The Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival has unveiled its 2025 programme, promising a glittering line-up of bestselling authors, politicians, broadcasters, and sporting legends.
The festival, running from 9th-19th October 2025, is once again sponsored by Raworths Solicitors and will take place at The Crown Hotel and the Wesley Centre in Harrogate.
Now in its 13th year of partnership with Harrogate International Festivals, Raworths continues to play a vital role in bringing world-class literary talent to North Yorkshire.
This year’s headline guests include:
- Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s longest-serving First Minister, discussing her candid new memoir Frankly.
- Sir Jeremy Hunt, former Chancellor and Foreign Secretary, exploring how the UK can reclaim global influence in Can We Be Great Again?
Nicola Sturgeon (📸 Charlotte Hadden) & Sir Jeremy Hunt (📸 Johnny Piper)
- Chris Tarrant, beloved broadcaster, sharing heartfelt reflections from For the Love of Bears.
- Graham Gooch, England cricket legend, revisiting his career and the evolution of the sport.
Chris Tarrant & Graham Gooch
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Lyse Doucet, the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, headlining the Raworths Literary Lunch.
Lyse Doucet
Returning favourite Dom Joly will reflect on his life and career from hidden-camera stunts to high-risk travels, as well as the stories behind his books, including his latest, The Conspiracy Tourist.
Also appearing at the Festival is broadcaster and Classic FM presenter John Suchet whose book In Search of Beethoven: A Personal Journey, is a deeply personal odyssey that blends biography, travel and music scholarship.
History buffs will get to hear about the extraordinary true stories of the female agents of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) from Kate Vigurs in her gripping new book, Mission Europe.
Other Festival highlights include writers and podcasters Chris and Jen Sugden who talk about the world of High Vaultage, their latest hilarious fantasy adventure, while neurodiversity advocate and podcaster Alex Partridge, co‑founder of LADbible, will talk about his book Making ADHD Make Sense inspired by his podcast ADHD Chatter.
The lists doesn't stop there, with designer Patrick Grant, comedians Mark Watson and Helen Lederer, journalist Sarah Vine, philosopher A.C. Grayling, and football icon Martin O’Neill amongst more
Rachel Tunnicliffe, senior partner at Raworths Solicitors, said:
“The Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival is one of the highlights of Yorkshire’s cultural calendar and we are delighted to be associated with it. This year’s incredible line-up of talented authors will no doubt captivate, amuse and inspire audiences. The Festival is a genuine celebration of great books and life-affirming stories and we are proud to play a part in bringing such a fantastic event to our town.”
Sharon Canavar, chief executive of Harrogate International Festivals, added:
“Festivals create something unique: a shared space where ideas, voices and audiences come together in one place, at one time. The Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival once again brings a vibrant mix of inspirational authors and special guests to Harrogate, creating that shared space to spark conversation and discovery.”
Recognised by Harper’s Bazaar as “one of the UK’s best literary festivals” and by The Guardian as “one of the top 3 literary festivals in the UK,” the event has cemented its reputation as a cultural highlight, attracting national and international attention.
The full programme can be seen and tickets purchased here, or call 01423 562 303.
Listen to Your Harrogate's Alex Cann chatting to Sharon Canavar below:
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