The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival Free Programme 2025
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 in 2025
Thank you for your support
We’re delighted to share 10 days of conversations, performances and workshops you can enjoy without spending a thing. This year is extra special as we at Cheltenham Festivals, the arts charity behind the Festival, celebrate our 80th anniversary.
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 this 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
Celebrating 160 years of Alice in Wo
Return to Wonderland
Don't be late for a very important date!
Accept a mysterious invitation and step into the pages of Wonderland for an immersive family adventure. The Hatter has lost their hat. Solve the peculiar clues, track down the missing hat, and save the day. But remember... absolutely no unauthorised shrinking!
Story Shack
The Den
Return to Wonderland
Free
Family Activities for a Fun Day Out from 9.30am – 5pm at weekends
onderland
Curious Creatures
Look out for our giant blackboard and add your curious creature to the imaginative menagerie.
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop
Waterstones Children’s Bookshop
Come along to the Waterstones Children’s Bookshop to browse the shelves, get recommendations from our expert booksellers, meet authors after their events and have your books signed. With
Book Characters
Look out for your favourite book characters parading around the Festival Village including the White Rabbit.
Picnic Tent
Spark your family's creativity and dive into a world of fun at The Den. This free drop-in activity tent is your destination for making, doing and playing.
The Escape Trail
Are you ready to play the ultimate game? Unlock the levels, find the scattered keys and save the world before it’s too late... Christopher Edge's The Escape awaits. Can you complete the trail in time?
Tales from Acorn Wood
Celebrate 25 years of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Acorn Wood. Spot your favourite characters, lift the flaps and find hidden objects.
With thanks to
On top of our fabulous free storytelling and activities, enjoy picnic areas, a play area, buggy parks, water taps, a children’s bookshop and lots of book characters to meet.
Sensory Nook
A sensory space to explore natural objects and snuggle up with books.
Phoenix Comic Books Corner
Learn how to draw lots of the characters from across The Phoenix Comic, including characters from Jamie Smart’s Bunny Vs Monkey and Neill Cameron’s Donut Squad You can even create your own comic creations and display them on our big comic wall.
Puppet Play
Create and play! Make your own Alice in Wonderland puppets, then bring them to life in this magical craft zone.
Design a Mad Hatter's Hat
Head to The Den and use your imagination to design a new hat for the Mad Hatter to be in with a chance to win a signed copy of Alice with a Why by Anna James.
Imagination Station
Costumes, mirrors, and props. Perfect for playful roleplay and creative fun.
Roll up, roll up to the Story Shack for spellbinding storytelling sessions! Get cosy and let your imagination run wild as our storytellers transport you to magical worlds.
Saturday 11 October
Fairytale Mix Up
Age 3+
Join in the fairytale fun with Becci Books as she presents much loved tales, for little ones, with a twist.
EVENT TIME 10.30–11am
Mock Turtle Tales
Age 3+
Join Louby Lou’s Storytelling for shows inspired by Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
Meet the Mock Turtles and the Potion Professors.
EVENT TIME 11.30am–12pm 1.30–2pm 3.30–4pm
Spellbinding Stories
Age 7+
Magical myths of giants, dragons and heroes with Amy Jeffs
EVENT TIME 12.30–1pm 2.30–3pm
Ghastly Stories for Gruesome Gremlins
Age 7+
Boggarts, ghost and things that go burp in the night with Gav Cross
EVENT TIME 4.30–5pm
Sunday 12 October
Ghastly Stories for Gruesome Gremlins
Age 7+
EVENT TIME 10.30–11am 12.30–1pm 2.30–3pm 4.30–5pm
Potion Professors
Age 3+
Join Louby Lou’s Storytelling for shows inspired by Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
Meet the Mock Turtles and the Potion Professors.
EVENT TIME 11.30am–12pm 1.30–2pm 3.30–4pm
Saturday 18 October
Super Great Kids
Stories
Age 5+
Join storyteller Kim Normanton for folk and fairy tales from around the world.
