Autumn Escapes: Stratford Literary Festival

Autumn breathes a unique magic into Stratford-upon-Avon — the leaves turning golden, crisp air, and the promise of rich conversation and storytelling. This year, the Autumn Festival of the Stratford Literary Festival invites you to a spectacular four-day literary celebration from Thursday 30 October to Sunday 2 November 2025, set amidst the historic town that inspired Shakespeare himself.

Prepare to be enthralled by a dazzling roster of speakers:

• Graham Norton, star of stage and screen
• Sir Philip Pullman, visionary author behind His Dark Materials
• John Cleese, the legendary comic and writer
• Lyse Doucet, esteemed BBC foreign correspondent
• Mick Herron, master of espionage fiction
• Gyles Brandreth, broadcaster and raconteur
• Dame Denise Lewis, Olympic gold medalist turned motivational speaker

...plus a host of other luminaries including Nicola Sturgeon, Tony Robinson, Lady Brenda Hale, Joanna Page, Martin O’Neill, Sir Anthony Seldon, Baroness Sue Campbell, Jonathan Dimbleby, Lord Jonathan Sumption, and more.

What to Expect

• Thought‑provoking discussions — From global affairs with Lyse Doucet to the philosophical depths of Philip Pullman.
• Laugh‑out‑loud moments — Absurdity and wit are front and centre with John Cleese and Graham Norton.
• Insight into storytelling craft — Learn from Mick Herron’s espionage worlds and Gyles Brandreth’s literary and media prowess.
• Inspiration from sport — Dame Denise Lewis shares the champion’s mindset.
• Broad perspectives — Voices spanning politics, sport, history, journalism, and comedy promise a rich and diverse programme.
  

More than just a series of talks, the Stratford Literary Festival is a charity with purpose. It fuels outreach in schools, prisons, and communities — promoting literacy, creativity, and well‑being through writing and reading.

Whether you're a lifelong lover of literature, a curious mind seeking new perspectives, or simply someone who enjoys engaging conversation in an inspiring setting, the Stratford Literary Festival's Autumn programme offers something unforgettable. Join fellow readers, thinkers, and storytellers for a weekend of creativity, connection, and celebration — all in the heart of one of England’s most iconic literary towns.

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