Free Events
& Activities 9––18 October 2026
Includes
Family Events
cheltenhamfestivals.org #CheltLitFest
FREE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
Culture is... joy, curiosity, connection, inspiration, the future.
Help us realise our vision of a future where everyone can explore and create culture Please donate to support Cheltenham Festivals’ mission to give 80,000 children access to culture each year.
Thank you for your support
Charity No. 251765
Contents
Welcome We’re delighted to share 10 days of conversations, performances and workshops you can enjoy without spending a thing. As you wander through our free-toenter Festival Village, every coffee you sip, street food you savour, book you buy, donation you make or ticketed event you attend is helping us keep the magic free for everyone. It also supports our mission to give 80,000 children access to culture each year. From workshops to boost literacy rates and inspiring author visits, to giving children their first experience of live music and expanding our SEND and BSL provision, your visit to the Festival helps us ensure everyone can experience the life-changing power of cultural experiences and education. So, thank you! We hope you enjoy everything the Festival has to offer. Here’s to making this October unforgettable. Find the full Festival programme at cheltenhamfestivals.org/literature
Free Activities for Families
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VOICEBOX
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Free Activities for Adults
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Postmarked: Letter Writing Stations 12 Fragments: A Poetry Trail
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Festival Map
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Look out for these icons throughout the programme Workshop Music event
Join the conversation. Follow us @cheltfestivals Follow us and tag @cheltfestivals in your social posts
FREE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
Weekend s 9.30am–5pm
The Den
©A lex Hyde
Make, discover and play. LEGO® Story Building Let your imagination run wild and bring your favourite books to life. Use LEGO® bricks to build a story scene, a favourite book character or a magical world of your own.
Micro Life Explorer A tiny, unseen world exists in every garden. Shrink down to experience its wonder – from delicate balls of pollen, to fascinating microscopic creatures – and watch out for the stealthy viruses!
Sensory Nook Explore, touch and discover in our sensory reading corner. Enjoy stories alongside tubs of natural materials and intriguing objects to spark imagination and curiosity.
Badge Making
The Magic Faraway Tree
Make yourself a Festival badge with arts and crafts materials, from crazy characters to funky flowers.
Create a new land for Enid Blyton’s The Magic Faraway Tree with craft materials and your imagination. The Magic Faraway Tree® and Enid Blyton® are registered trade marks of Hodder & Stoughton Limited. All rights reserved.
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop
Make the most of your trip to the Festival and get 10% off when buying tickets to two or more family events
Browse the shelves, get recommendations from our expert children’s booksellers and meet authors after their events.
The Hush A quiet space in a busy world where we pause, wonder and dream through creativity, storytelling and stillness.
FREE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
Family Day Out Discount*
Little People, BIG DREAMS Trail ®
Pick up a quiz sheet from the Trail Tent and find the posters to discover the real-life stories of some extraordinary people.
Character Costumes Look out for the Gruffalo, Tom Gates and the Donut Squad parading around the Festival Village.
On top of our fabulous free storytelling and activities, enjoy picnic areas, a play area, buggy parks and water taps.
With thanks to our supporters
*
Valid on family events taking place on the same day. Excludes workshops, book and ticket and YA events.
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FREE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
Free Family Events Saturday 10 October
Saturday 17 October
Romani Storytelling Make a Story Shack Whole family Superhero Story Sixth‑generation Romani storyteller and author Richard O’Neill tells a joyful mix of witty tales, adventures and daft nursery rhymes. 10–10.30am
EVENT TIME
*12–12.30pm *2–2.30pm
4–4.30pm
Story Shack Age 3+ Be the hero of your own story! Embark on an adventure created entirely by YOU in this interactive story-making workshop with Becci Books. EVENT TIME
*10–10.30am
Tawny Tales
Dinosaur Explorers
Story Shack Whole family
Story Shack Whole family
Beneath the dark blanket of a starry sky, you will find the enchanting Gwdihw. Flock together and listen to their tawny tales.
Two explorers have misplaced some roarsome, rare dinosaur eggs. Help them retrace, recount and return the eggs before they start to hatch?
