I love books. I’ve been a voracious reader since childhood, and there are few things I enjoy more than getting lost in a good story. Which is why I’m excited to be at the Cheltenham Literature Festival.
Cheltenham Literature Festival
Going strong for nearly a century, the festival is a great place to get into the literary spirit in one of England’s most beautiful towns.
If you want to see what it’s all about, read on for A Lady in London’s guide to the Cheltenham Literature Festival.
The Festival
Established in 1949, this 10-day event is the longest-running literature festival in the world.
It celebrates all things reading, writing, and storytelling, and over 600 figures from all genres can be seen in hundreds of workshops, debates, interviews, and more.
The festival is a good place to see famous names in literature, politics, culture, comedy, travel, film, and other fields.
The Cheltenham Literature Festival lineup is impressive every year, with everyone from winners of The Great British Bake Off to rock stars and novelists taking part.
In past years, celebrities like actress Helena Bonham Carter, Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellows, and prolific author Ian McEwan have taken part.
And that’s just the beginning. From bookshops to talks, interactive exhibits to informative lectures, there’s a lot going on.
How to Get to the Cheltenham Literature Festival
It’s easy to get here, too. There are trains from London and other parts of the UK to Cheltenham. Once at Cheltenham Spa station, it’s less than a 10-minute taxi ride (or a short bus ride) to Montpellier Gardens, where the festival takes place.
Location of the Cheltenham Literature Festival
Montpellier Gardens are right in the heart of Cheltenham, putting the festival in the town’s spotlight.
After getting your fill of the Cheltenham Literature Festival, it’s easy to explore the rest of this historic spa town and its stunning Regency architecture.
In fact, there’s a poetry trail you can follow through the town. Readings from poets who have appeared at the festival in the past have been recreated across the streets of Cheltenham. You can follow it via the festival app.
Festival Highlights
But back to the Cheltenham Literature Festival. When you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a park full of tents and marquees dedicated to all things storytelling.
Book Features
There are huge bookshops for both adults and children, theaters, pavilions, and more.
There’s even a bandstand that’s been converted into a “bookstand”, complete with comfy sofas, vintage furniture, and (of course) books.
Food and Drink
There are also plenty of places to eat and drink at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. There are outdoor food trucks with tables in between, and a dedicated picnic area if you want to bring your own meals.
There’s also a marquee with indoor stalls selling everything from crepes to vegan chili. There’s a small stage in front of the tables where you can be entertained while eating, too.
And this being Britain, there are plenty of bars. Better yet, there’s a Lit Crawl one night that blends a bar crawl with bookish content. Books and booze. The perfect combination.
Talks
There are also free talks in some of the tents, which is why I’m here. I’m leading four workshops on how to use Instagram for storytelling, and I’m one of a number of speakers offering a different perspective on traditional media.
Family Fun
For families, there’s even more fun. From a creative den to a mystery trail through a wild wood, there are lots of things around the gardens to entertain children and young people.
Visiting the Cheltenham Literature Festival
I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to the Cheltenham Literature Festival. I’ve loved being here and being part of it. If you get a chance to come, I hope the same is true for you.
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