Full Programme Announced

Shipston Bookfest is back this autumn, and we've packed the programme with bestselling authors, poets and local talent. Crime, thrillers, wellness, sci-fi and even wine — whatever you're into, our September festival has you covered.

Friday 18 September kicks things off with a thrillers panel featuring Kate Riordan and Claire Quinn, talking psychological suspense in atmospheric settings.

Saturday 19 is a full day out: bestselling author and actress Caroline Quentin brings Drawn to Nature to town, a beautifully illustrated love letter to the outdoors; Paul Declerck hosts a wine masterclass at Sheldon's Wine Cellars (complimentary glass included); and the evening belongs to homegrown talent with our Local Author Showcase and a brand-new Community Book Swap.

Sunday 20 opens with a family event featuring Nicola Baker's charming Whistledown Farmseries, followed by an evening of live poetry with performer Bassie Gracie and local poets.

Midweek brings environmental writer Fred Pearce for S.A.F.E's Green Book Talk, plus the ever-popular Literary Quiz at Thirst Edition on Thursday 24. Friday 25 sees the return of our Literary Lunch at The Bower House with James Macdonald Lockhart, followed by an evening Crime Panel.

Saturday 26 is our biggest day yet — journal-making with Mallory Journals, Matthew Rice on A Year in the Garden, science and wellness with Helen Pilcher, our Sci-Fi Panel, and a family event with Alexander Armstrong.

We close things out on Sunday 27 with adventurer Charlie Walker's On Thin Ice and A. K. Blakemore discussing Doom Painting, her retelling of the Peasants' Revolt.

And it's not just for grown-ups — Ben Davis, the Brothers McLeod, Cat Weatherill and Memorhyme are visiting Shipston Primary and High Schools throughout the week, with Calypso Kids rounding things off for families on Sunday 27.

None of this happens without our sponsors, partners, volunteers, and everyone who buys a ticket and shows up. Whether you're a lifelong reader, an aspiring writer, or simply curious to hear fascinating people tell their stories, there's something in this year's programme for everyone.

Full details and tickets are on the Bookfest website here— some events have limited capacity, so booking early is a good idea. We can't wait to welcome you back this September.