EVENT TIME 10.30–11am 12.30–1pm 2.30–3pm 4.30–5pm
Potion Professors
Age 3+
EVENT TIME 11.30am–12pm 1.30–2pm 3.30–4pm
Sunday 19 October
Super Great Kids
Stories Age 5+
EVENT TIME 10.30–11am 12.30–1pm 2.30–3pm 4.30–5pm
Mock Turtle Tales
Age 3+
EVENT TIME 11.30am–12pm 1.30–2pm 3.30–4pm
for fa m ilies More free a c tivities
Saturday 11 October Sunday 12 October Sunday 19 October
The Huddle All ages Inspired by Anna James’ reimagining of Alice in Wonderland, young storytellers perform their own retold tales.
EVENT TIME 2–3pm
Meet Mog the Forgetful Cat
Dunkertons Taproom Age 3+
Meet Mog, the lovable and curious cat from the children's book series by Judith Kerr. Join in the furbulous activities!
DROP IN 10am–12pm
Saturday 18 October
Mog Storytelling
Waterstones Children's Bookshop Age 3+
EVENT TIME 11.45am–12.05pm
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
As well as exploring a whole host of free events and activities for families, you can now enjoy our exciting ticketed events for less with 10% off *
* Valid on family events taking place on the same day. Excludes workshops, book and ticket and YA events.
With thanks to
Big Children's Book Swap
Picnic Tent
Grown out of The Gruffalo? Read every book in the Bunny vs Monkey series? Donate your pre-loved children's books and pick up some new family reads at this friendly book swap with Little Planet Cheltenham and The Motherhood Society
DROP IN 11am–1pm
Mog Storytelling
Waterstones Children's Bookshop Age 3+
EVENT TIME 11.45am–12.05pm
Say Hello to Our Newest Friend!
Calling all children aged 12 and under – Benefact Group's bear is missing a name... can you be the one to name it? The child who enters the winning name will win £1,000 for their school. T&Cs apply.
Enter here
Kindly supported by Benefact Group
VOICEBOX amplifies young voices, turns up the volume on big issues and creates change.
From new writing and pop culture to politics, wellbeing and society, VOICEBOX delves into the issues that matter.
Join us for free events throughout the Literature Festival.
Expect short talks, debates, workshops, live music, comedy and spoken word. Witness unmissable experiences and one-off moments, all in one dynamic space.
Past guests include Tom Daley, Francis Bourgeois, Daze Aghaji, Ellie Middleton, #Merky Books and Alex George.
We’re creating bold, original content alongside young people in our community and beyond.
Join the conversation. Make change happen.
Pick up the VOICEBOX zine in print, online and on the Cheltenham Festivals app.
DEBATE
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 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
The Hush
Drop into The Hush for activities to refresh the body and mind, with breathwork, mindfulness and crafts. Event listings on page 10. Kindly supported by The Methodist Church
With thanks to our supporters
Did
you know?
By purchasing food and drink on site, you’re supporting Cheltenham Festivals as a charity
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 or join a lively post-event debate. Look out for the full line up in the free programme leaflet.
Listening Hut by BBC Audiobooks
Immerse yourself in captivating stories with BBC Audiobooks, a unique listening experience for all ages to enjoy.
Benefact Group Lounge
Join us for a moment of inspiration, where you can read incredible stories and see the impact of thousands of charities supported through our giving.
Help us to keep at least 25% of our activities free
There are so many ways to help us ensure everyone can explore and create culture. From purchasing food and drink on site to becoming a Member, Patron, Partner or Donor.
Scan the QR code to find out more
Cunard presents Sea of Glamour: Celebrating 185 years of Ocean Travel
Step into 185 years of magic, history and unforgettable moments with Cunard’s Sea of Glamour exhibition, curated by renowned photographer Mary McCartney. A selection of images from Sea of Glamour will be on display outside The Cunard Stage for Cheltenham Literature Festival visitors to take in a visual journey through Cunard’s rich 185-year legacy.
