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Free Activities for Families
As well as weekends packed full of ticketed events for children, there are plenty of free activities to discover on site.
Story Shack
The Den
Fun and Games
Sharky and George
Join in the fun with games and hilarious competitions including rocket balloons, parachute games, strawberry bootlace races and Sharky’s Footstep.
Story Shack
Roll up to Story Shack for stories galore from around the world and beyond.
Mural Artists
Look out for our giant books painted by artists in The Wild Wood.
Arts and Activities
Drop into The Den for hands-on creative activities, from mask making to book cover designing. Take a selfie in our dressing up corner.
Adventure Trails
The Clockwork Conspiracy Mystery Trail Age 8+
A thrilling treasure hunt full of cryptic clues and secret codes. Inspired by Sam Sedgman’s The Clockwork Conspiracy
Bing’s Leaf Hunt Age 3+
Take part in Bing’s Leaf Hunt trail around The Wild Woods.
Pick up your trail sheets from The Den.
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop
Meet the author for a short story session suitable for young families in the Waterstones Children’s Bookshop.
Meet Your Favourite Book Characters
Say hello to Elmer, the Gruffalo and Supertato at various times throughout the day.
Family Day Out Discount
Make the most of your trip to the Festival and get 10% off when buying tickets to two or more family events*
Children’s Book Swap
Bring your old favourites and find some new ones on Sunday 13 October, 11am–3pm.
Enjoy the ultimate family day out, with free storytelling sessions, adventure trails, tasty treats from our on-site traders and even appearances by favourite book characters.
* Valid on family events taking place on the same day. Excludes workshops, book and ticket and YA events.
With thanks to our event supporters
Picnic Tent
Marv, Superhero
Story Shack Age 5+
Suit up and step up for a super-powered and fun introduction to Marv with Alex Falase-Koya and Paula Bowles. Design your own supersuit fuelled by your unique characteristics and superpowers.
EVENT TIME 4.15–5pm
Saturday 5 October
Giant Books
Live Painting:
All Ages
Spot our giant books around the Festival site showcasing the talent of both local and national artists.
The Prom (opposite Waterstones)
See illustrator Chris Mould create a giant book cover for his new graphic novel edition of War of the Worlds Special pre-publication signed copies available in Waterstones on The Prom.
The Wild Wood
Watch artist Andy Dice Davies create a giant book cover LIVE! What book will it be?
EVENT TIME 10am–3pm
Supported by Andersen Press, Cheltenham Paint Festival, Faber, Hachette and Oxford Children’s
Arts and Activities
The Den Age 3+
Drop into The Den to pick up your trail sheets and enjoy hands-on creative activities, from mask making to book cover designing. And take a selfie in our dressing up corner.
DROP IN 10am–4pm
Story Pick and Mix
Story Shack All Ages
Michael Loader ’s passion for stories is infectious. Featuring traditional tales from around the world and others made up on the spot, pick an object from the bag and see where his imagination takes you.
20 MIN SESSION TIMES 10am, 12.35pm, 3.10pm
Fairy Tale
Musical Mash Up
Story Shack Age 4+
Author and performer Gareth P. Jones presents a fun-filled show with sing-along songs, fast rapping, funky ukulele and interactive storytelling. Join disco-dancing CinderGorilla, Snowy White or Rabunzel on a musical journey.
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 10.45am, 1.20pm, 4pm
Performances at 10.45am and 4pm will be Makaton/SSE interpreted
Oh Yes I Am!
Story Shack Age 4+
Bobby lived in a grey world, of grey people, leading grey lives, until Mama G came along... join the panto dame and author to discover how the magic of pantomime can change the world. Oh, yes it can! With songs and lots of audience participation.
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 11.40am, 2.15pm
Performances will be Makaton/ SSE interpreted
Waterstones
Children’s Book Quiz
Story Shack Age 7+
What sort of animal is Elmer? Who writes the Alex Rider books? Bring your bookish brains along for some family fun and the chance to win prizes.
