Big Names Head To The Coast As Whitby Lit Fest Unveils Star-Studded Programme

Over fifty author events featuring bestselling writers, broadcasters, and performers will take place across four days this November as the Whitby Lit Fest returns.

Some of the biggest names in books will head to the coast this November for the 2026 Whitby Lit Fest.

Over fifty author events will run across four days from the 19th to the 22nd of November, featuring bestselling authors, broadcasters, actors, historians, and performers.

Internationally acclaimed novelist John Boyne, whose book The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas sold more than eleven million copies worldwide, headlines the festival. Broadcaster and novelist Steph McGovern will join him to discuss his new novel, The Weight of Angels.

Hairy Biker Si King will bring his first solo cookbook, Proper Home Cooking, to the town, while discussing his career taking food and friendship on the road.

Former BBC radio producer, Whitby resident, and festival patron Kate Fenton said:

"We always suspected the quirky, gothic charms of Whitby would attract bookworms. Even so, no-one could have predicted the instant, sell-out success of our very first Lit Fest last year. And this November’s line-up is, if anything, even more exciting. Four days crammed with gripping stories, sparky conversations and revealing interviews. Entertainment, inspiration, wit, wisdom - and fish and chips. What more could any book lover want?"

A wave of crime fiction will hit the coast, led by Ann Cleeves, the creator of the Vera and Shetland series. Diamond Dagger winner Mark Billingham will feature alongside award-winning author Elly Griffiths, who plans to discuss her novella, The Case of the Christmas Card.

Former BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin will tease her upcoming thriller, while psychologist Dr Sian Williams will discuss her book, The Power of Anxiety. Channel 4 news presenter Alex Thomson will also put political commentator Peter Oborne in the spotlight regarding his latest book, Complicit.

The journey from page to screen will see exploration from television producer Matt Baker and Emmy-award winning writer David Quantick. Actor Greta Scacchi will share the books behind her screen career, alongside arts journalist Jasper Rees.

Leading writers of gothic fiction, ghost stories, and folk horror will embrace the town's dramatic backdrop. Authors including Joanne Harris, Laura Purcell, and Jess Kidd will celebrate the town's deep roots in gothic storytelling.

The coast itself will take a starring role throughout the festival. Historian Alistair Moffat will present his pilgrimage of the North Sea, while Sally Coulthard will share a Brief History of the Coast in 100 Objects. Metal detectorists Eleanor Bruce and Lucilla Gray will reveal their finds, and Dominic Gregory will bring his memoir, Lifeboat at the End of the World.

Local heritage will feature heavily, with sculptor Emma Stothard and writer Tim Kelly discussing the Wirefolk of Whitby sculpture trail. Channel 4’s Steam Train Diaries star Paul ‘Piglet’ Middleton will also make an appearance.

Families can expect a special event with Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae, showcasing winners of the children’s writing competition run in partnership with the National Literacy Trust. Geologist Roger Osborne and dinosaur-artist James McKay will explore Yorkshire’s Amazing Dinosaur Coast.

Theatre performances will include a production from The Hull to Scarborough Line theatre company. Scarborough’s Stephen Joseph Theatre playwright Robert Shearman will feature in a spotlight event curated by honorary patron Sir Alan Ayckbourn.

Chair of Whitby Lit Fest, Lois Kirtlan, said:

"Following the huge success of our inaugural Lit Fest last year, I’m delighted that the team has once again pulled together such a fabulous and diverse line-up for this year’s festival. We’re also incredibly proud to have been awarded charitable status, which gives Whitby Lit Fest a strong foundation for the future."

Lois Kirtlan added:

"We want the festival to continue to become an important part of Whitby’s cultural calendar for many years to come. We’re encouraging local businesses and individuals to get behind us and help make that possible. There are a range of sponsorship opportunities available, and donations can also be made through our website. Every contribution, large or small, will help us build on the success of the festival and secure its future."

Organisers will release the full programme and tickets on the festival website on the 31st of August.