What’s On - Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival 2025

This May, Tunbridge Wells is playing host to some of the country’s best literary talents as the fourth annual literary festival returns to the town - and it’s safe to say that we’re very excited for it! 

Offering a celebration of stories, and showcasing established and new literary faces alike, the Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival aims to spark engagement and curiosity. Running from 5th - 11th May, this year’s festival has a fantastic lineup, with an eclectic array of writers and performers taking to stages around Tunbridge Wells. 

With over 50 events at venues across the town, ranging from crime fiction talks, poetry readings and workshops; to children’s fiction, literary lunches and historical Q&As, there’s something for everyone. Speakers also include some well-known faces such as Martin Clunes, Rupert Everett, Richard Ayoade, Lucy Worsley and Stephen Mangan.

It’s been hard to whittle down our favourites as we’re spoilt for choice, but here are our top picks for this year’s festival. To see the full lineup, please visit - https://twlitfest.co.uk/

FICTION

Martin Clunes: Meetings with Remarkable Animals

The Assembly Hall Theatre

Wednesday 7th May, 7.30pm

As one of TV’s most loved personalities, Martin Clunes has graced our screens since the ‘90s in hit shows such as Men Behaving Badly, Doc Martin and Islands of Britain. 

Now, inspired by his own adoption of a former guide dog, Martin Clunes has authored Meetings With Remarkable Animals - a celebration of the fascinating, moving and sometimes astonishing ways that animals have enriched our lives. 

In this Q&A with celebrity interviewer Gabby Huddart, the writer will discuss his own life-changing encounters with animals in a conversation that promises to be both heartwarming and inspiring.

Chris Chibnall: Death At The White Hart

The Amelia Scott

Thursday 8th May, 7pm

Even if you don’t recognise his name immediately, I have no doubt that you’ll be familiar with the work of TV writer Chris Chibnall. As the creator and writer of award-winning ITV series Broadchurch and showrunner on Doctor Who, this highly-acclaimed scriptwriter and executive producer is well-versed in crime and mystery. 

The session will see Chris Chibnall discuss his debut novel, Death At The White Hart - a murder mystery set in a small village in Dorset. Recently published and set to grip in a similar way to his TV dramas, he will be interviewed by publishing expert, Hannah Griffiths, followed by an audience Q&A and book signing.

Abi Daré: And So I Roar

The Amelia Scott

Saturday 10th May, 12pm

Following on from her evocative, best selling debut novel, The Girl With The Louding Voice, Abi Daré second novel has already proven just as successful.

A sequel to her first book, And So I Roar, continues the story of teenage protagonist Adunni as she attempts to start a new life in Lagos. Praised for its honesty, bravery and innovation, this compelling and empowering novel promises to be a moving illustration of a young girl’s journey. 

Award-winning author Abi Daré was raised in Lagos herself, and will share insights into her writing and books before taking part in a Q&A and book signing.

Nikki May - The Motherless Land

The Council Chamber

Saturday 10th May, 4.30pm

A powerful de-colonial telling of Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park, This Motherless Land by Nikki May explore identity, culture, race and love.

The novel follows Funke, who is sent to live in England from Lagos after her mother dies in an accident. It’s described as a “witty, warm and hugely entertaining story about love and how it can make a difference between surviving and thriving”.

Interviewed by Tunbridge Wells legal Partner, Victoria Sampson, Nikki May will discuss her influences, inspiration and themes of the novel before taking part in a Q&A and book signing.

HUMOUR

Richard Ayoade - The Unfinished Harauld Hughes

The Assembly Hall Theatre

Thursday 8th May, 7.30pm

Catch writer, director and comedy favourite Richard Ayoade as he discusses his (fictional) quest to rescue Harauld Hughes - the almost mythical mid-century playwright - from obscurity. 

Renowned for his dry, surreal humour, Richard Ayoade will be delving into the story of his alter ego - filmmaker and amateur dentist, also named Richard Ayoade - as he embarks on a documentary about the work of his doppelganger, Harauld Hughes. 

Taking audiences on the journey of his mission to understand the unfathomable collapse of Hughes’ final film, the book has been described by The Guardian as “part satirical and part pure whimsy, and it’s very beguiling.”

To be honest, I confused myself when writing this synopsis as it’s so meta and full of fictional layers, but I have no doubt that it’ll be very funny and entertaining. There will also be a book signing after the show.

