Publishers in Nottingham continue to support strong writers, smart ideas, and quality books, and we have worked long enough in publishing to see which companies truly help authors grow. Nottingham has a rich writing culture, and the city supports fiction, poetry, academic work, and professional titles.
This guide shares clear, honest insights from real experience. Every company listed operates in the UK and works with serious authors. If you want reliable publishers in Nottingham, this list gives you a solid starting point.
Top 10 Publishers in Nottingham 2026 – Quick Reference Table
| Company Name | Best For | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Estorytellers | Authors wanting guidance, transparency, and creative control | Hybrid publishing with clear timelines, editing, design, and distribution |
| Five Leaves Publications | Writers focused on meaningful, long-term literary value | Fiction, social history, and culturally reflective writing |
| Shoestring Press | Poets and community-driven writers | Poetry with strong voice, simplicity, and local focus |
| Nottingham University Press | Researchers and academic authors | Peer-reviewed scholarly and educational publishing |
| HMD Publishing | Authors wanting professional services without losing rights | Editing, design, marketing, and multi-format publishing services |
| Candlestick Press | Poets seeking everyday readers and gift-friendly formats | Themed poetry pamphlets and wide retail distribution |
| Spokesman Books | Authors with strong social or political viewpoints | Political, cultural, and socially aware nonfiction |
| Nottingham City of Literature | Emerging and local writers | Anthologies, literary projects, and community publishing |
| Hachette UK | Established authors seeking wide commercial reach | Large-scale fiction and nonfiction trade publishing |
| Leftlion Magazine | Writers building credibility and local visibility | Arts, culture, journalism, and community storytelling |
1. Estorytellers
Estorytellers ranks first because authors receive clear guidance and steady support from the first conversation to final release. We have seen writers lose time and confidence due to vague contracts and weak communication. Estorytellers prevents that with simple steps and honest explanations.
This company follows a hybrid publishing model. Authors keep creative control while receiving professional editing, cover design, and distribution support. Timelines, pricing, and responsibilities stay clear from the start. Many writers compare Estorytellers with other book publishers Nottingham authors often review. The difference shows in transparency, structure, and consistent communication.
- Address: 1 East Erie St, Suite 525, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
- Contact Email: info@estorytellers.com
- Phone: Connect on WhatsApp
- Official Website: https://estorytellers.com/us/
2. Five Leaves Publications
Five Leaves Publications has a long and respected history in Nottingham. The press focuses on fiction, social history, and cultural writing that reflects real voices and lived experience. Authors value the careful editorial process and honest feedback.
Editors work closely with writers to shape strong manuscripts while respecting original ideas. The team values thoughtful content over trends. Among Nottingham publishing houses, Five Leaves Publications has earned trust through consistency and ethical publishing practices. Writers who want meaningful work with long-term value often see this press as a reliable and supportive publishing partner.
- Address: 14A Long Row, Nottingham, NG1 2DH, United Kingdom
- Contact Email: info@fiveleaves.co.uk
- Phone: +44 115 837 3097
- Official Website: https://fiveleaves.co.uk/
3. Shoestring Press
Shoestring Press supports poetry and writing rooted in local communities. The press values honesty, simplicity, and personal expression. Many poets feel comfortable submitting work here because the process feels respectful and clear.
Editors focus on voice and meaning rather than commercial pressure. Writers often mention the personal attention they receive during editing and production. Shoestring Press suits authors who want their work treated with care. Among publishers in Nottingham, this press holds a special place for poets and writers who value community and creative freedom.
- Address: FAO: John Lucas, 19 Devonshire Avenue, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 1BS, England, United Kingdom
- Contact Email: info@shoestringpress.co.uk
- Phone: + 44 (0) 20 8525 8800
- Official Website: http://www.shoestringpress.co.uk/
4. Nottingham University Press
Nottingham University Press focuses on academic and scholarly publishing. Researchers and educators trust this press for peer-reviewed work and structured editorial standards.
The publishing team supports clarity, accuracy, and strong research presentation. Authors receive guidance that helps organize complex ideas into readable formats. Many academics begin or expand their publishing careers here due to the press’s clear process. Among publishing houses in Nottingham, this press plays an important role in education and research-based publishing with long-term academic impact.
