One of Britain’s most prestigious literary gatherings will return this autumn, as the Cliveden Literary Festival takes place at the historic Cliveden House from Saturday 10 to Sunday 11 October 2026. Now entering its ninth year, the festival has established itself as an important fixture in the cultural calendar, bringing together acclaimed authors, historians, journalists and political figures for two days of lively conversation, challenging ideas and spirited debate.

The setting is every bit as compelling as the programme. Cliveden House has long been associated with writers, politicians and some of the most influential thinkers in British history. Its rooms and gardens have welcomed figures including Alexander Pope, Jonathan Swift, Alfred Lord Tennyson, George Bernard Shaw and Sir Winston Churchill, giving the festival a natural connection to the literary salons of the past. That heritage continues through the festival’s organising committee, which includes authors and historians Andrew Roberts, Natalie Livingstone, Catherine Ostler and Simon Sebag Montefiore. Together, they have helped shape an event that combines intellectual weight with the intimacy and atmosphere of a country house gathering.

The festival’s reputation was further enhanced in 2025 when Her Majesty The Queen attended and described the event as “a perfection of a literary festival”. Last year’s programme featured an exceptional collection of writers and public figures, including Ian Rankin, Salman Rushdie, Richard E Grant, Douglas Murray, Jung Chang, Niall Ferguson, Hallie Rubenhold, Alain de Botton, Elif Shafak, Marlon James, Anthony Horowitz, Wes Streeting, William Boyd, Emily Maitlis, Michael Gove and Helen Castor.

Although the full 2026 programme has yet to be announced, the festival’s impressive history provides a strong indication of what visitors can expect. Previous speakers have included Zadie Smith, Emerald Fennell, Armando Iannucci, Simon Schama, Edward Enninful, Hanif Kureishi, Edmund de Waal, Amor Towles, Sebastian Faulks, Brian Cox, David Baddiel, Tina Brown, Peter Frankopan, David Olusoga, Antonia Fraser and Lionel Shriver.

Beyond the talks and discussions, the festival offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of England’s most celebrated country estates. The surrounding National Trust gardens provide a striking backdrop for an autumn weekend, with scenic walks leading through the estate and down towards the River Thames.

Cliveden House itself is now a five-star luxury hotel operated by Iconic Luxury Hotels and is a member of Relais & Châteaux. Located less than 45 minutes from London and approximately 20 minutes from Heathrow, the property combines historic grandeur with contemporary hospitality.

The hotel features 47 rooms and suites within the main house, alongside Spring Cottage, a private summerhouse situated on the banks of the Thames. Guests can also enjoy a luxurious spa, a fully stocked boathouse and a choice of restaurants, including the elegant Cliveden Dining Room and the more relaxed Astor Grill. The estate’s history stretches back more than 350 years. The house was originally built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham as a gift for his mistress and has remained closely connected with pleasure, politics, glamour and intrigue ever since. Its architecture, interiors and remarkable position above the Thames continue to make it one of Britain’s most distinctive country house destinations.

Tickets for the 2026 Cliveden Literary Festival are expected to go on sale in late July. Those hoping to attend are encouraged to join the festival newsletter or follow Cliveden Literary Festival on social media for programme announcements and ticket information.

For lovers of literature, history and intelligent conversation, few events offer such an impressive combination of setting and substance. With world-class speakers, beautiful gardens and the unmistakable atmosphere of Cliveden House, the festival promises to be one of the standout cultural weekends of the autumn.