Matt Winning: Hot Mess

Trinity Theatre

Friday 9th May, 7pm

Climate change may not be top of your list when asked about comedic subject matters, but somehow Hot Mess creates a light-hearted, relatable take on this very heavy topic.

Stand-up comedian and environmental economist Dr Matt Winning educates and entertains in his enlightening show, based on the book of the same name. A favourite at the Edinburgh Fringe and described as “the sort of doctor who will rush to your side if you fall ill on a plane, but only to berate you for flying”, Dr Winning’s unique approach and comedic perspective has proven popular with audiences across the country.

Austentatious - An Improvised Jane Austen Novel

The Assembly Hall Theatre

Friday 9th May, 7.30pm

Featuring a stellar group of award-winning writers, comedians and performers including Rachel Parris, Cariad Lloyd and Graham Dickson, this is one of the shows that we are most excited about during the Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival.

After taking the Edinburgh Fringe by storm in 2012, before moving onto the West End, Austentatious is improv comedy gold. Performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment, the talented cast will improvise a hilarious new Jane Austen novel, entirely inspired by a random title from the audience on the night.

Set to be a truly unique evening of comedy, culture and laughs, this is one not to miss!

CHILDREN'S / YOUNG ADULT

Lex Croucher: Reputation

Tunbridge Wells Forum

Tuesday 6th May, 7pm

Award-winning author Lex Croucher shares their tips on creating compelling, complex queer characters for modern audiences in historical settings.

Focusing on their Reputation series, this session is framed as “Regency romances with a twist”. This is one for Jane Austen and Bridgerton fans!

Lex Croucher will be taking part in a Q&A and book signing after the main event.

The Fart That Saved The Universe

The Assembly Hall Theatre

Thursday 8th May, 10am

Join brother and sister duo, Stephen and Anita Mangan, for an interactive session to tie in with their new novel, The Fart That Saved The Universe (out in May).

Following the success of their laugh-out-loud books The Fart That Changed The World and Escape The Rooms, this latest offering promised to be just as hilarious and expressively illustrated by Anita Mangan.

Attendees are encouraged to bring paper and pencils to the events for draw-alongs, games and stories. It definitely sounds like one that older children (7+ is the recommended age) will enjoy!

Supertato - Happy Birthday Nitwit!

The Assembly Hall Theatre

Friday 9th May, 10am

If you have kids of a certain age, you’ll most likely be familiar with CBeebies favourite, Supertato (and now have the theme tune stuck in your head - sorry!).

Aimed at Key Stage 1 school groups, join Paul Linnet, co-creator of the Supertato books as he introduces his newest offering, Happy Birthday Nitwit! Promising fun, giggles and lots of veggies, this school event is set to be a hit with 4-7 year olds.

The Drama Geezers - Now That’s What I Call A Story

Little Vic Theatre

Saturday 10th May, 11am

Join The Drama Geezers, Simon Batchelor and Paul Andrew, for an interactive storytelling extravaganza! Aimed at children between the ages of 4 and 11, this session lets the kids take the reins as they create a brand new story through imaginative play and creativity.

Collaboratively weaving a narrative filled with whimsical characters and wild escapades, children will love being part of the process and watching as the story unfolds before them. Once the adventure concludes, they will also have the opportunity to sketch the tale on giant paper. 

This sounds like a really fun, interactive and original way to get the kids as excited about books and storytelling as we are. 

Eva Wong Nava & Natelle Quek: Dancing Dumplings for My One and Only

The Amelia Scott

Saturday 10th May, 11am

Aimed at children aged 3 - 6, join author Eva Wong Nava and illustrator Natelle Quek for a storytime session of their charming book, Dancing Dumplings for My One and Only. Telling the story of a little girl who is shown how to many dumplings by her Grandma, this is a lovely story full of love, warmth and the importance of family bonds.

The reading will be followed by arts and crafts for the little ones to get involved in, and the chance to colour in and make their own dumpling themed bunting to take home.

This sounds like the perfect way to start the weekend if you have pre-school or KS1 primary school aged children. 

