Cheltenham Literature Festival 2026

The Cheltenham Literature Festival is the world's oldest literary festival — running since 1949, it's a ten-day celebration of books, ideas, and debate in the elegant Regency town of Cheltenham. The programme features hundreds of events — author talks, debates, workshops, poetry readings, and children's events — with a lineup that draws the biggest names in publishing and beyond. The festival takes place across multiple venues in the town centre, with the main events in the Town Hall and various marquees and theatres. The range of subjects extends well beyond fiction into politics, history, science, memoir, and current affairs. The atmosphere is literary but accessible — you don't need to be an avid reader to enjoy a brilliant speaker telling a compelling story. Book early for the biggest names — headline events sell out quickly. Many smaller events and free activities are available for drop-in visits. The festival bookshop is dangerous for the wallet. Cheltenham in October is beautiful — the Regency architecture, autumn colours, and the intelligent buzz of the festival create a perfect literary weekend.