Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival

23 - 26 July 2026

The heart of the crime fiction community

For one long, sultry, summer weekend the temperature in Harrogate rises whatever the weather as the world’s hottest celebration of crime writing swings into town. Once tasted, the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival leaves you on the edge of your seat, waiting for the next exciting chapter.

More about the Festival

About the Festival

The world’s longest-running and most prestigious celebration of crime writing, the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival is the epicentre of the crime fiction community.

From bestselling authors to emerging voices, the Festival is dedicated to nurturing fresh talent, providing a platform for new writers to shine. It’s where the biggest news in crime fiction breaks, offering readers the chance to get the scoop on new writers before anyone else.

Proud of its Yorkshire roots, the Festival is a place of connection, inspiration, and discovery, where readers can hang out with their heroes, get an exclusive insight into the Next Big Thing and rub shoulders with the UK’s leading agents, editors and publishers, as well as with fellow crime fiction fans who share a passion for the genre.

Grab a pint of Yorkshire’s finest ale and join in the drama at Agatha Christie’s old haunt, the Old Swan Hotel, for a celebration of the genre unlike any other. It would be a murderous misdemeanour to miss it!

The Hay-on-Wye of the Crime world
The Times
An audience member enjoying the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival.

Ticket Information

We have a variety of ticket options, from spending the whole weekend with us to just catching your favourite author

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Weekend Break Packages

Experience every thrilling moment with our exclusive Weekend Break packages

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Jo Callaghan wins the coveted Theakston old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year Award.

Awards

Everything you need to know about the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival and our Awards

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Get the most out of your Festival – Become a Friend!

Becoming a Friend of the Festivals is one of the best ways to enjoy all that the Harrogate International Festivals have to offer, from big name stars, to intimate concerts and hidden gems.

Festival Friends memberships
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