A cracking line-up of Britain’s greatest authors and speakers has been unveiled for the forthcoming Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival.

Raworths Solicitors are delighted to announce the full programme for the Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival 2026 which will bring together a vibrant mix of big names and compelling stories – covering everything from gardens and The Beatles to crime fiction and memoir.

The festival – which will run from October 11-25 at the Crown Hotel and Cedar Court Hotel – will feature a dazzling and diverse programme that includes national treasures, bestselling authors, fascinating thinkers and exciting new voices.

Among the many highlights will be bestselling novelist Kate Mosse, who will discuss her new book, Autumn; broadcaster, writer and restaurateur Dame Prue Leith, author of Being Old…and Learning to Love It!; journalist and author Samira Ahmed whose new book A Hard Day's Night examines the Beatles’ iconic first film, and John Sergeant who will discuss his extraordinary life in journalism and TV, including some of his memorable political encounters.

Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, & Rachel Tunnicliffe, Senior Partner at Raworths. (Picture Gerard Binks)

placeholder image — Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, & Rachel Tunnicliffe, Senior Partner at Raworths. (Picture Gerard Binks)

In addition, acclaimed broadcaster and journalist Sophie Raworth will be the special guest at this year’s Yorkshire Life Literary Lunch on October 22 when she will discuss her inspiring memoir, Running on Air.

Rachel Tunnicliffe, Senior Partner at Raworths Solicitors, said: “This is our 14th year sponsoring this fantastic festival and this year’s brilliant line-up features famous writers, rising stars and thought-provoking panel events.”

Historical stories have long been a feature of Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival and this year includes the remarkable tale of one of the Nazi regime's most senior figures who saved the life of a British POW.

David Lascelles, author of Out of Colditz: My Father, the POW and the Nazi Who Controlled His Fate, charts the extraordinary true story of Gottlob Berger, whose unexpected intervention spared the life of Lascelles's father during the final days of the Second World War.

Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, said: “The Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival 2026 really does have something for every kind of reader.”

Tickets are available from: www.harrogateinternationalfestivals.com

Or call the Box Office on 01423 562 303.