EVENT TIME 5–5.30pm
Sunday 6 October
Arts and Activities
The Den Age 3+
See Sat 5 for full event details. DROP IN 10am–4pm
Story Pick and Mix
Story Shack All Ages
See Sat 5 for full event details 20 MIN SESSION TIMES 10am, 12.30pm, 2.50pm
Fairy Tale
Musical Mash Up
Story Shack Age 4+
See Sat 5 for full event details
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 10.40am, 2pm, 4.15pm
Fun and Games with Sharky & George
The Wild Wood Age 5+
Create rocket balloons, play tug of war and enjoy parachute games and more silly and wild outdoor play with Sharky and George, the children’s party organisers extraordinaire.
45 MIN SESSION TIMES 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm
Mallory Vayle and the Curse of Maggoty Skull
Story Shack Age 9+
When Mallory Vayle’s parents’ carriage falls off Gibbett Bridge, she’s left orphaned – but not alone. Due to gifts she’d rather not acknowledge, she can see and speak to their ghosts. Meet author Martin Howard to hear about this ghoulish tale.
EVENT TIME 3.30–4pm
Waterstones
Children’s Book Quiz
Story Shack Age 7+
See Sat 5 for full event details EVENT TIME 5–5.30pm Bear’s Lost
Glasses
Story Shack Age 4+
Author and illustrator
Leo Timmers, with translator David Colomer, show us how to enjoy the world through different eyes in this playful, storytelling event with live drawing.
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 11.40am, 1.15pm
This performance will be Makaton/SSE interpreted Supported by Flanders Literature as part of Flip Through Flanders
Big Animal DRAW
Wild Wood Age 3+
Help artist Leo Timmers create a giant animal-scape by adding your animal drawings.
EVENT TIME 3–3.30pm
Monday 7 October
Grotti
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop Age 3+
Free, ticketed event
Down in the hollow, where creepy tangles grow, a knight finds a lost, big-eyed baby monster. Leonie Lord explores how babies enter our lives in a story event with live drawing for young families.
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 10am, 1.30pm
Scan the QR code to book our free, ticketed events
Tuesday 8 October
L is for Love
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop Age 2+
Free, ticketed event
L is for Luscious Lemons. L is for Lazy Lions. A family set off to the market in Lagos. What adventures will they discover along the way? Author Atinuke hosts a playful, storytelling session.
EVENT TIME 10–10.30am
Witch Cat
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop Age 2+
Free, ticketed event
If Pippin could be any kind of cat, witch kind of cat would he be? Meet local author Lucy Rowland for a charming, rhyming story about finding where you belong. Pur-fect for celebrating Halloween.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm
With thanks to our event supporters
Wednesday 9 October
Miss Dotty’s Potty School
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop Age 1+
Free, ticketed event
It’s potty-training time! Join local author Tracey Corderoy for a heartwarming, funny story about cute animals saying goodbye to nappies and learning to love their potties.
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 10am, 1.30pm
Thursday 10 October
Blue Monster
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop Age 4+
Free, ticketed event
Enjoy gentle and calm storytelling along with live drawing as local author and illustrator Petr Horácek celebrates his new picture book, where Bear learns the power of saying sorry.
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 10am, 1.30pm
Friday 11 October
Bird Bath
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop Age 3+
Free, ticketed event Tweet yourself to the joys of bath time with stories and live drawing from author and illustrator Steve Antony presenting his new series of picture books celebrating toddler milestones.
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 10am, 1.30pm
Scan the QR code to book our free, ticketed events
Supertato Fun
The Whisperling Twins
Story Shack Age 9+
Roll up to hear from local author Hayley Hoskins about her ghostly, gothic novel set in Gloucester in 1918. A thrilling page-turner, perfect to read in the run up to Hallowe’en.
EVENT TIME 4.15–5pm
Saturday 12 October
Arts and Activities
The Den Age 3+
See Sat 5 for full event details.
DROP IN 10am–4pm
Tales of Wonder
Story Shack All Ages
Storyteller and writer Sally Pomme Clayton brings fairy tales to life. Join in with gestures, sounds, rhythms and laughs as she spins her storytelling magic.
