
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Penned in the Margins

Who it’s for: Poets interested in experimental, innovative, and cross-disciplinary work.
About: Penned in the Margins is an independent publisher dedicated to innovation in poetry and cross-disciplinary work. They focus on publishing contemporary poets who explore the boundaries of form, language, and performance.
Submission requirements: Penned in the Margins accepts unsolicited submissions during specific reading windows, which are announced on their website.
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The Emma Press

Who it’s for: Emerging poets, especially those writing accessible, emotionally engaging poetry.
About: The Emma Press is a small independent publisher that focuses on publishing poetry for both adults and children. They are known for producing beautiful, hand-crafted books and for their commitment to publishing accessible, emotionally resonant poetry.
Submission requirements: The Emma Press accepts unsolicited poetry submissions through regular themed calls. Poets should check their website for details on upcoming submission periods.
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Nine Arches Press

Who it’s for: Poets writing contemporary poetry that explores personal and social themes.
About: Nine Arches Press is a respected independent press that publishes contemporary poetry collections and anthologies. They are committed to working with both emerging and established poets and are known for producing works that explore personal, social, and cultural themes.
Submission requirements: Nine Arches Press has an open submission window for their "Primers" series, which focuses on emerging poets. Other submissions are accepted during specific periods announced on their website.
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Salt Publishing

Who it’s for: Poets writing contemporary, literary poetry.
About: Salt Publishing is a well-regarded independent press known for its commitment to high-quality poetry, fiction, and literary nonfiction. They have a strong focus on discovering new voices and publish contemporary poetry that pushes boundaries.
Submission requirements: Salt Publishing accepts unsolicited submissions during open submission periods, which are announced on their website.
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Bad Betty Press

Who it’s for: Poets with a focus on spoken word, performance poetry, and innovative contemporary poetry.
About: Bad Betty Press is an independent publisher that focuses on bold, innovative contemporary poetry. They publish poets with a background in performance poetry, spoken word, and works that challenge conventional poetic forms.
Submission requirements: Bad Betty Press accepts unsolicited submissions during open submission periods, which are announced on their website.
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Verve Poetry Press

Who it’s for: Poets with an emphasis on performance, contemporary poetry, and underrepresented voices.
About: Verve Poetry Press is an independent publisher based in Birmingham that focuses on spoken word, performance, and contemporary poetry. They are known for publishing diverse voices, particularly poets from underrepresented communities, and for their strong connection to the UK spoken word scene.
Submission requirements: Verve Poetry Press accepts unsolicited submissions during specific submission windows, which are announced on their website.
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Academic and University Presses in the UK

Academic and University Presses in the UK

Academic and university presses in the UK play a crucial role in advancing scholarship across various disciplines. These publishers focus on scholarly and research-driven works in fields such as the humanities, social sciences, science, law, and more. Whether you’re an academic looking to publish your latest research or a scholar working on a specialized manuscript, below is a list of leading UK academic and university presses, along with their submission guidelines.


Oxford University Press

Who it’s for: Academics, researchers, and scholars across all disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, law, and natural sciences.
About: Oxford University Press (OUP) is the largest university press in the world and publishes scholarly works across a wide range of academic fields. OUP is known for its rigorous peer-review process and high standards in publishing. Their catalog includes monographs, academic journals, reference works, and textbooks.
Submission requirements: OUP accepts proposals for academic books. Submissions should include a synopsis, sample chapters, author CV, and a detailed table of contents.
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Cambridge University Press

Who it’s for: Academics, scholars, and researchers in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
About: Cambridge University Press (CUP) is one of the oldest academic publishers, known for publishing cutting-edge research and scholarship in a variety of fields. CUP publishes books, journals, and educational resources, with a focus on works that contribute to global academic discourse.
Submission requirements: Cambridge University Press requires a detailed proposal, including an abstract, sample chapters, author bio, and a clear overview of the book’s intended audience and contribution to the field.
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Edinburgh University Press

Who it’s for: Academics and scholars in the humanities and social sciences.
About: Edinburgh University Press is known for publishing high-quality academic books and journals, particularly in the humanities and social sciences. Their catalog includes works on history, literature, film studies, politics, and law, with a focus on cutting-edge research that pushes academic boundaries.
Submission requirements: Edinburgh University Press accepts proposals via email. Submissions should include a detailed proposal, CV, sample chapters, and a synopsis.
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Manchester University Press

