I went to the Glastonbury of book festivals where you rub shoulders with TV celebs – and it has free booze
AS I watched the friendly bartender pour my pint, I couldn’t help but feel a little big smug – and that’s because my drink was courtesy of Richard Osman.
Each year at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, the Thursday Murder Club author puts his bank card behind the bar and treats festival-goers to a tipple.
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While the card is password protected, the secret code word somehow spreads around the grounds like wildfire, so you’ll have to be quick if you want a drink on Richard.
Taking place every July, the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, which has been affectionately nicknamed Harrogate crime writing festival, completely dominates the picturesque Yorkshire town – and I don’t think anyone would have it any other way.
It’s said to be the world’s largest crime writing festival and has even been dubbed “The Glastonbury of crime” by the Harrogate Advertiser.
As someone who’s been going to the festival for the last three years, I personally think it should be called the Glastonbury of book festivals.
The Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate is the festival’s backdrop, and it couldn’t be more fitting thanks to its ties to Agatha Christie who disappeared to the hotel in the 1920s.
Even though the festival welcomes household names like Richard Osman, Louise Minchin, Ruth Ware, Mark Billingham and Elly Griffiths, it’s readers who are at its heart.
Over its four days, readers can approach their favourite authors at any time while on the festival site, almost eliminating any sense of celebrity status and any stuffiness.
For example, TV presenters like Louise Minchin and Steph McGovern, who revealed the title of her debut novel Deadline, were happy to speak to punters, sign autographs and pose for photos.
The conversations go beyond ice-breaker chit chat too, with many authors spending time getting to know their readers and thanking them for their support.
It’s the intermingling between authors and readers that I find most reminiscent about Glastonbury.
The festival’s friendly atmosphere means fans also feel comfortable attending events on their own.
It’s also a great place for couples and groups of friends who love to read, but I personally attend the event with my mum.
There aren’t many festivals where I’d feel comfortable attending with my mum but the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival is one of them.
There are plenty of other perks too, with publishers dishing out brand-new copies of books – although you’ll have to be in like flynn if you want to grab one.
This year, I was lucky enough to nab a free glass of prosecco, or two, when Steph McGovern announced the launch of her first book, Deadline.
Events take place at the huge 700-seater marquee where authors are interviewed about their work and livelihoods.
Each of the talks lasts for one hour, with book signings taking place inside the hotel shortly after.
The talks run pretty much back-to-back, which means anyone who’s at the festival for a full day will have to pick and choose the events they attend – or risking burning out.
Festival-goers can grab a drink and unwind under a marquee that has its own bar and tea and coffee station.
Other rest areas include the smattering of deckchairs and beanbags that are strewn across the lawn.
For something a little more comfortable, try and grab a seat inside the hotel bar where you’ll find sofas and armchairs.
Ever since I routinely started attending the festival three years ago, it seems to have multiplied in size, with other marquees, publisher events and breakout areas popping up across the weekend.
Despite the programme expanding, festival highlights will always include the New Blood panel, which shines a light on debut authors, and the Saturday night quiz.
It’s a lot to fit into one weekend, which is why visitors need to be mindful about what they want to do rather than go to every event.
One person who has been going to the festival for 18 years gave me a piece of advice, she said: “Enjoy it and think carefully about you want to see and don’t overpack your programme.”
It’s safe to say, I enjoyed my weekend at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, and I’m already excited for next year.
Next year, the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival will be taking place from July 17 to July 20, with further details set to be announced soon.
Best staycation locations for 2024
1. Bristol
The arty harbour city was the top spot on the list and is bursting with culture and trendy cafes scattered along the River Avon.
A bubbling hub for creatives, Bristol is the birthplace of street artist Banksy, and you can admire some of his best early works on a free walking tour.
2. Hull
The Humberside port city started to get recognition last year, and it has a thriving nightlife scene – if that’s something you’re after.
The old town is crawling with history and classy buildings, whose walls have many stories to tell and The Deep is a fascinating aquarium attraction.
3. Isles of Scilly
Just off the Cornish coast, it’s easy to see why the archipelago made it into the top three.
Here, you can expect golden sandy beaches where you will be able to spot dolphins beyond the shoreline, as well as seafront pubs serving up hearty grub.
Meanwhile, this is the best value city break for people to head to in 2024.
And this underrated city break destination has 120 music festivals every year.