EVENT TIME
*11–11.30am 1–1.30pm *3–3.30pm
EVENT TIME
*11–11.30am *1–1.30pm *3–3.30pm
Story Shack Whole family 10–10.30am *12–12.30pm *2–2.30pm 4–4.30pm
Story Shack Whole family A sugary mystery has fallen into the laps of Detectives Pudding and Pie. Help this infamous detective duo crack this chocolate case. EVENT TIME
*11–11.30am
1–1.30pm *3–3.30pm
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Age 4+
Discover the magical world of Unicorn Academy™ and meet a real-life unicorn! Pose for a sparkling photo with this very special visitor before they head back to Unicorn Island. Spaces are limited but everyone can make a wish. 12–1pm
DROP IN
© & TM Spin Master Ltd. All rights reserved.
Once Upon a Sign Step into a magical world with Cotswold Signing where classic fairytales come to life through expressive sign language, visual storytelling and audience participation.
Romani Storytelling
Chocolate Detectives
Children's Area
Story Shack All ages
Sunday 11 October
EVENT TIME
Unicorn Academy™
An inclusive adventure for Deaf and hearing families. EVENT TIME
The Girl with the Lantern Story Shack Whole family Join children from local Kolo Ukrainian School for a heartwarming interactive fairy tale full of autumn magic, music and light. EVENT TIME
12–12.30pm 4–4.30pm
*2–2.30pm
A Great Family Day Out There's so much to do and see in the Festival Village – all for FREE!
All sessions marked with * are SSE/Makaton interpreted.
Sunday 18 October
Make a Superhero Story Story Shack Age 3+ See Sat 17 for full details. EVENT TIME
*10–10.30am
Gruffalo Fun
Swashbuckling Pirates Story Shack Age 3+ Argh me hearties! A great storm has cursed our ship and our pirates need a new swashbuckling crew. Do you have what it takes? EVENT TIME
*11–11.30am
1–1.30pm
Dunkertons Taproom
*3–3.30pm
Age 3+
Meet the Gruffalo and enjoy some fun Gruffalo-themed activities. EVENT TIME
10am–12pm
The Amazing Scene Machine The Den Whole Family
Time-lapse, animation, painting and playing with clay to make for a unique experience with animator Jim Parkin. We set the scene and then you make the big picture, a picture that comes to life. Whether you are a Plasticine Picasso or have never played with clay, everyone is able to produce something that can become part of the piece and gets its time on screen. DROP IN
Meet the new Waterstones Children's Laureate Waterstones Children's Bookshop Age 3+
Come along to hear from the new Children's Laureate, Patrice Lawrence and have your books signed. EVENT TIME
2–2.30pm
Once Upon a Sign Story Shack Whole family See Sat 17 for full details. EVENT TIME
11am–1.30pm
Visit the Children's Festival Bookshop to meet authors and get books signed. Refuel with lunch in one of our picnic areas on site.
Get creative in The Den with handson crafts, activities and imaginative play.
Picnic Tent
DROP IN
Go to a brilliant children's book event – our Box Office team are here to help you choose.
Enjoy a free storytelling session in the Story Shack.
Big Children's Book Swap Grown out of The Colour Monster? Read every book in the Lottie Brooks series? Donate your pre-loved books and pick up some new family reads at this friendly book swap with Little Planet Cheltenham and The Motherhood Society.
Pick up a quiz sheet from the Trail Tent and explore the Little People, BIG DREAMS® Trail around the site.
*2–2.30pm
10am–4pm
Whole Family
Sample Day Out
Doggy Doodles Story Shack Age 3+ Join multi-award-winning author and illustrator Alex Willmore for a tail-waggingly fun storytime session followed by an epic draw-along to create your own canine character. EVENT TIME
12–12.30pm 4–4.30pm
Take a quiet moment to recharge in The Hush. Head home with a head full of stories and inspiration (and maybe a few new books, too!)