Who it’s for: Scholars and academics in areas such as cultural studies, history, politics, and sociology.
About: Manchester University Press (MUP) is a leading academic publisher in the humanities and social sciences. MUP is known for publishing innovative and critical research, with particular strengths in history, sociology, and cultural studies.
Submission requirements: MUP accepts proposals via email. A submission should include a full proposal with an outline, sample chapters, and author CV.
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Bristol University Press

Who it’s for: Academics and researchers in the social sciences, including sociology, public policy, and economics.
About: Bristol University Press focuses on publishing academic research that addresses global social challenges. They publish books and journals in social sciences, public policy, economics, and international relations, with a particular emphasis on issues of inequality, sustainability, and justice.
Submission requirements: Bristol University Press accepts academic proposals via email. Submissions should include a proposal, sample chapters, CV, and a table of contents.
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Liverpool University Press

Who it’s for: Scholars and researchers in the humanities, modern languages, and visual culture.
About: Liverpool University Press (LUP) is a prominent academic publisher with strengths in modern languages, literature, history, and visual culture. LUP publishes both academic monographs and scholarly journals, with a commitment to high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship.
Submission requirements: Liverpool University Press accepts proposals for academic books. Writers should submit a proposal with a synopsis, sample chapters, and a detailed CV.
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Palgrave Macmillan

Who it’s for: Academics and researchers in social sciences, business, humanities, and political science.
About: Palgrave Macmillan is known for publishing scholarly research in the social sciences and humanities, including political science, business, and education. They are part of Springer Nature and focus on cutting-edge research, critical theory, and interdisciplinary studies.
Submission requirements: Palgrave Macmillan accepts academic proposals. Writers should submit a detailed proposal, including an abstract, author bio, sample chapters, and a description of the target audience and market.
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Routledge (Taylor & Francis)

Who it’s for: Academics, scholars, and researchers in a wide range of academic disciplines, including the arts, humanities, social sciences, and STEM.
About: Routledge is part of the Taylor & Francis Group and is one of the largest academic publishers in the world. They publish books, journals, and digital resources across many academic disciplines, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation in the arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Submission requirements: Routledge accepts book proposals via email. Submissions should include a detailed proposal, sample chapters, and a description of the book’s contribution to the field and intended readership.
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UCL Press

Who it’s for: Academics and researchers in a wide range of fields, with a focus on open-access publishing.
About: UCL Press is the world’s first fully open-access university press, publishing research that is freely available to readers. They publish books and journals in many fields, including humanities, social sciences, health, and technology, with a commitment to making academic research widely accessible.
Submission requirements: UCL Press accepts academic proposals via email. Submissions should include a proposal, sample chapters, and a description of the open-access model’s suitability for the project.
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University of Wales Press

Who it’s for: Scholars in history, literature, Welsh studies, and Celtic studies.
About: University of Wales Press (UWP) is a leading academic publisher that specializes in Welsh and Celtic studies, as well as history and literature. They publish scholarly monographs, reference works, and academic journals that contribute to the study of Welsh culture, history, and language.
Submission requirements: UWP accepts academic book proposals. Writers should submit a synopsis, author bio, sample chapters, and a clear outline of the project’s academic contribution.
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Finding the Right Publisher for Your Work

Choosing the right publisher, especially within the specialized world of academic and genre-specific publishing, can make a significant difference in your book's success.

Whether you’re submitting poetry, literary fiction, genre fiction, nonfiction, or scholarly works, knowing where your manuscript fits best is crucial. Each publisher on this list offers unique opportunities for writers, and many have specific submission guidelines that should be followed carefully.

Before submitting, it’s essential to research each press thoroughly, ensuring your work aligns with their catalog and mission. Many publishers require literary agents for submissions, particularly the larger ones, while smaller presses may accept unsolicited manuscripts or have contests for new writers. Getting these details right is key to ensuring your work gets the attention it deserves.

Feeling unsure about where to begin or need guidance on preparing your submission? Book a consultation with me, and I will help you navigate the publishing process, craft a compelling submission, and find the best fit for your manuscript.

Let’s get your work in front of the right publishers—schedule your consultation today!

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Leandre Larouche

Article by Leandre Larouche

Leandre Larouche is a writer, coach, and the founder of Trivium Writing.