November will see the welcome return of one of Chester’s most popular events for fans of the written and spoken word.

Since it launched in 1989, Chester Literature Festival has earned renowned and is respected as Britain’s longest-running event dedicated to literature and poetry.

Those attending the 2024 edition of the event can expect the same high-quality activities and experiences that the festival is associated with. Live performances and readings, special talks, book signings, award ceremonies and expert-led workshops are just some of the opportunities awaiting on this year’s programme.

A list of top talent appearing at the festival has already been announced, including Richard Ayoade, Ruby Wax and Mackenzie Crook, Simon Reeve, Shaparak Khorsandi, Lucy Worsley, Simon Reeve, George The Poet and Martin Fry, songwriter and singer for ABC, to name but a few.

Espionage authors Gregg Mosse and Ava Glass will discuss “Writing Spies in the Shadow of Bond” while John Nichol will take audiences on a journey of remembrance in “the Unknown Warrior”.

A range of special study sessions are planned, like the “How to Write a Book” and “How to Get Published” workshops, and festival favourite the Poetry Pub Crawl will return, once again led by Molly Naylor. Those wishing to attend any of the individual events listed are advised to book early as tickets sell out quickly.

The Chester Literature Festival will launch on Wednesday, November 6 to Saturday, November 16. The main hub for the festival is Storyhouse, Chester’s celebrated arts centre, which is located on Hunter Street.