20 MIN SESSION TIMES 10am, 12.20pm, 2.40pm
Dunkertons Age 3+
Meet Supertato and celebrate his birthday with some veggie-themed activities.
DROP IN 10.30am–12pm
Winnie-the-Pooh
Story Shack Age 4+
Step into a wintery wonderland in the Hundred Acre Wood, full of snowflakes, sneezes and secret surprises. Join author Jane Riordan to meet Winnie-the-Pooh and friends and discover how to draw the bear of very little brain.
30 MIN SESSION TIMES 10.45am, 1pm, 3.20pm
Performances at 10.45am and 3.20pm will be Makaton/SSE interpreted
Join The Clockwork Conspiracy Trail or Bings Leaf Trail around The Wild Wood
Pick up your trail sheets from The Den.
Do Bears Poo in the Woods?
Story Shack Age 7+
Follow your expert field guide
Huw Lewis-Jones deep into the woods to learn all about bears, with stories about Huw’s real-life adventures and lots of amazing animal facts.
EVENT TIME 11.30am–12pm
This performance will be Makaton/SSE interpreted
Are Wolves
Afraid of the Dark?
Story Shack Age 7+
Follow your expert field guide Huw Lewis-Jones through forests, deserts and the frozen Arctic to learn all about wolves with stories about Huw’s real-life adventures and lots of amazing animal facts.
EVENT TIME 1.45–2.15pm
This performance will be Makaton/SSE interpreted
Do Penguins Like the Cold?
Story Shack Age 7+
Follow Huw Lewis-Jones to Antarctica to learn all about penguins, with lots of amazing animal facts and stories about his real-life adventures.
EVENT TIME 4–4.30pm
Waterstones
Children’s Book Quiz
Story Shack Age 7+
See Sat 5 for full event details
EVENT TIME 5–5.30pm
With thanks to our event supporters
Arts and Activities
The Den Age 3+
See Sat 5 for full event details. Donate your pre-loved dress up and pick up some different ones at our Children’s Costume Swap at 3–4pm DROP IN 10am–4pm
Tales of Wonder
Story Shack All Ages
See Sat 12 for full event details.
20 MIN SESSION TIMES 10am, 12.20pm, 2.40pm, 4.10pm
Bing’s Storytime
Story Shack Age 1+
Join storyteller Lucy Walters for interactive stories based on the well-known CBeebies series Bing, including the brand-new tale, The Leaf Hunt. Plus, a chance to meet Bing himself.
20 MIN SESSION TIMES 10.45am, 1pm
This performance will be Makaton/SSE interpreted
Fun and Games with Sharky & George
The Wild Wood Age 5+
See Sun 6 for full event details.
45 MIN SESSION TIMES 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm
Big Children’s Book Swap
Covered Picnic Area
Grown out of The Gruffalo?
Donate your pre-loved children’s books and pick up some new family reads at this friendly book swap.
DROP IN 11am–3pm
Supported by Little Planet Cheltenham and The Motherhood Society
Do Bears Poo in the Woods?
Story Shack Age 7+
See Sat 12 for full event details.
EVENT TIME 11.30am–12pm
This performance will be Makaton/SSE interpreted
Are Wolves Afraid of the Dark?
Story Shack Age 7+
See Sat 12 for full event details.
EVENT TIME 1.45–2.15pm
Do Penguins Like the Cold?
Story Shack Age 7+
See Sat 12 for full event details.
EVENT TIME 3.20–3.50pm
This performance will be Makaton/SSE interpreted
Waterstones
Children’s Book Quiz
Story Shack Age 7+
See Sat 5 for full event details
EVENT TIME 5–5.30pm
VOICEBOX amplifies young voices, turns up the volume on big issues and creates change.
Exploring everything from new writing and pop culture to politics, wellbeing and society, drop in to free events in the VOICEBOX space throughout the Festival.
With short talks, chats and debates, workshops, music and spoken word, VOICEBOX is home to unmissable experiences and one-off moments.
We’re creating bold content alongside young people in our community and beyond.
