Dorchester Literary Festival

Readers are invited to the 13th Dorchester Literary Festival, taking place from 17–24 October 2026.

The festival has unveiled an exciting and diverse programme, bringing together some of the UK’s most celebrated writers, broadcasters, historians, politicians and performers for a week of inspiring conversations, talks and events.

Covering subjects including history, memoir, politics, fiction, nature, health, fashion, adventure, poetry and wild swimming, the 2026 Festival promises something for every interest and age group, further cementing its reputation as one of the South West’s leading literary events.

Headline guests announced so far include Alison Steadman, Jung Chang, Julian Fellowes, Victoria Hislop, Andrew Lownie, Jeremy Hunt, Sir Anthony Seldon, Vassos Alexander, Simon Jenkins, Alexandra Shulman and Kathy Lette.

Further details, including the full programme and ticket information is available from festival website at www.dorchesterliteraryfestival.com.  Tickets on sale now!