The Cambridge Literary Festival is poised to make a vibrant return this spring, offering a rich programme designed to captivate readers of all ages. Scheduled to run from April 22nd to 26th, 2026, the festival coincides with the UK's National Year of Reading, presenting a timely celebration of literature and storytelling.
A Festival for Every Generation
In partnership with the Go All In campaign, the festival aims to address the reading crisis affecting children and young people. A significant highlight is the return of the free children's programme, which this year features a new dedicated Children's Zone. This vibrant space will host continuous storytelling sessions, creative crafts, and engaging activities throughout the weekend, fostering a love of books from an early age.
Adult audiences are equally well-catered for, with an impressive roster of literary stars set to appear. Acclaimed authors Margaret Drabble, Alan Hollinghurst, and Elif Shafak will share insights into the books that have profoundly influenced their own writing careers, offering unique inspiration for festival-goers.
Commemorations and Celebrated Debuts
The 2026 festival will mark two significant literary anniversaries: the centenary of Sylvia Townsend Warner's publication of Lolly Willowes and fifty years since the death of mystery writer Agatha Christie. The programme also shines a spotlight on emerging talent, presenting an outstanding trio of debut novelists alongside established names.
Notable events include a Literary Lunch with crime writer Harriet Tyce, discussing her novel Witch Trial, and an appearance by prize-winning writer John Lanchester, who will share his gripping new novel, Look What You Made Me Do. The festival is particularly delighted to welcome Merlin Holland, grandson of Oscar Wilde, who will present his definitive study of the playwright's rise and fall.
Lectures, Debates, and Local Academia
The festival's popular lecture programme returns with expanded scope. Former Green Party MP Caroline Lucas leads with the inaugural State of Nature Lecture, delivering her response to the global climate crisis. She is joined by Deborah Levy, presenting the Room of One's Own Lecture, and Rachel Clark, who will deliver the State of the Nation Lecture.
A dedicated Cambridge Series welcomes three distinguished local academics—Tim Minshall, James Fox, and Clare Jackson—to share their latest research and publications. Meanwhile, the annual New Statesman Debate will tackle pressing national questions, exploring whether the UK's best days are ahead or behind.
Wider Perspectives and Special Partnerships
The festival's scope extends beyond national borders, with events featuring broadcaster Ed Stourton on the history leading to Donald Trump and John Kampfner's global tour seeking solutions to world issues. Political commentator Steve Richards will also present his stand-up show, Rock 'n Roll Politics.
Continuing its partnership with the British Academy, the festival will showcase two shortlisted titles from the 2025 British Academy Book Prize. Sophie Harman will discuss Sick of It: The Global Fight for Women's Health, and Lucy Ash will present The Baton and the Cross: Russia's Church from Pagan to Putin.
Diverse Programme Highlights
The spring lineup boasts remarkable variety. Gardening enthusiasts can look forward to Sarah Raven's tips for year-round flowers and Mary Berry sharing her book, My Gardening Life. Other speakers include Shakespearean director Greg Doran, Royal Ballet choreographer Wayne McGregor, and author Jung Chang with the sequel to Wild Swans.
The festival concludes with a closing event featuring Zadie Smith, discussing her new essay collection, Dead and Alive.
Ticket Information
Priority ticket sales begin for patrons and benefactors on Monday, February 9th, followed by friends of the festival on Tuesday, February 10th. General public ticket sales commence at 10 am on Friday, February 13th.