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Thursday 15 October
The Scribbled Self: Writing for Wellbeing
Waterstones Young Adult Book Group
VOICEBOX
We celebrate the benefits of writing for our mental health with students from local secondary schools. Whether you're new to writing or looking for inspiration, drop into VOICEBOX to hear from young writers or pick up a copy of creative writing guide The Scribbled Self. EVENT TIME
3–5pm
Kindly supported by Cheltenham Centenary Community Fund and Kay and Anthony Groves
Waterstones Children's Bookshop
If you love reading YA, come along for a special edition of our Waterstones Cheltenham Young Adult book group. We'll chat about books we love, what we're reading and introduce the Waterstones October YA Book of the Month. Everyone is welcome, whether you're a regular, a first timer, or just want to see what we do. Recommended for ages 14+ but feel free to join at your own discretion. 5–6pm
EVENT TIME
Cabin 13–18 A place for teenagers to read, recharge, meet friends, play games and discover the best teen activities happening across the Festival. Find it on the map, p. 20
Friday 16 October
Young Adult Book Swap Picnic Tent Drop into our relaxed YA Book Swap. Bring a preloved book, swap it with another reader, and discover something new to enjoy. EVENT TIME
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With thanks to our supporters
Saturday 17 October
Write Now: Beyond the Margins VOICEBOX School exclusions and their social impact on mental health and wellbeing, criminal activity and inequality remain a challenge in the UK and in Gloucestershire specifically. Join poet John Bernard for a mix of performance and conversation from those who live, work and fight at the edges of the system. EVENT TIME
10–11am
Kindly supported by Amazon Literary Partnership
Sunday 18 October
Amnesty International: Words that Burn VOICEBOX Creativity has the power to amplify young voices of today. Breaking down barriers of difference, Amnesty International UK's human rights poetry project Words That Burn empowers young people to give voice to those who are suppressed and marginalised through creativity and language. Hear inspiring performances and experience the power of poetry in the fight against injustice and inequality. EVENT TIME
11am–1pm
Kay and Anthony Groves
10–11.30am
FREE VOICEBOX amplifies bold voices, sparks big conversations and inspires change. From new writing and pop culture to wellbeing and society, VOICEBOX explores the ideas shaping our world. Expect talks, debates, workshops, live music, comedy and more from big names and the next generation of creatives.
Voicebox Join us in the VOICEBOX tent for free events throughout the Festival.
Pick up the VOICEBOX zine in print, online and on the Cheltenham Festivals app.
Can’t wait until the Festival? Listen to The VOICEBOX Podcast for fresh perspectives from creatives, writers and changemakers. Available wherever you get your podcasts.
Follow us cheltenhamfestivals.org/VOICEBOX
@voicebox___
With thanks to our supporters
@cheltfestivals
Free Activities 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.
The Huddle Whether you’re after stimulating talks during the day or fancy great entertainment and music in the evening, visit The Huddle in our Feast Cafe for a host of free events celebrating writing from close to home and around the globe.
The Snug The Snug is the perfect book lover’s retreat. Join a community group, swap recommendations, immerse yourself in crafts and explore The Writing Desk installation.
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Did you know? By purchasing food and drink on site, you’re supporting Cheltenham Festivals as a charity
Plan Your Perfect Festival on the Cheltenham Festivals app
Benefact Group Lounge
Available on Android and iOS, it’s the easiest way to plan your Festival visit.
Stop by to nominate your favourite charity for a donation through Movement for Good. Plus, kids can win £1000 for their school. Keep your eye peeled for Toffee the Bear too!
Times Square A vibrant hub of literary and cultural activities. Sip wine during 'Wine Hour', explore The Archive as Times Radio plays in the background and test yourself with worldfamous puzzles from The Times and Sunday Times. In partnership with The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Radio
Listening Lounge by BBC Audiobooks Get lost in unforgettable stories with BBC Audiobooks. Pop into the Listening Lounge and let the adventures, mysteries and laughs transport you somewhere new.
With thanks to our supporters
Scan the QR code to download it now
Developed with thanks to Birmingham City University
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FREE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
My Global Reading Habit
Friday 9 October
Wine Hour
The Huddle
Times Square 18+ Join us for 'Wine Hour' in Times Square for engaging conversations and complimentary wine tastings on the first Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Festival. 5–6pm
EVENT TIME
Sunday 11 October
Our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan talks to Dutch writer Eva Meijer about their international reading habits and top global literature picks. EVENT TIME
1–1.45pm
Saturday 10 October
Kindly supported by the Dutch Foundation for Literature, part of New Dutch Writing, and presented in collaboration with Modern Culture.
