Dorchester Literary Festival 2018

Tuesday, October 16th, 2018

The Dorchester Literary Festival returns for its 4th year, bringing a whole host of exciting events, interviews and authors to our county town. The festival takes place on the 17th – 21st October. It’s perfect for avid readers with everything it has on offer.

The festival is set to host around 30 events. After every event, there’s an opportunity to meet the author, buy their book and get it signed at Waterstones in South Street. Ticket’s are available from the Dorchester TIC for around £10 for individual event passes. However, for the best value, a £5 discount is applied when booking 3 events or more.

Events

Roughly 30 events are taking place throughout the course of the festival. Here are some highlights to be on the lookout for:

Jeremy Vine: What I Learnt

Friday 19th October 8.00pm – Corn Exchange

Jeremy Vine, presenter of the award winning Jeremy Vine Show, has been presenting his BBC Radio 2 show since 2003. He has helped more than 25,000 callers since it started, covering many topics varying from life and love to lollipop ladies and poisonous plants. Come and listen to him talking about his memoir which is punctuated by vivid anecdotes, laugh-out-loud moments and tips learnt via Eggheads and Strictly Come Dancing.

Mark Austin: And Thank You For Watching – A Memoir

Friday 19th October, 2.00pm – Corn Exchange

Hear Mark Austin is to be interviewed by award-winning veteran broadcaster Kate Adie. He will talk about his 30 year journey covering the biggest stories in the world for ITN. Witnessing first-hand the most epic events of our times as a foreign correspondent and anchorman, listen to Mark Austin go into the finer details of his journalism journey.

Judy Murray: Knowing The Score – in conversation with Alexandra Heminsley

Wednesday 17th October 7.30pm – Thomas Hardye School Theatre

Mother to tennis world champions Andy and Jamie Murray, Judy Murray is making an appearance in conversation with Alexandria Heminsley. Ticket holders can expect to learn all about Judy’s fascinating life. Hear how she has revolutionised British tennis, worked her way to Centre Court at Wimbledon and conquered many other challenges she has faced.

A Walk Around Thomas Hardy’s Casterbridge

Sunday 21st October 9.30am – Town Pump, Cornhill (top of South Street)

Embark on a walk that takes you through all main sites in Dorchester associated with Hardy’s Life, his Novels and his Poetry. The leisurely stroll starts at Town Pump at Cornhill. It will be led by Alistair Chisholm, Town Crier and is aided by Tony Fincham from the Thomas Hardy Society.

The Walk Around Thomas Hardy’s Casterbridge is highly popular amongst locals and visitors alike. You’ll get to experience Dorchester like never before and learn more about the town’s rich history.

For a full list of events, please take a look at the festival’s official site.

Venues

There are 3 venues where the events take place; The Corn Exchange, Duke’s Galleries and The Thomas Hardye School.

The Dorchester Literary Festival 2018 is a fantastic opportunity to experience talks and interviews from many highly influential people. Hear their stories first hand and even get a signed copy of their book.