The Hush
From calligraphy and sketching to guided meditation and journaling, drop into The Hush for a range of crafts and activities suitable for all ages.
Friday 10
Creative Poetry, 2–4pm
Saturday 11
Explore Storytelling, 10.30am–12.30pm
Contemplative Calligraphy, 2–4pm
Sunday 12
Stories You Can Feel, 10.30am–12.30pm
Creative Calm: Open Craft, Space, 2–4pm
Monday 13
Sound Bath: Moment of Peace, 2–4pm
Tuesday 14
Contemplative Calligraphy, 2–4pm
Wednesday 15
Journeying Without Moving, 2–4pm
Thursday 16
The Lost Art of Conversation, 2–4pm
Friday 17
Stillness and Sacred Imagination, 2–4pm
Saturday 18
Sketch Notes: Drawing Your Journey, 10.30am–12.30pm Journalling for Children, 2–4pm
Sunday 19
Creative Calm: Open Craft Space, 10.30am–12.30pm Lectio Divna: Listening for the Sacred Word, 2–4pm
Kindly supported by The Methodist Church
Friday 10 October
Wine Hour
Times Square 18+
Join us for 'Wine Hour' in Times Square for engaging conversations and complimentary wine tastings each Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Festival.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Saturday 11 October
The Cartographer's Guild
The Snug
Join the guild and create your own fantasy map. Breathe life into your world with islands, lakes and bays using the rolls of dice to inspire your creation. DROP IN 10am–12pm
Superlative Journal
The Snug
Whether you're an aspiring short story writer or simply love to put pen to paper, spark your creativity with inspiring prompts from Superlative Literary Journal
DROP IN 1–3pm
For more information about events in The Hush, head to our website
World Music Showcase
The Huddle
Tune in to an eclectic mix of sounds at our Music Showcase – an uplifting celebration of music from near and far featuring live performances, stories and cultural connections.
EVENT TIME 3.30–4.30pm
Wine Hour
Times Square 18+
Join us for 'Wine Hour' in Times Square for engaging conversations and complimentary wine tastings each Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Festival.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
The Music Works Presents...
The Huddle
Grab a drink and enjoy live music from Jodie O, an exciting artist combining indie folk with an alt-rock edge.
EVENT TIME 7–7.45pm
Drop in for one session or crawl your way through the whole evening of events.
Saturday 11 October
Amuse Bouche Hatchards
Eat your way around France with Carolyn Boyd as she shares the stories behind the country's most fascinating foods and ingredients. Enjoy tasty french treats, whether you're a proud Francophile or don't know your ficelle from your flûte.
EVENT TIME 6–7pm
Fairytale Ceilidh
The Bottle of Sauce
Interweaving the wild imagination of Grimm's Fairy Tales with magical ceilidh dances, dance your way through the story as the fairytale ceilidh returns. Become the characters, happenings and magic of the tale.
EVENT TIME 6–7.30pm
And Then There Were Nuns
Boston Tea Party
There's been a murder! The culprit was spotted dashing through the Festival crowd, chased around the corner of St Gregory's Church – and then there were nuns! Track the fleeing figure, interrogate shifty sisters and follow outrageous clues. It will take a brilliant sleuth to unmask the killer. Is it you?
DROP IN 6–7.30pm
Miniature Book Making Waterstones
Celebrate the works of William Morris with a miniature book making workshop hosted by the team at Morris' Cotswold home, Kelmscott Manor. Explore the Manor's current exhibition and Morris' links to the world of literature. Plus, create and take home a memento inspired by the beautiful books Morris made.
DROP IN 6–8pm
Plan your crawl with the Cheltenham Festivals app
Poetic Activism
The Wilson Join Sonita Alizada, Charly Cox , and Rowan McCabe as they unleash their poetic voices – raw, bold and deeply human. Women's rights, social inequality and mental health awareness are more than buzzwords for these three poets. Experience an evening of powerful poetry that dares to speak, heal and connect. One night. Three unforgettable voices
EVENT TIME 6–7pm
Material Worlds
The Wilson Drop into the new exhibition exploring how contemporary artists are using textiles in surprising and radical ways or get your creative juices flowing with local artist-led printing or a playful people's assembly workshop.