This year’s line-up features local and national voices including: writer and BookTuber Jack Edwards, self-help guru Tam Kaur, musician and author Jordan Stephens, award-winning comedian and writer Daniel Foxx, and mental health campaigner Mackenzie Edmondson
Be part of the conversation as we create change from the ground up and explore the issues you care about.
The line-up will be live at cheltenhamfestivals.org/VOICEBOX from September, or pick up the VOICEBOX Zine in print.
cheltenhamfestivals.org/VOICEBOX
Free Activities For Adults
Make a day of it and enjoy debates, workshops, talks and live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and discover on the Festival site and around town.
Food and Drink
Grab a morning coffee and pastry in our Feast Cafe, choose from a selection of hot and cold treats from our street food vendors to refuel between events, or unwind with a drink from the Festival bar to round off your day.
Times Square
A vibrant hub of literary and cultural activities.
Sip wine during ‘Wine Hour,’ relax with The Times Literary Supplement, listen to conversations with Times and Sunday Times journalists and explore the best books from the past 50 years, or challenge yourself with the Giant Crossword in memory of Richard Rogan.
Don’t miss the Times Radio Tour Bus opposite Times Square for your chance to win exclusive merch.
In partnership with The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Radio
The Huddle
Visit The Huddle, for a host of free events celebrating voices from close to home and around the globe, from stimulating daytime talks to great entertainment and music in the evening.
The Snug
New for 2024, The Snug is a welcoming space; the perfect book lover’s retreat. Join book clubs, swap recommendations, immerse yourself in crafts and friendly post-event conversation.
The Huddle and The Snug are supported by Benefact Group
The Hush
Drop into The Hush for activities to refresh body and mind, with breathwork, mindfulness and crafts like candle making and kintsugi. Check the daily activity listings outside the venue.
Supported by The Methodist Church
With thanks to our event supporters
Friday 4 October
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with Times Radio presenter John Pienaar as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Poetry Showcase
The Huddle
Experience the power of words and immerse yourself in readings from talented poets, featuring performances from Sharon Webster, SheSpoke Poetry Group, Kemi J Williams and Monkscroft Care Centre Poetry Club. Compèred by Shirley Halsey
EVENT TIME 6–7pm
The Music Works Presents
The Huddle
Grab a drink and enjoy live music from Pebble Daisy, a Stroud-based singersongwriter blending 90’s indie rock, shoegaze, and dream pop to create her distinctive sound.
EVENT TIME 7.30–8.30pm
Supported by The Music Works
Saturday 5 October
Guess the Language
The Snug
Get creative and learn lesser-known languages as you explore and decode the multilingual titles of wellknown books. Anam Zafar leads this drop in activity.
DROP IN 10am–12pm
Books From... Japan
The Huddle
The Japan Foundation’s Junko Takekawa discusses the best of Japanese literature with Sarah Shaffi.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
Presented in collaboration with The Japan Foundation
The Shortest History of Japan
The Huddle
From mythical origins to pop culture powerhouse, Japan expert Lesley Downer shares a short history of the Land of the Rising Sun.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Plan your visit to the Festival on the Cheltenham Festivals app
Scan the QR code to download it
Follow the League of the Lexicon quiz trail around our Festival site
With thanks to our event supporters
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with The Times contributor Sathnam Sanghera as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Groundbreakers
The Huddle
Longlisted for the Wainwright Prize for Writing on Conservation, Groundbreakers charts the return of Britain’s wild boar. Naturalist Chantal Lyons reveals what it might take for us to coexist with this messy and mysterious animal.
EVENT TIME 6–7pm
The
Music Works Presents
The Huddle
Grab a drink and enjoy live music from Muna Mone, a British-Nigerian artist mixing a range of genres to create her unique and ethereal sound.
EVENT TIME 7.30–8.30pm
Supported by The Music Works
Drop in for one session or crawl your way through the whole evening of events.
Giant Book
Live Painting:
The Prom (opposite Waterstones)
See illustrator Chris Mould create a giant book cover for his new graphic novel edition of War of the Worlds
Special pre-publication signed copies available in Waterstones on The Prom.
