Special Guests At The Raworths Harrogate 2025 Literature Festival

The programme for the Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival has been announced, confirming a distinguished assembly of public figures from the spheres of politics, sport, comedy, and broadcasting. The event is scheduled to take place from October 9-19.

The festival has curated a schedule featuring bestselling authors and influential thinkers, reinforcing its reputation as a premier literary gathering in North Yorkshire. This year’s event promises a comprehensive exploration of contemporary and historical subjects through a series of talks, discussions, and special events.

A convergence of politics and memoir

The 2025 literature festival will feature a strong contingent of political figures offering personal and professional reflections. Among the most anticipated special guests is Nicola Sturgeon, the former First Minister of Scotland. She is scheduled to discuss her new memoir, Frankly, which provides a detailed account of her ascent from a working-class background in Ayrshire to becoming the longest-serving First Minister in the nation's history. Her appearance offers a platform to examine the complexities of modern politics from a deeply personal viewpoint.

Joining the political discourse is Sir Jeremy Hunt, the former Chancellor and Foreign Secretary. He will present the central thesis of his book, Can We Be Great Again?, which scrutinises the United Kingdom's position on the global stage. Drawing upon his extensive experience within government, his talk is expected to analyse strategies for enhancing national confidence and capability. Adding another dimension to the theme of politics is the journalist and commentator Sarah Vine. Her memoir, How Not to Be a Political Wife, chronicles two decades at the centre of Westminster life, examining the personal and emotional toll exacted by a life lived in the public and political spotlight. The collective presence of these individuals ensures a robust examination of contemporary governance and its human consequences.

Rachel Tunnicliffe, Senior Partner at Raworths Solicitors, commented on the firm's long-standing involvement.

“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 is now our 13th year sponsoring this brilliant Festival which has helped put Harrogate on the literary map. 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.”

Insights from broadcasting, sport and design

The festival programme extends beyond politics to include celebrated names from broadcasting and sport. Television personality Chris Tarrant will share the narrative behind his book, For the Love of Bears, offering a heartfelt examination of the natural world and the lessons it provides on resilience and family. His session represents a shift towards environmental and personal themes.

The world of cricket will be represented by Graham Gooch, one of England's most accomplished batsmen. Gooch will delve into his extensive career in the sport, offering a historical perspective on how the game has evolved over several decades.

Another prominent figure from the world of sport, former football player and manager Martin O’Neill, will discuss his book, The Changing Game: The Past, Present and Future of Football. His analysis, derived from 50 years of professional experience, will provide a comprehensive overview of the beautiful game.

In the field of design, Patrick Grant, known for his work as a designer and judge on The Great British Sewing Bee, will advocate for sustainable consumerism. His book, Less: Stop Buying So Much Rubbish – How Having Fewer, Better Things Can Make Us Happier, presents a compelling argument for mindful consumption. These sessions highlight the diverse expertise present at the festival.

An eclectic mix of comedy, culture and social commentary

A variety of performers and thinkers will contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the event. The comedy section features authors and stand-up comedians including Mark Watson, who will discuss the themes of human connection in his latest novel, One Minute Away. Fellow comedian Helen Lederer will explore the experiences detailed in her popular memoir, Not That I’m Bitter, reflecting on a career that has spanned alternative comedy, television, and radio. Dom Joly, a returning favourite, will discuss his career, from hidden-camera television to his travel writing, including his latest book, The Conspiracy Tourist.

Further intellectual depth is provided by speakers addressing complex social and historical topics:

• Journalist Yasmin Alibhai-Brown will reflect on her career and provide insights on current political and social issues.
• Philosopher A C Grayling returns to Harrogate to discuss his book Discriminations: Making Peace in the Culture Wars.
• Broadcaster John Suchet will present his book In Search of Beethoven: A Personal Journey, a work that blends biography with music scholarship in his exploration of Beethoven.
• Historian Kate Vigurs will present Mission Europe, revealing the true stories of female agents of the Special Operations Executive (SOE).

The programme also includes sessions on neurodiversity, with Alex Partridge, co-founder of LADbible and podcaster, discussing his book Making ADHD Make Sense. This work is inspired by his popular podcast ADHD Chatter and aims to demystify the condition. Writers and podcasters Chris and Jen Sugden will also appear to talk about their fantasy adventure, High Vaultage.

The festival's enduring impact on cultural life

The Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival, organised by Harrogate International Festivals, has cemented its position as a leading literary event, recognised by publications such as Harper’s Bazaar and the Guardian. Its success is attributed to its ability to attract bestselling authors and provide an intimate setting for intellectual exchange. The festival’s mission is to celebrate great writing and leading thinkers, presenting a diverse programme designed to entertain, educate, and challenge a wide audience. The continued support from Raworths, the title sponsor, is instrumental in maintaining the event's high calibre and its contribution to the region's cultural life.

Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, articulated the event's unique value:

“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, from leading figures in politics, sport and comedy to stars of TV and broadcasting, creating that shared space to spark conversation and discovery.”

“We are especially grateful to Raworths Solicitors, our long-standing partner of 13 years, whose support makes it possible for this Festival to thrive. Festivals like this can only exist through such commitment, helping to nurture cultural life and ensure these collective experiences continue for audiences today and in the future.”

The festival will be held at The Crown Hotel and the Wesley Centre in Harrogate from October 9-19. Tickets and the full programme are available via the Harrogate International Festivals website.