The Lit & Sci ( Hebden Bridge Literary & Scientific Society ) is at the heart of our community, hosting events that entertain, inspire, and inform. Run by a dedicated team, we feature speakers from the arts and sciences with wide appeal, often including nationally recognised names.

We welcome suggestions for future topics or speakers from anyone interested in our work— no membership required.

Saturday 29 November 2025

Dr Anthony Arak – The Insect Crisis
Dr Anthony Arak, Chair of Halifax Scientific Society, explores the alarming decline in insect populations worldwide and locally, and what it could mean for our future.

Saturday January 17th 2026
Pam Warhurst CBE – Incredible Edible: from Todmorden to the rest of the World
Pam Warhurst is a community leader, TedX speaker, activist and environment worker best known for founding the voluntary gardening initiative, Incredible Edible.

Saturday February 21st 2026
Matt Cain – In conversation about his life and novels
Matt Cain is a British writer and broadcaster. He is best known for the novels The Madonna of Bolton, The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle, Becoming Ted and One Love. In the New Year’s Honours List 2025 Cain was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire for services to LGBTQ+ culture.

Founded in 1905 from a tremendous thirst for knowledge, the Hebden Bridge Literary & Scientific Society has long been a hub for curious minds. We are looking for new committee members to help us shape future events, support publicity, and keep this proud tradition alive. Fancy getting involved? Come and have a chat at our event on September 27th! Or drop us a message.