EVENT TIME 10am–3pm
Fairytale Ceilidh
The Botanist
Interweaving the wild imagination of the Grimms’ fairy tales with magical ceilidh dances, come and dance your way through the story. Become the characters, happenings and magic of the tale.
EVENT TIME 6–7.30pm
Big Book Quiz
Boston Tea Party
With questions on anything from Dan Brown to Graham Greene, Normal People to Animal Farm, Gangsta Granny to Uncle Vanya, come and put your literary wits to the test. Hosted by James Walton of BBC Radio
4’s The Write Stuff
EVENT TIME 6–7.30pm
With thanks to our event supporters
Into Abstraction
The Wilson
Take part in local artist led workshops inspired by the newly opened exhibition, exploring how art can reflect the world and current events around us. We guarantee you’ll leave with your creative juices flowing.
DROP IN 6–8pm
Music to snatch your feet swift into dance, And words to bewitch you given half a chance... Fairytale Ceilidh
Games Night
Waterstones
Unwind with an evening of fun and friendly competition. Have a go at an old classic or discover a new favourite. Suitable for both puzzle prodigies and board game beginners.
DROP IN 6–8pm
The Postcard Exhibit
Sixteen Gallery
On its opening day, drop in on this eclectic collection of 300 postcards created by a community of artists of all abilities and experiences. Get creative and make your own with help from artist Tolmeia Gregory
DROP IN 6–7.30pm
Reading Out Loud
The Wilson
Oral storytelling takes many forms including myths, fairy tales and folktales. Join our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan, alongside writers Selma Dabbagh and Jodie Matthews as they delve into the rich tradition of spoken narratives.
EVENT TIME 7–8pm
Poetry on Demand
Brasserie Blanc
Enjoy an electrifying spoken word performance from Birmingham-based poet Bradley Taylor. Stick around as Bradley, armed with his trusty typewriter, crafts you a bespoke poem on a subject of your choosing.
PERFORMANCES 7.30pm, 8.30pm BESPOKE POETRY 7.50pm, 8.50pm
Backlisted
Hatchards
When your TBR pile is full of debuts and next-bigthings, it’s too easy to toss the classics aside. Join John Mitchinson and Andy Miller, hosts of top-rated podcast Backlisted, as they discuss the books that have stood the test of time.
EVENT TIME 7.30–8.30pm
Curse Writing
Hotel du Vin, Restaurant
Unlock the mystic art of curse writing and craft personalised spells with Krystal Sutherland. Drop in on this enchanting session of creativity and magic and leave with your own bespoke curse. DROP IN 8–9pm
The Mighty Goddess
Boston Tea Party
Subversive and spectacular, these goddess myths are X-rated and for adults only. Follow the Goddess: Creator, Virgin, Lover, Warrior, Mother, Crone with Sally Pomme Clayton’s electrifying and soulful storytelling.
EVENT TIME 8–9pm
Pink Murder: An Interactive Murder Mystery
The Montpellier Wine Bar
On the eve of the 75th Cheltenham Literature Festival, a mysterious murder takes place. The only witness sees a flash of pink escaping through an alleyway. Join this interactive murder mystery and find the pink shirt before it’s too late!
DROP IN 8–10pm
With
Written Off Showcase
VOICEBOX
Written Off Publishing present a night of revolutionary and reflective spoken word performance poetry focusing on the mind, the body and challenges of today’s society. Content warnings: mental health, sex, strong language
EVENT TIME 9–9.45pm
Gothic Cabaret
Hotel du Vin, Restaurant
Join Moth Sanctuary Productions for a night of Gothic romance celebrating the works of Edgar Allan Poe on the 175th anniversary of the author’s death.
EVENT TIME 9–10pm
End the night on a high
Raise The Bar
Raise The Bar
Beefy Boys
The South West’s leading live poetry night Raise The Bar are back! Bringing together the leading names on the scene, expect electrifying poetry from Saili Katebe, Kat Lyons and Danny Carlo Pandolfi and join us to end the night on a high with DJ Ngaio
EVENT TIME 9.30pm–Late
Sunday 6 October
Reverse Colouring 101
The Snug
Join celebrated watercolourist Harriet de Winton to engage with the natural world through the art of reverse colouring. Discover your creativity and take home your very own line artworks.
