Stratford’s spring festival runs 6–9 May 2027, with spring tickets released in February. It is separate from the completed autumn 2026 edition. The six completed events below come from the earlier 2026 programme. Choose your spring conversations from the new official programme and keep the editions’ dates distinct when arranging a room.
Confirmed for 2027
The 2027 programme hasn’t been announced yet.
2026 headline events
These events took place in 2026.
Vermeer in a New Light
· Crowne Plaza Hotel
Andrew Graham-Dixon explored Vermeer’s paintings through fresh discoveries about his friendships, beliefs and the meaning of his work.
The Rolling Year: Listening to the Seasons with Vivaldi
· Crowne Plaza Hotel
Hannah French revisited Vivaldi’s Four Seasons through its imagery and poetry, linking the music with human experiences of nature.
Surround Sound -The Stories of Movie Music
· Crowne Plaza Hotel
Mark Kermode and Jenny Nelson explored film soundtracks and the relationship between a director’s vision and a composer’s music.
Star Kitties
· Crowne Plaza Hotel
Laura Ellen Anderson introduced Star Kitties through magical world-building, character creation and a drawing activity inspired by Tabitha’s feline friends.
A More Perfect Union - Our Relationship with Europe after Brexit
· Crowne Plaza Hotel
Marina Wheeler argued for closer relations between Britain and Europe in response to changing global politics and threats to democracy.
The Cost of Trust: The Ian Paterson Scandal
· Crowne Plaza Hotel
Deborah Douglas and Tracy King discussed their campaign against surgeon Ian Paterson and the failures of medical oversight.
Explore the guide’s 2026 programme highlights.
Book your room first
Choosing the town and dates can come before choosing individual talks. If you reserve at that stage, compare the actual rate’s payment and cancellation conditions and keep its deadline with your festival plans. The search starts with the first festival night, two adults and one room; change it to fit your stay.
Where to stay for Stratford Literary Festival · Stratford Literary Festival visitor guide
Authors who appeared in 2026
Patrick Gale, Antony Beevor, Tim Spector, Prue Leith, Richard Coles, Philippa Perry.
Plan the festival visit
Keep the spring visit separate from the autumn edition when comparing rooms and trains. Bridge Foot, Waterside and the station side offer different bases, while a separate theatre or heritage booking needs its own place in the timetable. Confirm each venue before choosing an accommodation address. If your companion wants another session, agree how you will meet and return. The guide covers the festival practicalities and the stay page compares the room choices, with spring searches clearly separated from the still-upcoming autumn visit.