Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival

From Churchill’s legacy to the profound impact of books on our lives, this year’s Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival Spring Weekend promises an inspiring and thought-provoking programme for all.

Taking place in the town’s St Peter’s Church on March 7 and 8, the festival brings together a distinguished lineup of authors and speakers who will share captivating stories, bold ideas, and fresh perspectives. Attendees can look forward to exploring history, politics, music, justice, and personal journeys, all while celebrating the power of the written and spoken word.

The impressive lineup, who will be covering fascinating topics from Churchill’s legacy to the profound impact of books on our lives, includes John Suchet, Sir Graham Brady, Sinclair McKay, Dr Lucy Pollock, Prof Sarah Churchwell, Steve Crawshaw, and Lucy Mangan.

• John Suchet will bring his passion for Beethoven to Budleigh as he shares fascinating insights into the life and works of the great composer.
• Sir Graham Brady, former chairman of the influential 1922 Committee, will delve into the intricacies of political leadership and the current state of British politics, sharing reflections from his extensive career in Westminster.
• Sinclair McKay will present his book Meeting Churchill: A Life in 90 Encounters, which captures the many facets of Winston Churchill’s life and character through a series of extraordinary meetings and anecdotes.
• Dr Lucy Pollock, author of The Golden Rule: Lessons in Loving from a Doctor of Ageing, will provide a thoughtful exploration of how we care for others and navigate the challenges and joys of ageing with compassion and dignity.
• Professor Sarah Churchwell, who is one of our leading writers on American politics and society, will consider what lies ahead for the US and what that might mean for the UK and Europe.
• Steve Crawshaw, in his work Prosecuting the Powerful, examines war crimes and the pursuit of justice, highlighting powerful stories of accountability and the fight to challenge impunity in global conflicts.
• Lucy Mangan will entertain and inspire with Bookish, a lively and humorous look at the books that shape us, exploring how stories have the power to change lives and influence who we become.

This exciting lineup marks the first event curated by Kate Abbey, Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival’s new Artistic Director. The festival relies on its dedicated team of volunteers to stage popular events that bring a diverse range of inspiring authors and speakers to East Devon every year.

Sue Briggs, chair of the festival committee, said: “We’re delighted to welcome these exciting authors to Budleigh Salterton. This Spring Weekend offers something for everyone, with opportunities to hear from exceptional writers who will challenge, entertain, and inspire us.”

Tickets for the Spring Festival go on sale to Festival Friends on January 27 and to the general public on February 3.