MEMOIR / FACTUAL

Creative Legacies: Rhianna Pratchett & Harry Whittaker

Little Vic Theatre

Saturday 10th May, 2.30pm

The children of two literary greats (Terry Pratchett and Lucinda Riley) reflect upon their legacies and discuss how they are continuing their parents’ storytelling careers through videogames, improvised comedy, radio and the written word.

Meeting for the first time in this iconic conversation, this is set to be a fascinating Q&A, with the pair discussing how being raised by creative parents has inspired their own careers in the arts.

The American No: An Evening with Rupert Everett

The Assembly Hall Theatre

Sunday 11th May, 3pm

I’ve had a soft spot for the fabulous Rupert Everett since the very first time I heard him sing the words, “The moment I wake up…” in My Best Friend’s Wedding (if you know, you know!), so I was very excited to see him coming to Tunbridge Wells to discuss his debut collection of short stories.

Filled with love, loss, glamour and the unexpected, his eight masterful stories showcase his ability to blend homour, emotion and sharp observation. With a cast of extraordinary characters, tales range from the evocative account of Oscar Wilde’s last night in Paris, to a Russian countess who confronts sex and age in a Wiltshire tea shop.

In conversation with Gabby Huddart, the acclaimed actor, writer and director will reflect on the joys and challenges of transitioning from acting to writing. The conversation will be followed by a Q&A and book signing. I have no doubt that this one will be jam-packed with quick wit and fascinating anecdotes.

GARDENING & COOKERY

Martha Swales: Give It A Grow

The Amelia Scott

Saturday 10th May, 1pm

If you’ve ever been tempted to give gardening a go but had no idea where to start, Martha Swales’ book is the best starting point you could imagine! As an avid gardener with a infectious passion, Martha’s practical book is sure to inspire even the most novice of growers to get outside and ‘give it a grow’!

As a TV producer and director, Martha Swales has a huge following on social media, offering a fresh and uncomplicated approach to growing your own produce and making gardening fun. Her session will discuss the book, and how fun and easy it can be to grown your own slice of nature.

The hour-long session will be followed by a Q&A and book signing.

Sarah Raven - A Year Full of Pots

The Amelia Scott

Sunday 11th May, 11am

Legendary gardener and award-winning author, Sarah Raven, discusses her new book - A Year Full of Pots, talking through design principles that can work on any scale. From planting ideas to monthly guides, expert Sarah Raven will share her tried and tested approaches to making your garden look fabulous all year round.

Hosted by interviewer Gaby Huddart, this Q&A is perfect for any budding horticulturalists or lovers of nature. There will also be a book signing after the show.

Literary Lunch with Atul Kochhar

Essence at The Pantiles

Sunday 11th May, 12.30pm

A book event to tantalise the taste buds, this literary lunch will see guests enjoy a fine dining experience with Michelin-starred chef, Atul Kochhar, at his popular restaurant in The Pantiles.

Renowned as one of the finest Indian chefs in the country, attendees will sample Atul Kochhar’s pioneering food with a three-course meal and welcome drink at Essence at The Pantiles, followed by a Q&A with the chef himself to discuss his book, 30 Minute Curries.

Having eaten at the restaurant recently, I am confident that you’ll be in for a real treat with this unique literary event, and will definitely be one for the foodies. 

WORKSHOPS

Kelly-Anne Wills: Illustration Workshops

The Amelia Scott

Sunday 11th May, 1.30pm / 3pm

Whether you’re a dab hand and wanting a help advancing from the classic stick figures, artist Kelly-Anne Wills’ illustration workshops are certain to inspire and unlock some hidden skills.

With 25 years in the TV industry, Kell-Anne Wills has been a Scenic Artist and Art Director for the likes of Disney, Nickelodeon, Channel 4 and BBC. In these hour-long workshops, she will be teaching how to draw all sorts of fantasy creatures - from knights and wizards, to devils and dragons.

As a teacher for both adults and teens, this sounds like such a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

Kimberly Pauley: Creative Fantasy Writing Workshop

The Amelia Scott

Sunday 11th May, 2pm

Perfect for aspiring writers, this two-hour workshop with award-winning YA author Kimberley Pauly will teach attendees how to write thrilling fantasy stories for a range of different audiences.

The brains behind The Accident Wizard, Sucks To Be Me and Cat Girl’s Day Off will be exploring everything from worldbuilding to plot hooks and character design in this detailed and demonstrative session. There will also be a book signing after the workshop.