DROP IN 10am–12pm
We Recommend…
The Huddle
Waterstones staff have made careers from their passion for books, but what are they reading in their spare time? Join members of the team as they share their favourite books and reading recommendations.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
The Shortest History of Italy
The Huddle
Italy expert Ross King shares a short history of the Bel paese, from the Romans to the Renaissance to a Modern Republic.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm
Monday 7 October
Giant Crossword
The Huddle
Sketch Club
The Snug Drop in for literary themed sketching with Jo Charalambous from Gloucestershire-based Coffee Sketch Club. Anyone is welcome, from skilful sketchers to doodle dabblers.
DROP IN 2–5pm
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with The Times columnist Alice Thomson as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Short Story Showcase
The Huddle
Enjoy an evening of captivating short stories by talented local writers, featuring performances from Archie Woolls, Roxanne Fisher, Sabine Wilson-Patrick and Val Ockwell
EVENT TIME 6–7pm
Test yourself with the Times Radio
Tour Bus general knowledge quiz and win exclusive merch
Calling all word wizards! Grab a coffee, gather your friends, and tackle our brain-teasing giant crossword, created by The Times
DROP IN 10–11am
Book Doctor
The Snug ACOTAR, Yellowface, Camino Ghosts – looking for bookish inspiration? Meet with our resident Waterstones Book Doctor for tailor-made recommendations and chat with fellow literature lovers about what you love reading. DROP IN 11am–1pm
Local Voices: The AnonyMums
The Huddle
Described as The Thursday Murder Club meets Motherland, Gloucestershirebased Emilie Castera and Eve Goodfellow present their (as yet) unpublished cosy crime series about two murder-solving mothers.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
Cheltenham75: Our Festival Town
The Huddle
To mark the Festival’s 75th Anniversary, we explore how Cheltenham has changed over 75 years and discuss what the future might bring, hearing from community members about their experiences and insights.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm
What Do You Think? An Alliance Against the West
The Snug Drop in for a friendly chat to explore and expand on some of the themes covered in this event with Guest Curator and Literary Explorer in Residence, Ann Morgan
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with Times Radio political editor Kate McCann as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Exploring Refugee Literature
The Huddle
Cheltenham Welcomes Refugees and Gloucestershire Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers present a collection of traditional stories from refugees and asylum seekers to celebrate GARAS’ 25th birthday.
EVENT TIME 6–7pm
Tuesday 8 October
Giant Crossword
The Huddle
See Mon 7 for full event details DROP IN 10–11am
Book Doctor
The Snug
See Mon 7 for full event details DROP IN 11am–1pm
With thanks to our event supporters
Local Voices: I Died at Fallow Hall
The Huddle
Born and raised in South Gloucestershire, Bonnie Burke-Patel presents her debut novel, I Died at Fallow Hall, a contemporary and literary take on the classic country house murder mystery.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
Cheltenham75: Spa Town to Cyber Hub
The Huddle
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm
What Do You Think?
The Making of A Nation
The Snug
Drop in for a friendly chat to explore some of the themes covered in the event with Guest Curator and Literary Explorer in Residence, Ann Morgan
DROP IN 2.15–3.15pm
Planning for the Future: Understanding LPAs
The Huddle
It can be difficult to imagine a time when you or your loved ones might need help making decisions. In this talk, Cheltenham-based Willans LLP solicitors discuss lasting powers of attorney and what to do if you don’t have one.
EVENT TIME 2.30–3pm
Supported by Willans LLP Solicitors
Makeshift Poetry
The Snug
Come along to this relaxed workshop with our Festival team. Using a range of materials, create your own ‘blackout’ or ‘found’ poems. Take them home to stick on the fridge or leave them behind for us to display.
EVENT TIME 4–6pm
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with Red Box editor at The Times Lara Spirit as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Healing Through Poetry
The Huddle
Join Project 514 415 founder Verity Kerr for a poetry and somatic movement workshop exploring self-healing through breath, movement, and poetic exercises to transform your energy.