Portrait Post
Feel the Feels
The Snug
The Snug
Get creative this World Mental Health Day and design a unique portrait reflecting you, your personality and your interests with Art For All Mental Health. Take it home or leave it to be displayed on their website. No artistic experience needed and all materials provided.
Slimy, squishy, gritty or gooey – what words spring to mind when you touch different textures? Join art therapist Josa Petrie for a playful sensory workshop exploring slime, sand and more. For children and adults alike –everyone is invited to get stuck in.
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
DROP IN
10am–12pm
DROP IN
3–5pm
Wine Hour Times Square 18+
Hear from the Festival Programmers about their top event picks for today.
See Fri 9 for full details.
11.30am–12pm
Join the conversation and share your Festival experiences with us Follow us and tag @cheltfestivals in your social posts
5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
The Music Works Presents... The Huddle Grab a drink and enjoy live music from TRINITY, a dynamic artist fusing jazz with R&B, pop and blues. EVENT TIME
Join Rebecca and Karl from The Sunday Letter Project and rediscover the joy of putting pen to paper. They’ll guide you through writing your own letter, sharing simple ways to turn letter writing into a meaningful ritual that helps you slow down, reflect and connect.
6–7pm
The Huddle See Fri 9 for full details. EVENT TIME
With thanks to our supporters
11.30am–12pm
The Nobel Prize for Literature The Huddle Days after literature's most prestigious honour is announced, Ann Morgan and Rosie Goldsmith discuss this year's recipient, explore how the selection process works and what it means for authors and nations. EVENT TIME
1–1.45pm
Book Covers Around The World The Huddle Any visit to a bookstore in another country will highlight the variety of covers across the globe. Aina Marti-Balcells from Héloïse Press teams up with our Literary Explore in Residence Ann Morgan to explore the ways in which international editions differ. EVENT TIME
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10am–12pm
Festival Highlights
The Huddle
EVENT TIME
The Snug
DROP IN
Festival Highlights
EVENT TIME
The Sunday Letter Project
3–3.45pm
Monday 12 October
No Child Left Behind Year of Action
The Snug
The Huddle
Join our relaxed dropin writing for wellbeing workshop: discover new writing activities and have a go at something yourself. Take a copy of The Scribbled Self away with you to continue your writing for wellbeing journey.
Join the team from No Child Left Behind as they launch their 'Education for All' year of action, busting myths around young people and sharing how we can all make a difference.
3–5pm
DROP IN
Kindly supported by Cheltenham Centenary Community Fund and Kay and Anthony Groves
Wine Hour Times Square 18+ See Fri 9 for full event details. EVENT TIME
5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Book Doctor The Snug Looking for some bookish inspiration? Sit down with our resident Waterstones Book Doctor for tailor-made recommendations. DROP IN
11am–1pm
Investigative Journalism Across Borders The Huddle Award-winning journalist Bojan Pancevski talks to our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan about investigative journalism and how it differs across borders and languages. EVENT TIME 11.30am–12.15pm
4–5pm
EVENT TIME
What Do You Think? On the Future of Species The Snug Drop in for a friendly chat with other Festival-goers and explore some of the themes covered in the event. DROP IN
7.45–8.30pm
Tuesday 13 October
Book Doctor The Snug See Mon 12 for full details. DROP IN
The Huddle
The Snug
DROP IN
7.45–8.30pm
Patrice Lawrence The Huddle Patrice Lawrence discusses her work and journey to becoming the Children’s Laureate with Sharna Jackson. DROP IN
With thanks to our supporters
11am–1pm
Rahul Jain
What Do You Think? The Correspondent Drop in for a friendly chat with other festival-goers and explore some of the themes explored in the The Correspondent.
