Calling all travel writers — the Tom Grass Spirit of Adventure returns.

The prize invites writers from all walks of life, whether writing a short story, essay, memoir, piece of reportage, historical investigation, or other hybrid form, as long as the writer reflects the sensibility of the prize.

🌎 Last year saw 682 entries received, coming from 66 different countries
🏆 A panel of judges will decide on the overall winner and runners-up
👉 Learn more about the prize, the judges and the process at www.tomgrassprize.com

Watch award-winning British actor and producer Damian Lewis at the awards ceremony in June 2025: www.instagram.com/reel/DQge0VbDeGH/

About The Tom Grass Spirit of Adventure Literary Prize

The prize is not aimed at the action-adventure genre nor limited to the idea of physical adventure. Submitting writers are asked to grapple with the spirit of adventure in any way they interpret. Pieces will be read and judged on their literary merit and their engagement with the general reader.

- Winner will receive £1,000, with two runners-up receiving £500 each.
- Open to all writers from all over the world who are over the age of 25 and writing in the English language
- The word count is between 1,500 and 3,000 words
- Submissions close: 31st March 2025
- Entry can be either fiction
- Entrants are invited to reflect the spirit of adventure in subject matter and/or style in whichever way and in however broad a sense the writer interprets this

2025 Winner

2025 winner Praise Ukpai is a bold and evocative writer whose work explores feminism, identity, and African cultural narratives with clarity and heart. She writes to enlighten, challenge, and inspire, blending personal stories with sharp social commentary. By crafting thought-provoking essays and powerful scripts, Praise brings a fresh, authentic voice to every piece. Her writing is both a mirror and a megaphone—reflecting lived experiences while amplifying the voices of women and underrepresented communities. She represented Nigeria.

Runner-ups were Jay McKenzie for Bucket who represented Australia and Laura Hall for And Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years’ Time who represented Denmark.

About Tom Grass

Tom Grass was a storyteller and a brilliant maverick with a unique sense of adventure. He travelled the world, on foot, bicycle and motorbike, and lived for long periods in Africa and India.

He studied History at Oxford and wrote in many forms, from novels, to screenplays, to advertising copy, to hundreds of powerfully observed and often funny letters, emails and messages to friends.

Final entry closes: March 31, 2026