Last year, Folkestone made history – electing Tony Vaughan as its first-ever Labour MP after more than 70 years of Conservative rule. But earlier this year, Kent (along with many other parts of the country) swung hard to Reform. What happened? Where did the energy go? And is Keir Starmer’s Labour already losing touch with the people who gave it a chance?
With Reform gaining traction, trust in politics at rock bottom, and voters in Kent demanding more than cautious promises, the big question is: can Labour hold on – or will its hunger to govern cost it its soul? Expect gripping revelations, sharp analysis, and the inside story of a political moment that’s still unfolding – right here, right now, on our doorstep.
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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, bold ideas and the power of storytelling – by the sea. Curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s programme features more than 50 events over 11 days, bringing together world-class writers, radical thinkers and unforgettable conversations – all inspired by Folkestone’s spirit of enabling creativity and transformative change.
And if you’re planning to come to more than a handful of events, don’t miss our great-value Festival Pass, which gives you access to all events (excluding classes, which need to be booked separately) for just £140.
There’s so much to discover – from headline talks to intimate workshops, big ideas to local voices. Check out the full programme, including our much-loved Local Talent Showcase and a new series of Creative Writing Workshops designed to spark your imagination.
We delighted that our onsite bookseller this year is Waterstones Folkestone.
We thank our major sponsor Saga and supporting sponsors Eurotunnel, Holiday Extras and Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival along with our Education Partner, Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year’s festival possible. Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.