FREE ACTIVITIES
The Scribbled Self: Writing for Wellbeing
Our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan talks to Rahul Jain, curator of the Dibrugarh University International Literature Festival and co-founder of the Foundation for Culture, Arts and Literature, about the power of storytelling to bridge political and social divides. EVENT TIME
12–12.45pm
2–2.45pm
Kay and Anthony Groves
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FREE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
m a h n e t Cherlites Back W
Find a post box at:
Cheltenham Town Ha
ll
Imperial Square, GL
50 1QA
Clockwise
Festival House,Jesso p Avenue, GL50 3SH
Postmarked: Letter Writing
Everyman Theatre
Regent Street, GL50
1HQ
88 The Promenade,
GL50 1NB
Hatchards
Hester's Way Comm unity Resource Centre
Cassin Drive, GL51 7SU
Hub8 MX
Off Chester Walk, GL
50 3JZ
Incom Gaming
Church Street, GL50
18 September – 18 October 2026 Post boxes are popping up across Cheltenham. Find a post box, write a letter and send it on its way. Write to your future self, capture something about the place you call home, or share a story that has stayed with you. Post boxes will offer different prompts to write – how many will you find? Post your letter and we’ll gather the words, thoughts and stories together at The Writing Desk in The Snug.
...around town in association with Cheltenham BID
In Association with
ers
123 High Street, GL50
1DQ
173 High Street, GL50
1DF
Marks and Spencer
McDonald’s
224-226 High Street,
GL50 3HF
Oxfam Bookshop
31 Cambray Place, GL
50 1JP
Rosa’s Thai
16 Promenade, GL50
1LR
School House Café
St Paul's Road, GL50
The Wilson
4EZ
Clarence Street, GL50
Tivoli Cheltenham
3JT
Regent Arcade, Reg ent Street, GL50 1EU
Travelbag
33-41 The Promenad e, GL50 1LE
Waterstones
33–41 The Promenad e, GL50 1LE
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John Lewis & Partn
Making a will and keeping it up to date helps ensure your wishes are respected and that those closest to you are looked after when you're no longer around. Join experts from Willans LLP solicitors for a discussion about why having a will matters, what can happen if arrangements aren’t made, and how to avoid common complications. EVENT TIME
2–2.30pm
Kindly supported by Willans LLP
The Huddle Hear from a selection of local authors as they share the stories behind their books, their writing journeys and the inspiration that brought their ideas to life. Stick around for the opportunity to meet the authors, ask questions and connect over a coffee. 3–4pm
What Do You Think? Rethinking Wilderness The Snug Drop in for a friendly chat with other Festival-goers and explore some of the themes covered in the event. DROP IN
With thanks to our supporters
The Snug See Mon 12 for full details. 11am–1pm
Sahara Saheli
7.45–8.30pm
Enjoy uninterrupted reading with the chilliest book club in town. All readers welcome – eBooks, audiobooks, comic books… just bring your own book! DROP IN
6.30–8.30pm
The Huddle Join local women's group Sahara Saheli as they celebrate and share their stories, cultures and the meaning of home. EVENT TIME
11am–12.30pm
Community Cookbook Launch The Huddle
Local Voices Showcase
EVENT TIME
The Snug
Book Doctor DROP IN
Silent Book Club
Join families from the St Pauls area as they launch their community cookbook, showcasing the foods that tell the stories of the community and celebrating the power of community engagement. Stick around after for a chat with the group. 4–5pm
EVENT TIME
Richard Coles: Spill the Spirituality The Hush
Dear Reader, Step inside The Snug and discover a growing collection of letters from writers near and far. Read about connection, community, memories and the stories we share. Take a moment to read a letter, then write one of your own. Write to someone you love, a friend, a stranger, or simply to yourself.
Yours, y The Sunda t jec Letter Pro
Image: Wildflower Illustration co
The Huddle
Wednesday 14 October
FREE ACTIVITIES
Inheritance Wars: How to Avoid a Family Feud
Writer and Reverend Richard Coles talks to Penny Fuller about his work, the spirituality that runs through everything and his perspectives on wellbeing, faith and being human. EVENT TIME
6.30–7.30pm
Kindly supported by the Methodist Church
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FREE ACTIVITIES
Coffee with…
Thursday 15 October
Friday 16 October
Book Doctor
Puzzling with The Times
Benefact Group Lounge
The Snug
Hear Nick Purchase in conversation with writers, curators and others doing fascinating work to bring our culture and history to life. Listen to them discussing their work and ask them your questions over a complimentary cup of coffee.
