Cheltenham Literature Festival 2025: A Star-Studded Celebration of Literature and Critical Dialogue
August 13, 2025
The Cheltenham Literature Festival 2025, the world's oldest literature festival, will take place from October 10-19, featuring over 400 events that include discussions with prominent figures such as Graham Norton, Katie Piper, Sir Michael Palin, and Tim Davie.
This year's festival will highlight a diverse program with notable authors like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ian McEwan, and Jacqueline Wilson, alongside debates on pressing social and political issues.
The festival will explore difficult topics such as global politics, AI, culture wars, transgenderism, and identity politics, aiming to provoke thoughtful conversations among attendees.
In addition to literary discussions, the event will feature interviews with influential figures like Sir Tim Berners-Lee, who will discuss his upcoming memoir, and Sir Nick Clegg, addressing reforms in big tech.
Celebrity authors including Joanna Page and Larry Lamb will present their memoirs and debut novels, with Lamb sharing insights from his first novel 'All Wrapped Up' and Page discussing her memoir 'Lush'.
The festival will also feature discussions with Richard Curtis and Ben Elton about their careers and autobiographies, as well as a focus on Mick Herron’s latest book 'Clown Town' that inspired the TV series 'Slow Horses'.
Dame Joanna Lumley, aged 79, will be interviewed about her upcoming book 'My Book Of Treasures,' a collection of her favorite writings and quotes, adding a personal touch to the event.
Prominent authors Richard Osman, Ian McEwan, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Booker prizewinner Samantha Harvey will participate, with some receiving awards like The Sunday Times Award for Literary Excellence 2025.
Despite funding challenges, the festival remains committed to educational programs and diverse programming, emphasizing the importance of arts and culture.
Supported by The Times, The Sunday Times, and Times Radio, the festival will include debates, panel discussions, and interviews designed to engage a wide audience.
The event aims to showcase a blend of established literary figures and emerging voices, making it a vibrant celebration of literature, social issues, and public discourse.
Summary based on 14 sources
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Sources

The Independent • Aug 13, 2025
Joanna Lumley and Tulisa confirmed for Cheltenham Literature Festival 2025
The Times • Aug 13, 2025
Star-filled line-up for Cheltenham Literature Festival
Wales Online • Aug 13, 2025
Joanna Lumley and Tulisa confirmed for Cheltenham Literature Festival 2025
Eastern Daily Press • Aug 13, 2025
Joanna Lumley and Tulisa confirmed for Cheltenham Literature Festival 2025