DROP IN 6–8pm People's Assembly 6–7pm
Imaginary Landscapes
The Wilson Enjoy spellbinding poetry performed by Chris Tutton accompanied by harpist Tara Minton for a mesmerising fusion of music and words to pluck at your heart strings.
EVENT TIME 7–8pm
Dungeons and Dragons
Incom Gaming
Looking for an adventure?
Whether you're a tabletop trainee or a DnD wizard, dive into an epic campaign with a ready-made character and a talented team of Dungeon Masters. If DnD isn’t for you, have a go at a range of Incom’s board games.
EVENT TIME 7.30–9.30pm
Penny Dreadfuls
The Bayshill Inn
Celebrate five years of Moth Sanctuary Productions' Penny Dreadfuls with an evening of eerie music accompanying macabre readings, from ghostly tales to grim goings-on.
EVENT TIME 8–9.30pm
The Wonderful Wonderland Quiz
John Gordons
Fall back down the rabbit hole with author and journalist Anna James for a quiz on all things Alice in Wonderland
With prizes and plenty of madness, the evening will feature questions about the books, films, characters and other Wonderland nonsense. Max six people to a team.
EVENT TIME 8–9.30pm
First Five Live
Parler
Remember the book that changed your life? The inspirational figure that opened your eyes? The song you’ll never forget? Pick two books, two tracks and one person that define you – you’ve got your first five. Writer Yomi ode delves into Sonita Alizada's First Five with musical curation by DJ Conrad Kira
EVENT TIME 8–9pm
LIT CRAWL TAKEOVER: JUICY READINGS VOICEBOX
Local performer Juice NazNaz is bringing a reading like no other. In this immersive performance, Juice will transform into a living, breathing open book. Bring a quote from your favourite read and add it to their growing ‘journal of life’. Then, get hands-on and turn your own story into a zine to take home.
All materials provided.
EVENT TIME 9–9.45pm
Hoedown
Throwdown
Queens, Regency Suite
Saddle up and end your night on a high! No experience? No problem. Learn simple line dancing steps before it's your turn to hit the floor and show off your new moves. Yeehaw!
EVENT TIME 9.30–11pm
Sunday 12 October
Found Poetry Workshop
The Snug
Join our relaxed drop-in workshop and create found poems using words from the streets of Cheltenham: street signs, shop fronts, bus stops and everyday inspiration. Take them home or leave with us to display.
DROP IN 10am–12pm
Re-reading Childhood Books
The Huddle
An engaging panel reflects on beloved childhood books, sharing their reading memories and exploring how re-reading them as adults transforms meaning, emotion and perspective.
EVENT TIME 12–1pm
The Nobel Prize for Literature
The Huddle
Just days after literature’s most prestigious honour is announced, Ann Morgan and Rosie Goldsmith discuss this year’s recipient and explore how the selection process works and what it means for authors and nations.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2.15pm
Coffee with…
Benefact Group Lounge
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.
Monday 13, 12–1pm Coffee with...
Hilary Floe
Tuesday 14, 1–2pm Coffee with...
Tessa Dunlop
Wednesday 15, 1–2pm Coffee with...
Daniel Hahn
Thursday 16, 4–5pm Coffee with...
Nicola Tuxworth
Friday 17, 2–3pm Coffee with...
Andrew Ziminski
Community Showcase: Cheltenham Festivals
The Snug
Connect with the Cheltenham Festivals team and discover how our learning, participation and outreach projects are creating real, positive impact.
DROP IN 3–5pm
Wine Hour
Times Square 18+
Join us for 'Wine Hour' in Times Square for engaging conversations and complimentary wine tastings each Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Festival.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Monday 13 October
Book Doctor
The Snug
Are you looking for some bookish inspiration? Meet with our resident Waterstones Book Doctor for tailor-made recommendations.
