Organised by The Times and The Sunday Times, the Cheltenham Literary Festival is the oldest festival of its kind in the world and has been celebrating the written and spoken word since 1949. Set against the backdrop of Cheltenham’s elegant Regency architecture, the 2026 festival will continue its tradition as a leading cultural centre for book lovers, writers and thinkers. For ten days, the city is transformed into a lively festival town with hundreds of events, from intimate masterclasses to large-scale lectures with world-renowned personalities.
This year’s festival
This year’s festival focuses on restoring the connection between creativity and well-being through a variety of projects and new literary initiatives. Visitors can expect a diverse programme featuring bestselling authors, poets, journalists and historians, who will come together to discuss current issues, share stories and celebrate literary excellence. The festival is known for its welcoming atmosphere and offers both paid sessions with renowned authors and free public events, making literature accessible to all generations.
Beyond the main stages, the festival acts as an important catalyst for the community, bringing literature to local schools and public spaces through educational programmes that run throughout the year. The 2026 edition places a special emphasis on international translated literature and the evolution of the role of digital storytelling in the modern era. Combining traditional book discussions with innovative cultural debates, Cheltenham continues to play a leading role in the global literary world and attracts tens of thousands of visitors from around the world.
Hundreds of events
One of the festival’s strengths is its ability to bring together writers, thinkers and readers from different backgrounds. By organising hundreds of events featuring renowned authors, new voices, journalists and cultural figures, the festival becomes a dynamic space for dialogue and the exchange of ideas. The festival not only draws attention to important literary works, but also amplifies underrepresented voices and encourages the public to “read the world” and take an interest in global perspectives.
Why it is worth visiting
Attending the Сheltenham literary festival is a unique opportunity to engage with some of the most prominent thinkers of our time in a historic and picturesque setting. Here, readers can meet their favourite authors, discover new talents and participate in insightful discussions on science, history, philosophy and contemporary culture. The festival’s unique atmosphere, reminiscent of the spirit of Woodstock, ensures that every visitor will leave feeling inspired and intellectually enriched.
The event is aimed at a wide audience, including avid book lovers, aspiring writers, families and students. With its expanded family programme and accessible pay-it-forward schemes, the festival is the perfect place for anyone who wants to encourage a love of reading in children. It is also an important networking hub for industry professionals and anyone interested in the interaction between literature and contemporary society.
Bright impressions
In addition to its programme of lectures and debates, the festival plays an important role in education and community life, offering initiatives for schools and young people that promote an interest in reading. The festival’s reputation attracts renowned speakers, giving it influence in publishing and media circles. At the same time, its inclusive programme, which includes many free events, ensures accessibility for a wide audience. In short, the Cheltenham Literature Festival is both a cultural influencer and a community connector, making literature a shared, living experience.