Today, we’re delighted to announce the programme for Bridport Literary Festival 2026, our largest and most varied yet with more than 70 events. We can’t wait to welcome readers from far and wide this November. 

Explore the programme here.

This year more than ever, there’s something for everyone. Here are our highlights:

Our non-fiction line-up includes foodie legends Mary Berry and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall; politicians Ed Davey and Jeremy Hunt; historians Katja Hoyer and Jonathan Freedland; former RSC chief Greg Doran; gardener Sarah Raven; investigative reporter Oliver Bullough; environmentalist and Clarkson’s Farm star Hannah Bourne-Taylor; plus journalists and broadcasters Paul Mason, Tony Parsons and Zakia Sewell. Meanwhile, Debbie McGee will be sprinkling a little midweek magic.

In a strong current affairs line-up, Natasha Walter talks global feminism, the Guardian‘s Charlotte Higgins brings the struggles of Ukraine’s artists to life, and Gavin Esler and Robert Barrington discuss Britain’s dwindling integrity.

Fiction and literary lives aren’t left out, with Waterstones Debut Novelist of the Year Rebecca Perry, fan favourites Patrick Gale and Amanda Craig, and the award-winning Francis Spufford. BBC Radio 4’s Matthew Sweet reveals the amazing life of Barbara Cartland,  Sara Wheeler goes in the footsteps of Jan Morris, while Cathy Rentzenbrink considers the healing power of Agatha Christie.

BridLit has always been a festival rooted in a sense of place. Exciting Dorset voices include novelists Imani Thompson, Angela Tomaski and Tom Cox, painter Nicholas Hely-Hutchinson and folklorists Jon Woolcott and Martin Maudsley. We’ll also be getting out and about in the locality with an evening of pub philosophy with Julian Baggini, guided antiques rambles led by TV personality James Braxton, and a unique chance to see behind the scenes at Mapperton House.

Finally KidLit, our new dedicated children’s day, offers events ranging from puppet-making workshops to a reading adventure with Costa Children’s Book Award-winner Jasbinder Bilan.


Already looking forward to securing your autumn literary calendar? Friends of BridLit can book from Friday 28 August, while general booking opens on Friday 11 September.

Become a Friend today and enjoy two weeks of priority booking, giving you first access to the programme. Your support also helps us continue to grow a festival that brings extraordinary writers and readers to West Dorset year after year.