In July, Harrogate will host one of the most prestigious events on the crime fiction calendar: the 2025 Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival.  Taking place between 17 and 20 July, the festival offers the opportunity for fans of crime fiction to engage with the authors they love, discover new authors and even try their hand at writing themselves.  

This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of guests.  Irvine Welsh will be making his festival debut, delving into Resolution, the final instalment of his 'Crime' trilogy, now adapted into a hit TV series starring Dougray Scott. 

Lee and Andrew Child, authors of the acclaimed Jack Reacher series will discuss their latest thriller, In Too Deep, and provide an exclusive preview of Exit Strategy, the 30th Reacher novel set for publication in November. 

Attica Locke will showcase her hard-hitting novel, Guide Me Home, offering a nuanced exploration of contemporary societal themes.  And Festival regular Val McDermid will be teaming up with TV presenter Steph McGovern, who will launch her debut novel, Deadline, at the event. 

Kate Atkinson fans will be thrilled to learn that she will be discussing her latest Jackson Brodie novel, At the Sign of the Rook, with Lee Child.  

Mark Billingham, Kate Mosse, and Paula Hawkins will also return to the festival, showcasing their latest bestsellers.   

In addition to talks, the festival also offers a wide range of other literary events, including Creative Thursday, during which aspiring writers can participate in a full day of creative writing workshops led by industry professionals, providing invaluable insights into the craft of crime writing. 

There will also be Panel Discussions in which contemporary issues in crime fiction are discussed. For those who love both reading and fine dining, the festival includes a number of Author Dinners, where your favourite authors discuss their work over dinner.  

Tickets for the various events do tend to sell out very quickly, so it is well worth booking early to avoid disappointment.  You can check out all the events, and book your tickets, here.

The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages are often busy during the Crime Writing Festival, which always attracts a lot of visitors to the town, so it’s definitely worthwhile booking your room with us as soon as you have purchased your tickets for the Festival events.   Booking direct with us will allow you to choose the room you prefer.  Whether you prefer the convenience of Bed and Breakfast or the flexibility of self-catering, here at The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, we have something for everyone.  

Attending the festival also presents the perfect opportunity to explore Harrogate, a town renowned for its elegant architecture, lush gardens, and rich history.  The festival venue, The Old Swan Hotel, is famously associated with Agatha Christie's mysterious disappearance in 1926 and is just a short walk from The Camberley.  

Following your Festival visit, why not stretch your legs in the nearby Valley Gardens, relax and unwind in the renowned Turkish Baths, or book afternoon tea at the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms, renowned for its delicious cakes and elegant setting?

Whatever you choose to do, The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages provide a comfortable base from which to explore.  Situated close to a range of restaurants and café-bars, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out, before returning to your comfortable room and a well-deserved rest after the excitement of the day.

Whether you're a devoted crime fiction aficionado or simply seeking a unique summer experience, staying at The Camberley,  The Lodge or Camberley Cottages in July offers the perfect setting for a relaxing break.