The Wells Festival of Literature begins on Friday, 17 October at Cedars Hall, with opening night featuring Sebastian Faulks and Tim Spector already sold out.

Even though the first event is fully booked, the festival runs through 25 October and includes talks, poetry, panels and interactive sessions across Wells and the surrounding area.

Weekend highlights include:

• Saturday: Sophy Roberts opens with a tale about an elephant training school, followed by Horatio Clare on the small boats crisis. Gina Rippon examines how science overlooked autism in women, and Sumit Paul‑Choudhury offers views on optimism. Meanwhile, Kit the Poet will wander the venue offering personal poems on request.
• Sunday: Nick Trend speaks on passion and art, then Howard Jacobson discusses love in later life in the Book Group event. In the evening, Rowan Williams and Lamorna Ash talk faith and younger generations. The day may end with the Wells Literary Quiz for enthusiastic readers.

Later in the week, visitors can hear from Carol Klein, Prue Leith, Charlie Taylor (BBC Somerset) paired with Simon Kuper in a football discussion, and Stuart Maconie recounts behind‑the‑scenes stories from The Beatles.

The festival at Cedars Hall, Wells Cathedral School's arts venue, is supported by a Waterstones pop‑up bookshop, café and bar, evening Thai street food, and discounts at local restaurants for ticket holders.

Festival context

The 2025 festival brings together voices from literature, science, media and public life in a cultural boost for Wells and Mendip. The week‑long festival draws visitors into the city centre, supports local businesses, and highlights Wells as a thriving creative hub.

What to do next

Book tickets in advance for popular sessions. Arrive early for seating at Cedars Hall. Take time to browse the bookshop and enjoy the food and local restaurant offers.

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