Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival | 9 - 19 October 2025

The Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival returns this autumn with ten days of big names and brilliant conversations from 9 -19 October. Friends of the Festival can book from 10am on Friday 22 August, ahead of general booking opening on Wednesday 27 August.

This year’s line-up includes Nicola Sturgeon, discussing her much-anticipated memoir Frankly, and former Chancellor Sir Jeremy Hunt, offering insight into life at the heart of government. Chris Tarrant shares stories from a lifetime as a broadcaster and wildlife enthusiast, while comedian and author Helen Lederer brings her trademark wit to the stage.

Founder of LADbible and UNILAD Alex Partridge discusses how his ADHD diagnosis has impacted his life and career and classic FM broadcaster John Suchet returns with his passion for classical music and Ex- Ireland and Premier League manager Martin O’Neill reflects on a remarkable sporting career, and from vintage-inspired country lifestyle and fashion to cosy crime, meet the delightful Paula Sutton of Hill House Vintage, her charming Norfolk home and blog.

Also joining the programme this October are historian Kate Vigurs, and Victoriocity podcast creators Chris and Jen Sugden, journalist Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, and columnist Sarah Vine shares her memoir as an ex-political wife whilst Professor A.C. Grayling explores the complexities of the “culture wars”.

With more special guests still to be announced, this year’s Festival promises an exciting mix of big names and brilliant storytelling.

FIND OUT MORE

Priority booking: Friends of the Festival can book from Friday 22 August at 10am.

General booking: opens on Wednesday 27 August at 10am.

*Friends of the Festival will need to log into their Festival account to make an online booking. Please contact the Box Office on 01423 562303 for assistance with your booking.

BOOK NOW

"One of the UK's best Literary Festivals" - Harper's Bazaar

Patrick Grant
Thu 9 October | 7pm

Paula Sutton
Sat 11 October | 5.30pm

Nicola Sturgeon
Sat 11 October | 7pm

Chris Tarrant
Wed 15 October | 7pm

Jeremy Hunt
Fri 17 October | 12.30pm

John Suchet
Fri 17 October | 7pm

Alex Partridge
Sat 18 October | 2.30pm

Helen Lederer
Sat 18 October | 7pm

Sarah Vine
Sun 19 October | 2.30pm

Literay Lunch with Lyse Doucet

Thur 16 October | 12pm

Join us for our Literary Lunch with Lyse Doucet, the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent. Drawing on four decades reporting from global frontlines and her new book The Finest Hotel in Kabul, Lyse shares powerful reflections on war, resilience and the human stories behind the headlines.

Includes a welcome drink, two-course lunch and tea or coffee.

FIND OUT MORE