- Address: University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
- Contact Email: Not Available
- Phone: +44 115 951 5151
- Official Website: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/
5. HMD Publishing
HMD Publishing is a UK-based professional book publishing services company with offices in Nottingham. The company has helped authors publish over 10,000 books worldwide and offers a full suite of services including editing, design, formatting, distribution, and marketing support.
HMD Publishing places strong emphasis on author rights and transparent pricing. Writers keep ownership of their work and choose services based on their goals. The company also supports print, ebook, and audiobook formats. Many authors choose HMD Publishing when they want structured help without giving up control. The process feels organized and clear, which suits writers who want professional output with flexibility.
- Address: 2 Castle Meadow Rd, Nottingham NG2 1AJ, United Kingdom
- Contact Email: info@hmdpublishing.com
- Phone: +44 7490 008829
- Official Website: https://hmdpublishing.com/
6. Candlestick Press
Candlestick Press is a Nottingham-based publisher known for themed poetry pamphlets. The press creates short poetry collections designed to be affordable and gift-friendly. Each pamphlet often focuses on a specific theme, such as nature, hobbies, or life events.
This approach makes poetry more accessible to casual readers. Candlestick Press distributes widely through independent shops and gift stores across the UK. Poets who want their work to reach everyday readers often value this format. The publisher supports poetry as part of daily life rather than limiting it to academic or literary spaces.
- Address: Diversity House, 72 Nottingham Road, Arnold, Nottingham NG5 6LF, United Kingdom
- Contact Email: info@candlestickpress.co.uk
- Phone: +44 (0)115 967 4455
- Official Website: https://www.candlestickpress.co.uk/
7. Spokesman Books
Spokesman Books focuses on political, social, and cultural topics. Authors with strong viewpoints often submit work here because the press values informed discussion and clear arguments.
Editors focus on clarity and factual accuracy. Writers receive feedback that strengthens structure and message. This publisher supports books that challenge ideas and encourage thoughtful reading. Among Nottingham publishing houses, Spokesman Books stands out for its commitment to social awareness and intellectual honesty.
- Address: 5 Churchill Park, Nottingham, NG4 2HF, England, United Kingdom
- Contact Email: contact@russfound.org
- Phone: 0115 970 8318
- Official Website: https://spokesmanbooks.org/
8. Nottingham City of Literature Press
Nottingham City of Literature Press supports literary projects, anthologies, and writing initiatives connected to the city’s UNESCO City of Literature status. The organization works with writers across fiction, poetry, and nonfiction.
Publishing projects often focus on showcasing local voices and supporting emerging authors. Writers benefit from visibility, events, and collaborative publishing opportunities. While not a traditional commercial publisher, this press plays an important role in developing writing careers and strengthening Nottingham’s literary ecosystem.
- Address: Nottingham Central Library, 1 Carrington Street, Nottingham, NG1 7FH, United Kingdom
- Contact Email: contactus@nottmcityoflit.org
- Phone: 07495 548 448
- Official Website: https://nottinghamcityofliterature.com/
9. Hachette UK
Hachette UK publishes books across fiction, nonfiction, and commercial genres. The publisher offers strong distribution and marketing support.
Many Leicester authors aim for Hachette UK after building experience and a clear writing voice. The press works with established authors and well-developed manuscripts. Hachette UK suits writers who want wide exposure and professional backing. Its scale and reach make it a major goal for authors ready for trade publishing.
- Address: Carmelite House, 50 Victoria Embankment, London EC4Y 0DZ, United Kingdom
- Contact Email: enquiries@hachette.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 3122 6000
- Official Website: https://www.hachette.co.uk/
10. LeftLion Magazine
LeftLion Magazine is a well-known Nottingham-based publishing organization focused on arts, culture, and local stories. The publication supports writers, journalists, and creatives who cover music, literature, social topics, and community life.
Writers benefit from strong editorial standards and a wide local readership. LeftLion plays an important role in supporting Nottingham’s creative voices and independent writing culture. While it operates as a magazine publisher rather than a book press, many writers use it as a platform to build credibility and visibility before moving into book publishing.
- Address: Unit 49, Freckingham Street, Sneinton Market, Nottingham NG1 1DQ, United Kingdom.