DROP IN 11am–1pm
Local Voices
The Huddle
Hear from and support local children’s authors showcasing their literary talent. Lois Kingscott is the author of a series of picture books based on her horse, Dave, who is currently on loan at Cotswold Riding for the Disabled Association. Jennifer Davy is the creator of Chloe’s Tales, a series of adventures about a plucky labradoodle.
EVENT TIME 12–1pm
What Do You Think?
Starmer's Labour
The Snug Drop in for a friendly chat to explore some of the themes covered in the event with our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan
EVENT TIME 2–2.45pm
My Global Reading Habit
The Huddle
Every ticket purchased helps us keep events like these free to see. Explore the ticketed programme, enjoy the Festival and make a difference
Our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan talks to author Georgi Gospodinov about his international reading habits and top global literature picks.
EVENT TIME 4–4.30pm
Tuesday 14 October
Book Doctor
The Snug
Are you looking for some bookish inspiration? Meet with our resident Waterstones Book Doctor for tailor-made recommendations.
DROP IN 11am–1pm
Local Voices
The Huddle
Hear from and support local authors showcasing their literary talent. Ruth End and Christine Whittemore present their dazzling art and poetry about 13 local trees. Emma Bovill, editor and co-author of The Red Dress, explores the award-winning global collaborative embroidery project conceived by artist Kirstie Macleod.
EVENT TIME 12–1pm
Planning For Your Digital Legacy
The Huddle
Nowadays, it’s likely you have some sort of digital presence. Perhaps it’s in the form of social media, photo storage, cryptocurrency or online subscriptions – but what happens to it all once you’re gone? From the practical to the sentimental, experts from Willans LLP solicitors and Estatesearch discuss how to ensure your digital assets are taken care of.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2pm
Kindly supported by Willans LLP
What Do You Think? With the Law on Our Side
The Snug
Drop in for a friendly chat to explore some of the themes covered in the event with our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan
EVENT TIME 3–3.45pm
The English Boys
The Huddle
Join Dean Close students Louis and Samuel in conversation as they share their love of English literature and insights into their podcast The English Boys where they discuss books, authors and all things literature.
EVENT TIME 4.30–5pm
Wednesday 15 October
Book Doctor
The Snug
Are you looking for some bookish inspiration? Meet with our resident Waterstones Book Doctor for tailor-made recommendations.
DROP IN 11am–1pm
Local Voices
The Huddle
Hear from and support local authors showcasing their literary talent. Simon Fisher recounts his journey hitchhiking North America in the summer of 1970 with just a backpack, a few dollars and plenty of optimism. Jessica Holmes presents her ultimate guide to the life-expanding, adventure-enabling phenomenon of housesitting.
EVENT TIME 12–1pm
Book Covers Around the World
The Huddle
Any visit to a bookstore in another country will highlight the variety of covers across the globe. Daniel Li from Sinoist Books teams up with our Literary Explorer in Residence Ann Morgan to explore the ways in which international editions differ.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2.15pm
Looking for the perfect book lover's retreat?
Drop into The Snug, located in a cosy corner of the Feast Cafe, to swap recommendations, join a commmunity group or immerse yourself in crafts.
Hannah Moore Storytelling
The Huddle
Join storyteller Hannah Moore for tales of wondrous journeys from European folk tradition, followed by an interactive session, creating your own exploration of the wild woods.
EVENT TIME 3–4.15pm
With
Thursday 16 October
Book Doctor
The Snug
Are you looking for some bookish inspiration? Meet with our resident Waterstones Book Doctor for tailor-made recommendations
DROP IN 11am–1pm
The Scribbled Self: Writing for Wellbeing
The Snug
Join our relaxed dropin writing for wellbeing workshop; discover new writing activities and have a go at some yourself. Take a copy of The Scribbled Self away with you to continue your writing for wellbeing journey.
DROP IN 1–3pm
We Recommend...