See Mon 12 for full details.
Monday 12, 1–1.45pm
Literary Explorer Ann Morgan Tuesday 13, 1–1.45pm
Author and Activist Natasha Carthew Wednesday 14, 1–1.45pm
Art Historian John-Paul Stonard Thursday 15, 1–1.45pm
Philosopher Julian Baggini Friday 16, 1–1.45pm
Textile Curator Bev Johnson
DROP IN
11am–1pm
From Saving to Investing: Why Time Matters More Than Timing The Huddle Many people worry about losing money, making investing feel daunting. But history shows that getting started matters more than perfect timing. Explore what decades of market ups and downs can teach us about building long-term wealth. EVENT TIME
2–3pm
Kindly supported by Vanguard
Where Do Writers Get Their Ideas From? The Huddle Join lecturers from the University of Gloucestershire's Creative Writing course for a workshop designed to stimulate ideas and get you started on a writing journey. EVENT TIME
3.30–4.30pm
Every ticket purchased helps us keep events like these free to see. Explore the ticketed programme, enjoy the Festival and make a difference.
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With thanks to our supporters
The Huddle Test your logic and sharpen your skills as you join The Times' puzzles editors for a session packed with classic challenges along with new favourites. DROP IN
10am–12pm
In partnership with The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Radio
Lessons From 50 Years of Saving and Investing Times Square With markets, politics and the economy rarely far from the headlines, investing can feel daunting. Vanguard experts and guest speakers explore what 50 years of history can teach us about saving and investing, from the challenges of market timing to the lessons of the world’s ‘unluckiest investor’. EVENT TIME
11am–12pm
Kindly supported by Vanguard
From Saving to Investing: Why Time Matters More Than Timing The Huddle See Thurs 15 for full details. EVENT TIME
2–3pm
Kindly supported by Vanguard
The Huddle
The Huddle
Hear book recommendations from our Community Voices Network and be inspired by stories loved across our local community.
Discover October's NonFiction Book of the Month with Ben Machell. Chasing the Dark is a haunting exploration of our fascination with ghosts, psychic phenomena and the supernatural, asking what happens when science can no longer explain our experiences.
EVENT TIME
3.30–4.15pm
The Times Quiz The Huddle Grab a drink, gather your team and put your knowledge to the test with The Times Quiz. EVENT TIME
7–8.30pm
In partnership with The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Radio
Looking for the perfect book lover's retreat? Drop into The Snug to swap recommendations, join a community group or immerse yourself in crafts.
Saturday 17 October
Quill Crafting The Snug Let your creativity take flight and turn old pages into something special. Make and take away your own unique quill pen made from old books. DROP IN
10am–12pm
1–1.45pm
EVENT TIME
In partnership with The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Radio
Found Poetry
The Huddle See Sat 10 for full details. EVENT TIME
With thanks to our supporters
11.30am–12pm
The Sunday Letter Project The Snug See Sun 11 for full details DROP IN
10am–12pm
Festival Highlights The Huddle See Sat 10 for full details. EVENT TIME
11.30am–12pm
Community Poetry Showcase The Huddle
The Snug Join our drop-in workshop and create found poetry. From collage poems to blackout poetry, transform existing texts into your own unique creations.
Join us for an open-mic Community Poetry Showcase celebrating original poetry and the unique voices of our creative and local community. EVENT TIME
1–2pm
3–5pm
DROP IN
David Larbi: Spill the Spirituality The Hush Poet, creator and musician David Larbi talks to Trey Hall about his work, the spirituality that runs through everything and perspectives on wellbeing, faith and being human. EVENT TIME
5.30–6.30pm
Kindly supported by The Methodist Church
The Music Works Presents... The Huddle
Festival Highlights
Sunday 18 October
FREE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
Community Voices Waterstones Book of the Month Recommends
Grab a drink and enjoy live music from Merce Jade, an eclectic artist fusing R&B, rap and soul. EVENT TIME
Cheltenham Craft Coven The Snug Get hands on and create bookish crafts with Paula and Ella from the Cheltenham Craft Coven. All materials provided. Prefer to work on your own project? Bring it along and chat with fellow craft enthusiasts. DROP IN
1.30–3.30pm
6–7pm
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Saturday 3 October – Watch UrbanArt at work as the artworks take shape.