EVENT TIME 6–7pm
Cut through the noise with expert journalism and exclusive content from The Times and Sunday Times
Scan
the QR code to find out more about our student offer
With thanks to our event supporters
Head to The Snug to experience local community sound installation, My Voice, My Cheltenham
Listen to stories from local community members and their hopes for the future.
Supported by Cheltenham Borough Council.
Wednesday 9 October
Giant Crossword
The Huddle
See Mon 7 for full event details DROP IN 10–11am
Book Doctor
The Snug
See Mon 7 for full event details DROP IN 11am–1pm
Local Voices:
Paying In Blood
The Huddle
Former GCHQ consultant Karen Haden introduces her new book, Paying in Blood, a historical thriller following an ambitious young apprentice who vows to help his friend discover why his wife died in suspicious circumstances.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
Bibliotherapy
The Huddle
Have you ever had that feeling where you’ve read something and felt instantly drawn to it, connected, or even healed?
Around since the Ancient Greeks, Bijal Shah tells us all about bibliotherapy.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm
The Scribbled Self: Writing for Wellbeing
The Snug
Writing can be a positive outlet; discover new writing activities and have a go yourself. Take a copy of The Scribbled Self home with you to continue your writing journey.
DROP IN 4–6pm
With thanks to our event supporters
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with The Times science editor Tom Whipple as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Opera Showcase
The Huddle
Enjoy a selection of songs, opera arias and ensembles spanning three centuries of repertoire, featuring performances from Katherine Cox, Emily Campbell and Alan Craig
EVENT TIME 6–6.45pm
Thursday 10 October
Giant Crossword
The Huddle
See Mon 7 for full event details DROP IN 10–11am
Book Doctor
The
Snug
See Mon 7 for full event details DROP IN 11am–1pm
We Recommend...
Books for Children
The Huddle
Waterstones staff have made careers from their passion for books, but what are they reading in their spare time? Join members of the team as they share their favourite kids’ books and reading recommendations.
EVENT TIME 11.30am–12pm
Supported by Waterstones
Local Voices: The Steam Catcher
The Huddle
Local author Jim O’Sullivan presents his debut novel The Steam Catcher that sees a Gloucester boy fleeing the country on an adventure that takes him to the continent and back again during WWI and beyond.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
Telling Your Sustainability Story
The Huddle
Join Benefact Group and local design agency Factor 3 as they explore building the story of their climate commitments. Discover which environmental elements to highlight and how to master the art of impactful storytelling.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm
What Do You Think? That Beautiful Atlantic Waltz
The Snug
Drop in for a friendly chat, reflecting on the event’s music and themes: home, belonging, and the power of music.
EVENT TIME 3.30–4.30pm
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with The Times columnist James Marriott as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Books That Changed My World
The Snug
Before heading to The Books That Changed the World, join us to share the books that have changed your world. Which books will you choose? And which books will you be inspired to read next?
DROP IN 6–7pm
Waterstones
Book Quiz
The Huddle
Do you know your Smith from your Mantel... your Faulks from your McEwan? Put your book knowledge to the test in this Waterstones Book Quiz.
EVENT TIME 6–7pm
Friday 11 October
Giant Crossword
The Huddle
See Mon 7 for full event details DROP IN 10–11am
Book Doctor
The Snug
See Mon 7 for full event details DROP IN 11am–1pm
Books To Read Before You’re 21
The Huddle
Bookworm or a casual reader, it can be difficult to decide what to read next. Come and hear from readers of all ages as they share their top recommendations and share your own must-reads.
EVENT TIME 11.30am–12pm
Local Voices: The Hebraica Trilogy
The Huddle
Gloucestershire-based author Christine Jordan introduces the third book in The Hebraica Trilogy, a Jewish family saga set in the Medieval period.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
Gloucestershire
Libraries
The Snug
Drop into The Hush for a range of mindfulness and creative activities
With thanks to our event supporters
Enjoy free membership, endless books, digital treasures, events, research tools, and friendly staff with Gloucestershire Libraries. Chat with the team or visit gloslibraries.uk to explore more!