Rachel Gale
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 1.15–1.45pm
No Child Left Behind: Year of Youth Action
The Huddle
No Child Left Behind share insights from the Year of Youth Action, with young people speaking on issues that matter to them.
Join us to learn more about this important community collaboration.
EVENT TIME 4–5pm
Spill the Spirituality –Live with Rowan Williams
The Hush
Spill the Spirituality is the podcast that's not afraid to dive deep into the stories and issues that matter most. Hear from host Trey Hall who is joined by Bishop, theologian and former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams for a special live event.
EVENT TIME 6.30–7.30pm
Kindly supported by The Methodist Church
While on site, every coffee you sip, book you buy, donation you make or ticketed event you attend helps us keep the magic free for everyone. Drop into our Community Showcases to find out more about what we do.
Friday 17 October
Spill the Spirituality – Live with Abi Millar
The Hush
Spill the Spirituality is the podcast that's not afraid to dive deep into the stories and issues that matter most.
Hear from host Trey Hall who is joined by journalist and author Abi Millar for a special live event.
EVENT TIME 3.30–4.30pm
Kindly supported by The Methodist Church
Wine Hour
Times Square 18+
Join us for 'Wine Hour' in Times Square for engaging conversations and complimentary wine tastings each Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Festival.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Saturday 18 October
Badge Cafe
The Snug
Fancy a crafty utopian hangout? The Badge Cafe returns, offering space to relax, create and connect by making unique badges from old books and magazines.
DROP IN 10am–12pm
With thanks to our supporters
We Recommend...
Children's Books
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 12–12.30pm
Cultural Threads
The Huddle
Daniel Hahn talks to author Emily Itami and Guest Curator Oyinkan Braithwaite as they delve into the rituals, traditions and customs that shape their fiction.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2.15pm
Travel Doctor
The Snug
Ever wanted to experience an Agatha Christie-style murder mystery retreat or see the magic of Prince Edward Island like Anne Shirley?
Sit down with travel expert Niamh Martin from Our World Is a Book for personal recommendations for your next literary-themed getaway.
DROP IN 3–5pm
Anna February
The Huddle
YA author Anna February discusses her thrilling dystopian murder mystery
The Hive, described as The Hunger Games meets A Good Girl's Guide to Murder
Chaired by Andy Darcy Theo
EVENT TIME 3–3.45pm
Wine Hour
Times Square 18+
Join us for 'Wine Hour' in Times Square for engaging conversations and complimentary wine tastings each Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Festival.
EVENT TIME 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, R&B and pop with a touch of indie flair.
EVENT TIME 7–7.45pm
Sunday 19 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 from used books.
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 12–12.30pm
Community Poetry Showcase
The Huddle
Join us for an open micstyle Community Poetry Showcase with original poems and unique voices from across our creative, local community.
EVENT TIME 1.30–2.30pm
Community Showcase: Cheltenham Festivals
The Snug
Connect with the Cheltenham Festivals team and discover how our learning, participation and outreach projects are creating real, positive impact.
DROP IN 3–5pm
Wine Hour
Times Square 18+
Join us for 'Wine Hour' in Times Square for engaging conversations and complimentary wine tastings each Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Festival.
EVENT TIME 5–6pm
In partnership with The Sunday Times Wine Club
Join the conversation and share your Festival experiences with us
Follow us and tag @cheltfestivals in your social posts
With thanks to our supporters
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...
Jordan Stephens
Miriam Margolyes
Joanna Lumley
Larry Lamb
Katie Piper
Charlie Mackesy
Michael Palin
Oti Mabuse
Graham Norton
Richard Osman
Festival Village
MONTPELLIER WALK
Playground
The Hive
Covered Picnic Area
Too Far Media
Benefact Group Lounge
Times Square
The Hush
Story Shack Return to Wonderland
The Den
Waterstones Children's Bookshop
Cheltenham Town Hall, Queens Hotel Nook on Five, Lit Crawl ...around town
