A popular annual event in the Isle of Wight calendar, the Isle of Wight Literary Festival will be held between the 8th - 11th October 2026 at Northwood House, Cowes. The festival will once again be providing a varied and exciting programme with something for everyone.
History, politics, current affairs, environmental matters and law are among the topics featured at this year's Festival.
Top literary names from television, politics, history and the world of food and drink are among headline authors who will be appearing at this year’s Isle of Wight Literary Festival.
Our 2026 speaker programme will explore a wide array of themes, including history, politics, personal narratives, crime, and more.
Returning by popular demand, the Litfeast—a much-loved feature introduced in 2023 —will be back for 2026. This year’s event will once again feature cookery demonstrations by both beloved local chefs and acclaimed culinary figures, including renowned chefs and food writers, alongside a curated wine tasting experience.
LINE-UP 2026
Clare Balding – Broadcaster and Author
Amanda Barrie – Actress and Author
Ann Cleeves – Crime Novelist
Iain Dale – Political Broadcaster and Author
Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall – Chef, Broadcaster and Food Campaigner
Robert Hardman – Journalist, Broadcaster and Royal Biographer
Penny Junor – Royal Biographer and Journalist
Sophie Raworth – Journalist and Broadcaster
Clive Tyldesley – Football Commentator and Broadcaster
Dr Alison Weir – Historian and Author
We are experiencing an unprecedented demand for bookings at the current time.
When booking rooms online, please be advised that if our Dinner, Bed and Breakfast or Ferry Inclusive Packages are not available, our restaurant is fully booked for your chosen dates.