DROP IN 2–4pm
Follow the League of the Lexicon quiz trail around our Festival site
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with The Times staff writer Charlotte Ivers as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Sit Down With Renegade Books
The Huddle
Following the Renegade Books Proof Party, join publisher Christina Demosthenous and Renegade Books author Grace Flahive for a conversation about the imprint for books that break rules.
EVENT TIME 6–6.30pm
Maisie Gaffney
The Huddle
Kick back and relax with a track list of soulful R&B by local singersongwriter Maisey Gaffney
EVENT TIME 7.30–8.30pm
Saturday 12 October
Makeshift Poetry
The Snug
See Tues 8 for full event details DROP IN 10am–12pm
Test yourself with the Times Radio Tour Bus general knowledge quiz and win exclusive merch Planet
Cheltenham
The Snug
Starting a home or garden makeover? Not sure where to begin or what books can put you on the right path? Planet Cheltenham suggest what to read to make your vision a reality whilst helping the planet and your pocket.
DROP IN 2–5pm
My Global Reading Habit
The Huddle
Our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan talks to Scaffolding author Lauren Elkin about her international reading habits and top global literature picks.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
Storytelling Secrets
The Huddle
Award-winning writer Sharna Jackson discusses the nuances of writing books vs games. She also shares mustread titles and tips for crafting your own interactive fiction.
Cheltenham’s Ukranian Community
The Huddle
Hear from Cheltenham’s Ukrainian Community as they present wartime poems from Ukrainian authors.
EVENT TIME 6–6.45pm
Saint Senara
The Huddle
Saint Senara are singersongwriter duo Andrew Bate and Chloe Gorman. Enjoy an hour of music spanning dirty, blues-inspired rock to delicate and dark folk numbers from the pair named Gloucestershire’s best band of 2023.
EVENT TIME 7.30–8.30pm
Wine Hour
Times Square, Headline Bar
Join The Sunday Times wine columnist Will Lyons in conversation with The Times contributor Suzi Godson as you enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Sunday 13 October
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm Gloucestershire
With thanks to our event supporters
Follow the League of the Lexicon quiz trail around our
Festival site
Libraries
The Snug
See Fri 11 for full event details DROP IN 10am–12pm
We Recommend...
The Huddle
Waterstones staff share their favourite reads and recommendations.
Discover what they’re enjoying in their spare time and find your next great book with their top picks.
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm
Cheltenham Poetry Festival Grand Slam
The Huddle
Enjoy an electrifying showcase of poetry and spoken word from Cheltenham’s exciting new voices Joe Cook , Emma Clowsley and guests .
EVENT TIME 1.30–2.30pm
Badge Cafe
The Snug
Fancy a crafty utopian hangout? Badge Cafe offers space to relax, create and connect by making unique badges out of old books and magazines.
DROP IN 2–5pm
Image: Holly Revell
Discover more...
Check out our full ticketed programme packed with the best new voices in fiction and poetry alongside literary greats and high-profile speakers, featuring...
Judi Dench • Michael Palin
Fearne Cotton • Helen Fielding
Olivia Gatwood • Michael Rosen
Barbara Kingsolver • Hamza Yassin
Salena Godden • Hanako Footman
Trevor McDonald • Aimée Walsh
Ian Rankin • Sinéad Gleeson
Elif Shafak • Neneh Cherry
...and much more Tickets on sale now
Scan the QR code to view the full programme
Festival Village
Playground
The Hive
Covered Picnic Area
The Wild Wood Buggy Park
Too Far Media
Woodland Trust
The Hush
Times Square
Story Shack
The Den
Waterstones Children's Bookshop
Cheltenham Town Hall and Pillar Room, Queens Hotel The Nook On Five, Lit Crawl ...around town
Parabola Arts Centre Hotel du Vin
MONTPELLIER SPA ROAD
Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham, GL50 1UL
Site open from Friday 4 October, 10am
Free entry
The Times and Sunday Times Forum
Waterstones Bookshop
Attivo Garden Theatre
Snug
Dunkertons Taproom 3 miles