Hexham Book Festival 2025 runs from Friday 2nd to Sunday, 11th of May this year, covering not one but two weekends. This is the 19th year of Northumberland’s premier book festival. It draws fascinating minds (on stage and off!) from all corners of the UK and beyond to this lovely market town, just south of Hadrian’s Wall.
There are almost 60 events taking place this year with some Fringe shows extending the enjoyment outside the main nine days.
The Hexham Book Festival 2025 programme is out today. Booking opens to Friends of Hexham Book Festival on Friday, 7th March and to the public on Monday, 10th March.
Here are some highlights to give you just a flavour of what is on offer at the book festival. There really is something for everyone and we hope to welcome you to Hexham in May.
HISTORY BUFF?
Andrew Ziminski – Church Going (Sunday 11th May)
Andrew Ziminski, a veteran stonemason and church conservator, serves as an informal guide to medieval churches in the British Isles. In Church Going, he explores their histories, features, and furnishings, from flying buttresses to rood screens and lichgates to chancels. (Hexham Abbey, nearby, is well worth exploring after the event with your new-found understanding).
FICTION LOVER?
Jonathan Coe – The Proof of my Innocence (Sun 4th May)
The Proof of my Innocence is a hilarious political critique wrapped up in a murder mystery. Jonathan Coe, one of Britain’s most loved novelists, shows how the key to understanding the present can often be found in the murkiest corners of the past.
HOOKED ON POLITICS?
Simon Hart: Ungovernable (Fri 9th May)
Former Chief Whip and MP Simon Hart witnessed Britain’s recent political turbulence, from Brexit talks and Liz Truss’s brief 49-day premiership to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
DANCE AFICIONADO?
Wayne Sleep: Just Different (Fri 9th May)
Wayne Sleep, as a working-class, gay man, often felt like an outsider. Join Wayne as he recounts the journey that led to dancing with ballet legends Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn, socialising with Freddie Mercury, and performing alongside Princess Diana.
FASHIONISTA?
Patrick Grant: Less (Fri 9th May)
Join Patrick Grant, Great British Sewing Bee judge and advocate for ethical fashion, as he encourages us to consume fewer clothes and cherish the ones we own.
CRIME ADDICT?
LJ Ross: 10-year anniversary of Holy Island (Fri 9th May)
An event exclusive to Hexham Book Festival. Come and celebrate Local author LJ Ross in marking 10 years since the publication of her first book, Holy Island. In the past decade, LJ Ross has sold over 10 million copies of her books worldwide!
ARCHERS FAN?
Julie Beckett: The Archers Unseen (Sun 11th May)
Explore Ambridge with a writer who has been working on this beloved Radio 4 ‘soap’ since 1998. Go behind the scenes in this secret history of the Archers.
FRINGE BENEFITS
There are several Fringe events taking place outside the main body of the book festival such as:
Film: The Return at the Forum Cinema (Sun 23rd March)
Part of Tyne Valley Film Festival. The Return is a new adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey starring Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche. A chance to enjoy Hexham’s indie Forum cinema – an art deco gem.
An Evening with Kate Fox at The Garden Coffee House (Wed 30th April)
Develop your creative writing and dip your toe into the world of spoken word. Learn from writer, broadcaster and poet Kate Fox in this funky café hidden away on Hexham’s Hallgate.
Mary Beard and Raphael Cormack (Fri 23rd May)
Mother and son Mary Beard and Raphael Cormack will discuss their recent books (Emperor of Rome and Holy Men of the Electromagnetic Age respectively) and the significance of studying history.
Everyone Welcome
Queen’s Hall is the main venue for Hexham Book Festival. It has automatic doors and step-free access to the main auditorium, studio, galleries and café. Accessible toilets are available.
Hearing loop facilities are available in the auditorium and balcony. For details, ask at the Box Office or call 01434 652477.
Please contact Queen’s Hall in advance if you need assistance. Companions of wheelchair users attend events free, and guide dogs are welcome everywhere.
Where to stay for Hexham Book Festival
Hexham has an excellent range of accommodation to choose from whatever your budget.
Where to eat during Hexham Book Festival
Hexham has a fantastic food scene. In fact, Olive Magazine recently declared it to be “the ultimate foodie town to explore” in Northumberland. Take a look at our page on where to eat and drink in Hexham to see why.
We hope to see you at Hexham Book Festival. The festival always brings a fantastic buzz to the town and is one of our favourite events of the year.
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