Longlisted for a prize
Andrea Wulf is on the longlist for The Baillie Gifford Prize 2026 announced on 3 September for her book The…
Bowie By A Superfan
Before David Bowie fans rush to see the tribute concert Bowie By Candlelight at Wells Cathedral in November, here’s a…
Playing With Numbers
Two authors who are interested in numbers – one in googology, one in global economics – both are appearing at…
Voice From The Grave
Former war correspondent and best-selling author Damien Lewis brings to life WWII Special Forces hero Archie Gibson in his new…
Climate Upheaval
After a summer of wildfires, drought and natural disasters across the world – and the first hosepipe ban in Somerset…
Destiny In The Stars
Budding astronomers inspired by the recent solar eclipse can reach for the skies once more duringthe Festival. Dame Maggie Aderin,…
Young Poets’ Record High
A record number of 170 entries has been received in the Young Poets’ category of this year’s Festival competitions, beating…
A Homage To Rice
Rice will be at the heart of the chef slot this year with the appearance of Malaysian-born chef Ping Coombes…
Author’s life of crime
Former film and TV producer Jayne Chard gave a fascinating account at a special event for Festival Friends of how…
Trio in Top 40 reads
Three of the Festival’s speakers have appeared in a list of the top 40 summer books featured in the Sunday…