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A love letter to Cheltenham unfolds across the town. Discover five large-scale handdrawn artworks celebrating the people, places and stories that make our town unique.
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FREE ACTIVITIES SATURDAY 3 – SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER
Cheltenham Writes Back Fragments: Poetry Trail
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Connecting Communities
Listening, partnering, sharing.
Don’t miss our top Community Picks in The Huddle at this year’s Festival: Wednesday 14 October
Sahara Saheli The Huddle Find out more on p. 13 DROP IN
11am–12.30pm
Community Cookbook Launch The Huddle Find out more on p. 13 DROP IN
4–5pm
Friday 16 October
Community Poetry Showcase The Huddle Our vision is to create a world where everyone can explore and create culture. We are committed to deepening our relationships with local communities, especially with people who face barriers that limit their access to cultural opportunities.
Find out more on p. 15 DROP IN
1–2pm
Sunday 18 October
Community Voices
To achieve this, we work with a network of Recommends Community Voices and Community Partners The Huddle – individuals and organisations rooted in and Find out more on p. 15 trusted by their own DROP IN 3.30–4.15pm networks – to strengthen connections, amplify underrepresented voices and work together to address inequalities in in achieving our vision of access to culture. creating a world where Come and chat to the everyone can explore and Cheltenham Festivals team create culture. Find out more in the pink tent during about how to get involved by Cheltenham Literature scanning the QR. Festival to find out more about our work with local communities.
Support us
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More than a ticket… Every ticket purchased enables us to provide life-changing cultural experiences and education to people of all ages year-round. Enjoy the Festival and help us make a difference. This year's programme features...
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Image: Murdo Macleod
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FREE ACTIVITIES ADULTS
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All in one place Scan the QR code to view the full programme 19
Prince of Wales Stadium
Leisure at Cheltenham
Pittville Play Area
Tom m
y Ta
ylor s La
ne
Festival Village University of Gloucestershire Hardwick Campus
Town Hall The Cunard Stage, Pillar Room and Waterstones Bookshop
Pla c
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The Hush
The Den Alb
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Ave Dunkertons Taproom GL52 6UT, 3 miles
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Win chc
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All S
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St. J a
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St ce
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eS t Queens Hotel GL50 1NN, 0.2 miles
The Hive
Pit
5
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St
St
Hotel du KVin na pp Rd GL50 3AH, 0.5 miles
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Waterstones Children’s Bookshop
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No rth St tta Low
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Story Shack
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Trail Tent
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Listening Lounge by BBC Audiobooks
ll 5 mins
Suff
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Par
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Festival Village
Festival Entrance
Ha Town ins 0m
1 Vin Du tel Ho
5
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Box Office
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3
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2
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Benefact Group Lounge St
ola
Th
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s Rd
gh Hi
4
Par ab
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Re
de
St G e
e1 ntr Ce rts la A abo Par
Ro
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6
ga
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St
ar
No
New
St M
nrie
Nook on Five GL50 1PZ, 0.3 miles
H
W ay
3
He
Rd
ro se St
ry
ham
Parabola Arts Centre GL50 3AA, 0.5 miles
bu
Am b
ke s
Eve s
2
Te w
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Cheltenham St P auls Rd Town Hall The Cunard Stage, Pillar Room and Waterstones Sw Bookshop GL50 1QA, ind on Rd 0.5 miles
Rd
Off-site Venues 1
Evesh am R d
PITTVILLE PARK
l3
mi
ns
Rd
Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham, GL50 1UL Site open from Friday 9 October, 10am
Free entry
rS
lie pel
pa
ad Ro
nt
Mo
VIP Lounge in partnership with Cunard
The Times and Sunday Times Forum
Waterstones Bookshop
Feast Cafe Cabin 13-18 The Snug The Huddle Times Square
Garden Theatre
Quiet Space
Too Far Media
Bar
The Gardens Gallery
Tennis Courts
e
on tp el
lie r
Te rra c
VOICEBOX
M
21
Free Events
& Activities 9––18 October 2026
cheltenhamfestivals.org #CheltLitFest