Al Murray part of an exciting new chapter for Budleigh

Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival returns this September with five days of thought-provoking talks, powerful stories, and unforgettable encounters with acclaimed authors, fresh new voices and talented local writers.

Taking place from September 17, headline names include comedians and actors Alan Davies, Helen Lederer and Al Murray, historian Tracy Borman, broadcaster Mark Kermode, actor Larry Lamb, political commentator Gabriel Gatehouse and journalist Arifa Akbar. The festival also welcomes comedian and broadcaster Robin Ince, author Tiggy Walker and Rachel Joyce, much loved fiction author of the Harold Fry trilogy, among many others.

The 2025 festival explores the theme Hidden Stories – a thread which runs through several events that shine a light on lesser-known people, places and perspectives. Expect never-before-heard stories and conversations on everything from The Beatles to Gauguin, from the mysteries of the night to the future of our oceans, and from the women behind famous myths to the small boats crisis.

There are three exciting new additions this year:

• The Writer’s Hub, a dedicated space alongside our Marquee on the Green, for local writers at all stages of their writing journey. Hosted by Word Kitchen, the hub will offer a rich programme of talks, panels and networking (Wed and Thurs only).
• Festival Read: A List of Suspicious Things. Author Jennie Godfrey will speak about her bestselling debut. She has also guest-curated a line-up of brilliant fiction writers including Nussaibah Younis, Chris Chibnall, Jessica Stanley, Nikki May and Joanna Miller.
• Creative Writing Workshops with Arvon, the UK’s leading creative writing charity will be offering participants the chance to develop their craft with expert guidance.

With tickets starting from just £5, this year’s programme promises to deliver something for every reader, thinker and aspiring writer.

The festival’s trademark Family Weekend on Saturday and Sunday (September 20 and 21), offers free and low-cost fun with Myths & Legends-themed activities, workshops in music, storytelling and illustration. A highlight will be the Fairy Tales Musical Mash-Up with children’s author Gareth P Jones, which will be made as affordable as possible for families and priced just £2 per person. Other festival highlights include special anniversary events marking Adele Parks’ 25 Books in 25 Years, 200 years of train travel, Jane Austen at 250, and the Earl of Devon, Charles Courtenay, talking about Powderham Castle, which has been in the stewardship of the Courtenay family for an incredible 700 years.

This year also sees the introduction of exciting new festival food from Pickle Shack – offering everything from delicious festival platters to a celebratory Sunday lunch.

Sue Briggs, chair of Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival, said: “Budleigh will once again be buzzing this September with conversations, inspiration and imagination. Whether you’re here to meet your favourite author, discover a new voice, enjoy a writing workshop or share the joy of reading with your children, our festival offers a warm welcome and unforgettable experiences.

“Our artistic director, Kate Abbey has created a fantastic line-up of authors which sees our wonderful festival blend world-class literature with community spirit – and all in a glorious coastal setting. With talks, panels, family fun and a buzzing Festival Marquee full of books, treats and ideas – it’s the perfect place to be inspired.”

Tickets go on sale to Festival Friends on Monday, July 14 and on general sale on Monday, July 21.

For more details and to book, visit: www.budlitfest.org.uk