The Times Cheltenham Literary Festival 2014

“Literature is one of the most interesting and significant expressions of humanity.”  Whether your literary interests are for curiosities of P.T. Barnum or the classics of Shakespeare, The Times Cheltenham Literary Festival is an oasis for all.

Shami Chakrabarti, Amit Chaudhur and Sophie Hannah are amongst the Guest Directors of the festival, which runs from 3rd October till 12th.  The Satanic Verses author, Salman Rushdie, and Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid’s Tale, will be attending as will David Mitchell who, just ahead of the Festival, will be releasing his new book The Bone Clocks; let’s hope this leads to another hit film!

Ian Rankin will be presenting his short story collection featuring Inspector Rebus and John Boyne, author of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, will be a guest on one of the many discussion panels, as will Heston Blumenthal, Alan Titchmarsh, Nicholas Parsons and Helen McCrory amongst many others.  Family Guest Director Michael Rosen will be introducing Jacqueline Wilson, Malorie Blackman and Henry Winkler for our younger readers, along with the mini festival Book It!  With over 500 debates, interviews and workshops, this really is a must-see festival for bookworms everywhere.

According to George Sayer, C.S. Lewis’ auto biographer, the Malvern Hills were where J.R.R. Tolkien found inspiration for the White Mountains in his literary epics The Hobbit and The Fellowship of the Ring. According to Sayer, Tolkien would make recordings whilst taking long walks in the Hills accompanied by C.S. Lewis; so where better to base yourself than the Abbey Hotel.

You can explore the trails of these great authors with either self-guided tours written by local author Carl Steven Flint – you can pick a local guide at the Tourist Information Centre – or a guided tour led by the Malvern Civic Society guides.

Enjoy these beautiful tours and indulge yourself with our Body & Sole package.  This two-day offer includes accommodation, dinner on both nights (plus wine on the first night), full English breakfast and a Body & Sole package to help you unwind after your explorations.

For more information or to make a booking call us on 01684 879193.

We look forward to welcoming you.