A former Great British Bake Off judge is among the big names announced for this year's Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival.
The annual festival returns from 11th to 25th October, bringing bestselling authors, broadcasters, politicians and entertainers to venues across Harrogate.
And former Bake Off judge, broadcaster and restaurateur Dame Prue Leith is among this year's headline acts.
She will discuss her latest book, 'Being Old…and Learning to Love It!', sharing her thoughts on ageing well, staying curious and finding joy in later life.
Acclaimed novelist Kate Mosse will also appear, discussing her new book Autumn, described as a celebration of the changing seasons that combines memoir with nature writing.
Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, said:
"We are delighted to announce some of the headliners for the Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival 2026.
"This year's diverse programme brings together some fabulous writers, with more big announcements still to come!"
Broadcaster and journalist Sophie Raworth will be the special guest at this year's Yorkshire Life Literary Lunch on 22nd October, where she will talk about her memoir Running on Air.
Comedian, presenter and author Julian Clary will introduce his latest murder mystery, The Midmorning Murders, while Booker Prize-winning novelist Sir Ben Okri will discuss his new book Waking the Warriors.
International bestselling author Heather Morris, whose novel The Tattooist of Auschwitz became a global phenomenon, is also on the programme and will speak about her latest novel, The Piano Teacher of Montparnasse.
Political analyst Sir John Curtice will also appear, offering his insights into Britain's evolving political landscape.
Rachel Tunnicliffe, Senior Partner at Raworths Solicitors, said:
"We are proud to be the sponsors of this world class Festival which brings the power of stories and the joy of storytelling to Harrogate.
"Once again there is a whole host of big names and bestselling authors coming to our town, and we can't wait for what promises to be a memorable Festival this autumn."
The festival has previously been described as one of the UK's leading literary festivals and attracts thousands of visitors to Harrogate each year.
Events will take place at The Crown Hotel and Cedar Court Hotel from 11th to 25th October.
Tickets go on sale to Friends of the Festival on Wednesday 5th August, before general sale opens on Wednesday 19th August.
Visitors can book via the Harrogate International Festivals website or by calling the box office on 01423 562303.
Free bus travel scheme launched for Harrogate children
Miriam Margolyes and Richard Ayoade to perform in Harrogate
Asian hornet alert issued after sighting in Ripon
New traditional sweet shop unveiled at Lightwater Valley
Campaigners launch legal challenge over Vale of York services decision
CCTV appeal: Police seek Harrogate crockery thief
FatFace to close Ripon store this month
Everything you need to know about Ripley Show this weekend
Disability charity calls on Harrogate café to address accessibility issues
Winning floats revealed for St Wilfrid's Procession in Ripon
Harrogate's Turkish Baths shortlisted for three national awards
Harrogate campaigner calls for action on antisocial behaviour
Seven major exhibitions to bring £10.5m boost to Harrogate economy
Ake & Humphris unveils new veranda on Leeds Road
Patsy Kensit chats to Your Harrogate about Emmerdale return
Harrogate MP calls on Andy Burnham to give Yorkshire its own Parliament
Campaigners hand in petition over doubling of second homes council tax
Thousands expected for St Wilfrid's Procession in Ripon this weekend
Second arrest made after cattle theft in Ripley
Residents call for rethink over chicken farm expansion near Boroughbridge