- Contact Email: info@leftlion.co.uk
- Phone: 0115 924 0476
- Official Website: https://leftlion.co.uk/
How to Choose the Right Publishers in Nottingham
Choosing among publishers in Nottingham depends on your goals. Ask yourself a few clear questions:
Do you want creative control?
Do you need academic review?
Do you want wide sales reach?
Many writers compare nottingham publishing houses and publishing companies Nottingham offers before making a decision.
How Publishers in Nottingham Support New Authors
Key Support Areas Authors Can Expect
Submission and Communication
- Clear submission rules
- Defined response timelines
- Direct contact with publishing teams
Editing and Content Review
- Editorial feedback before final approval
- Professional editing and proofreading support
Design and Production
- Cover design assistance
- Interior layout and formatting support
Publishing Setup
- ISBN setup guidance
- Copyright and rights support
Distribution and Launch
- Print distribution options
- Digital distribution options
- Basic marketing and book launch support
New Author Support Comparison
| Support Area | Independent Publishers | Hybrid Publishers | Academic Publishers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Editing Help | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Design Support | Limited | Full | Basic |
| Author Control | Medium | High | Low |
| Marketing Help | Limited | Moderate | Minimal |
| Best Suited For | New writers | Serious authors | Researchers |
Traditional vs Hybrid Publishing in Nottingham
| Feature | Traditional Publishing | Hybrid Publishing |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | No upfront cost for authors | Author invests in publishing services |
| Creative Control | Limited author control | High author control |
| Publishing Timeline | Longer timelines | Faster timelines |
| Contract Flexibility | Fixed terms with limited choices | Flexible terms and options |
| Decision Authority | Publisher makes most decisions | Author stays involved in decisions |
| Royalty Structure | Lower royalty percentages | Higher royalty percentages |
| Best Fit For | Authors seeking full publisher backing | Authors wanting control and speed |
Common Publishing Mistakes to Avoid and Better Choices to Make
Many authors face problems because they rush decisions or miss key details. Avoiding these common mistakes can save time, money, and frustration later.
Mistakes Authors Should Avoid
- Signing a publishing contract without a full review
- Ignoring royalty rates and payment schedules
- Skipping checks on editing quality and revision process
- Trusting promises that are not written into the agreement
- Rushing the decision due to pressure or deadlines
- Choosing the lowest price instead of overall value
- Avoiding conversations with previously published authors
These mistakes often lead to poor results and limited support.
Smarter Choices That Protect Authors
| Common Mistake | Better Choice |
|---|---|
| No contract review | Seek legal or professional advice |
| Poor editing quality | Request sample edits before signing |
| No marketing plan | Ask for clear, written steps |
| Vague timelines | Get a defined publishing schedule |
| No author references | Speak directly with past authors |
Making informed choices helps authors work with publishers who communicate clearly and deliver real support.
Final Thoughts
Strong publishers in Nottingham help writers stay focused and avoid wasted time. Clear guidance, honest communication, and fair contracts make the publishing process smoother and more rewarding. Nottingham continues to support creativity, academic research, and professional writing across many genres.
Each publisher on this list serves a different purpose, so careful comparison matters. Take time to ask questions, review agreements, and choose partners who respect your work. When authors feel informed, they make better decisions and build stronger careers. If you want clear direction and steady support, a consultation with Estorytellers can help you plan your next steps with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I choose the right publisher for my book?
Start by defining your main goal. Some authors want creative control, while others need academic review or wider distribution. Review contracts carefully, check editing quality, and pay attention to communication style. A good publisher explains the process clearly and answers questions without pressure.
What is the difference between traditional and hybrid publishing?
Traditional publishing usually covers costs but limits author control and takes longer. Hybrid publishing allows authors to stay involved while receiving professional support. Many writers prefer hybrid models for clearer timelines and better control over decisions.
What services should a professional publisher provide?
A professional publisher typically offers editing, cover design, formatting, and distribution. Some also provide basic marketing support. Clear timelines, written agreements, and regular updates are signs of a reliable publisher.
Red flags include vague contracts, unclear royalty terms, rushed decisions, and poor communication. Trusted publishers provide written details, allow time for review, and share past author references.
