Another unforgettable Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival

The Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival has once again come to an end after five days of bookish brilliance.

The annual East Devon festival has built an excellent reputation, delivering a stellar line-up of authors, thought-provoking discussions, and engaging events.

It seems poised to continue solidifying its place as one of the best literary events in the South West.

Jonathan Dimbleby, Liz Earle, the Rev Richard Coles, Sarah Rainsford, Rick Stein, and Robert Harris are but a few of the famous faces who visited the seaside town this year.

Above: Liz Earle. Image: Steven O’Gorman

However, the festival also provides ample opportunities for local writers and budding authors.

Audiences attending Iain Dale’s Susan Ward Memorial Talk on dictatorships were reportedly shocked to hear that 70 per cent of the world's nations are ruled by dictatorships and only 60 per cent of Britons voted in the last general election. 

Additionally, historian and commentator Anthony Seldon told a packed public hall that the Tories will be out of power for the next decade.

Above: Rob Biddulph. Image: Steven O’Gorman

Alongside the talks was a full programme of family events and workshops, as well as a mini marquee on the green.

The central marquee ensured each evening was energised, hosting a range of free entertainment from opera to folk singers. 

Sue Briggs, chair of the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival committee, said: “It’s been a wonderful five days here in Budleigh. Thanks to everyone who came along, to our sponsors and supporters, and special thanks to our team of volunteers who work so hard to ensure everything goes smoothly during festival week.

Above: Image: Steven O’Gorman

“This is the last festival for our current artistic director, Annie Ashworth, who has brought us so many memorable moments, not just this year but over the last seven years. She has been instrumental in developing our festival, so we are very grateful to her and wish her all the best.”

Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival will hold its Spring Weekend event on March 7 and 8, 2025, and next year’s main festival will take place from September 17-21, 2025.

You can receive priority booking for the 2025 festival by signing up to be a Festival Friend via their website.