14 Oct 2012
Isle of Wight Literary Festival
Some of the Literary Festival speakers
The Isle of Wight is already well known for its music festivals, but this year sees the inaugural Literary Festival. Taking place this October in Cowes, the 3 day programme is full to the brim with literary talent from across the country.
A host of stars are appearing in debates, talks, workshops and even children’s storytelling events, so whatever your age and interests, there should be something to catch your imagination. One of the highlights of the festival is the bus tour of the Island, which will be hosted by one of the celebrity guest speakers.
Confirmed speakers include the sharp-witted wordsmith Gyles Brandreth, much-loved actress Celia Imrie and explorer Robin Hanbury-Tenison, who speaks as he writes; beautifully and evocatively.
The Festival is centred around the Grade II listed Northwood House, which enjoys a prime position above Cowes and is set in a beautiful, 26-acre park. The profits from the Festival will be donated to provide much-needed repairs to this historic building.
Given the current economic climate, many of those visiting the festival will be taking advantage of the vast array of self catering holidays, B&Bs and hotels on offer on the Island. The flexibility of accommodation at this time of year is ideal for festival-goers.
Self catering holidays are particularly appealing for families or those on a budget, as the kids’ meal time routines can be maintained and overall food costs can be kept at a reasonable level.
The festival clearly has heartfelt support from the writers and speakers involved. It is hoped that it will prove such a success that it will become a firm favourite amidst the island’s annual festival line up.
Barney Barnes