Dorchester Literary Festival

Running from 17–24 October, the Dorchester Literary Festival will welcome 35 speakers to Dorset, with a programme that ranges from world history and politics to fiction, memoir, nature, food, adventure and current affairs.
Among this year's headline names is Julian Fellowes, creator of Downton Abbey, who will reflect on a career spanning Oscar-winning screenwriting, bestselling novels and one of Britain's most successful television dramas.
Much-loved actress Alison Steadman will discuss her candid memoir Out of Character, offering audiences an intimate look behind one of Britain's most distinguished acting careers.
Internationally acclaimed author Jung Chang returns with Fly Wild Swans: My Mother, Myself and China, a deeply personal account of three generations of women living through modern Chinese history.
Former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will explore Britain's economic future in a timely discussion inspired by his new book Can We Be Rich Again? while leading educator Sir Anthony Seldon appears in two thought-provoking events, examining political leadership and a compelling walk to Auschwitz.

History lovers are particularly well served this year. Andrew Lownie lifts the lid on Britain's most controversial royal dynasty in Entitled, while Damien Lewis, Jonathan Fennell and David Lascelles reveal remarkable untold stories from the Second World War.

Current affairs remain firmly on the agenda. Journalist Martin Sixsmith investigates Vladimir Putin's hidden wealth in Suing the Kremlin, while broadcaster and journalist Samira Ahmed, commentator Simon Jenkins and psychologist Frank Tallis offer fresh perspectives on politics, society and aging well.

The festival celebrates the natural world with environmentalist Tony Juniper, explorer Charlie Walker, meteorologist Laura Tobin, travel writer Brian Jackman and geologist Anjana Khatwa. Fiction-lovers will enjoy bestselling novelist Victoria Hislop discussing her latest novel inspired by Greece, The Wine Dark Sea and Kathy Lette talking about her hilarious new novel Sisterhood Rules.

A hallmark of the Dorchester Literary Festival is its emphasis on conversation. Rather than traditional lectures, audiences enjoy in-depth interviews led by an experienced team of broadcasters, journalists and authors. Throughout the week, speakers will be interviewed by respected names including Kate Adie, Danny Danziger, Steve Harris, Jenny Devitt, Vanessa Berridge, Michael McCarthy, Sam Fraser and Lulu Taylor, creating insightful and entertaining discussions that have become a defining feature of the festival.

Festival Director Janet Gleeson said:

"Every year we aim to create a programme that brings together internationally renowned authors alongside fascinating new voices, covering subjects that entertain, challenge and inspire. We are delighted to welcome such an extraordinary collection of speakers to Dorchester this October."

Alongside its acclaimed programme of author events, the festival includes children's activities, workshops, poetry, and schools’ events, reinforcing its reputation as one of the country's most welcoming literary festivals. The festival also continues to support Weldmar Hospicecare, raising vital funds through its events and collections.

Tickets go on sale to Festival Friends from 17 August, with general booking opening on 31 August 2026. Early booking is recommended, as many events sell out well in advance.

Event Website:
Dorchester Literary Festival