Oxford Literary Festival 2026: Dates, speakers and what’s on

The Oxford Literary Festival returns for spring 2026 with a packed nine-day programme of talks, debates and family events across the city.

Back for another spring season, the Oxford Literary Festival presents a diverse programme of discussions, conversations and workshops in 2026.

Taking place across central Oxford — from Blackwell’s Bookshop and the Bodleian Libraries to the Sheldonian Theatre, the Weston Library and college venues — the festival brings together international authors, journalists, historians, intellectuals and poets.

Round & About highlights include major literary names, bestselling authors, family-friendly events and thought-provoking conversations on politics, history, culture and science.

When is Oxford Literary Festival 2026?

Oxford Literary Festival takes place from Saturday 21st to Sunday 29th March 2026.

Who will appear at Oxford Literary Festival 2026?

Standout figures featured in the main festival talks include Michael Morpurgo, acclaimed author of War Horse; Simon Schama, historian and writer known for his wide-ranging works; Antony Beevor, bestselling military historian; Michael Pollan, major nonfiction author on food, science and culture; and Tim Spector, scientist and author on health and diet.

The programme also features prominent political figures Sajid Javid, Ed Davey, Jeremy Hunt and Vince Cable, discussing current affairs and global challenges.

Best-selling authors spanning fiction and nonfiction include Peter Frankopan, author of The Silk Roads; international bestseller Kate Mosse; crime and children’s writer Anthony Horowitz; Girl with a Pearl Earring author Tracy Chevalier; espionage and history specialist Ben Macintyre; Nigella Lawson; classicist Mary Beard; and novelist Robert Harris.

There is also a strong programme aimed at families and young readers. Highlights include Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, offering insights into The Gruffalo and other classics; Michael Rosen with a children’s picture-book event; Hugh Bonneville, presenting his book for young readers; and Louie Stowell, discussing Loki: A Bad God’s Guide to Causing Chaos.

The festival’s dedicated Young People’s Programme also features workshops and sessions curated especially for children and teenagers.

What Literary Walks are available to book at Oxford Literary Festival 2026?

Alongside its programme of talks and discussions, the festival also offers opportunities to explore the city’s rich literary heritage beyond the lecture hall.

Visitors can enjoy guided literary walks through Oxford, tracing the footsteps of famous writers and discovering locations linked to the city’s long tradition of storytelling, scholarship and publishing.

These walking tours and related events offer a more informal way to engage with literature, combining history, architecture and anecdote, and provide a chance to experience Oxford itself as part of the festival.

They are a popular option for those looking to balance seated events with time outdoors, or to explore the city between talks.

Plus, browse for your next read at Blackwell’s Festival Bookshop at Blackwell Hall. The central pop-up bookshop stocks books from featured authors, with signings and browsing available throughout the festival.

For more information, visit Oxford Literary Festival’s website.

Image © Ray Harrington

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