In a wonderful evening that brought together adventure enthusiasts from around the world, the 2023 Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Awards Ceremony took place on Wednesday 18th October. Marking a triumphant return to in-person gatherings after several years of virtual celebrations, the evening was particularly special.

The Royal Geographical Society, with its historic charm and incredible legacy of exploration and discovery, provided the perfect backdrop for our celebration of extraordinary literary talent, as the winners of the Best Published Novel, the Author of Tomorrow, and New Voices awards were revealed. 

We enjoyed speeches from Monica Jandrisits, CEO of Re-Wrap and Felicity Aston MBE, explorer, climate scientist and judge for the Best Published Novel award, and we invited Ihsan Sim, 2022 Author of Tomorrow shortlistee; Vincent Kelleher, Online and Digital Trade Sales Director at Bonnier Books UK; Ruth Sorby, Foundation trustee; and Giles Kristian, author and judge for the Best Published Novel award to introduce the categories and present awards.

It was a night that showcased not only the thrill of adventure on the pages but also the spirit of adventure that brought together authors, agents, publishers, readers, librarians, judges and friends under one roof. Congratulations to our winners and all those shortlisted, and thank you to everyone who attended and was a part of what has been a spectacular year for the Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize. 

You can enjoy a selection of photos from the night below:

            

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

          

Photography by Adam Duke Photography.