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The Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival is an immersive and busy experience; with events on the hour, nearly every hour and book signings in between there’s a lot going on.
All of our main events, unless otherwise stated, will take place on the Theakston Stage in the main event tent at the Old Swan Hotel, where seating is unreserved. You may need to queue to enter events, but rest assured, the quick turnaround time between sessions will ensure that queues move efficiently. After each event, the authors will be escorted to the bookshop for signings.
Whether you’re attending a single event or the entire weekend, exploring the bookshop, chatting with authors at the bar, or discovering the books and events everyone is talking about – this is a weekend you won’t want to miss! (previously: Whether you’re coming for one event or for the whole lot, to explore the bookshop, say hi to authors at the bar or see what books and events people are talking about – this is the weekend not to be missed!)
Still have some questions? Below you’ll find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
General Information
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Panel events – typically involves a group of authors who gather to discuss a theme in crime writing.
Special guests – a prominent figure from the world of crime fiction is interviewed by a fellow author or invited interviewer.
In Conversation – spend an hour in the company of two contemporary crime fiction authors.
Author Dinner – this is a unique opportunity to get to know your favourite authors in a relaxed dinner environment. Tickets include a two course meal, a glass of wine and a copy of your table host’s book.
Creative Thursday – a day of writing workshops, panel discussions and pitching sessions which no aspiring crime writer will want to miss. Creative Thursday is immersive and unique, and is designed to give you the best chance of getting that publishing deal you dream of.
Publisher and Festival Partner events – these run alongside the main programme each year. Many of these events are free but do require a ticket to be booked to reserve your space.
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All Special Guest and Panel events are 60 minutes long, unless otherwise noted. Our Author Dinner events typically last 2 hours. The duration of Publisher and Festival Partner events may vary, so please check with our Box Office team for details.
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Thursday – Box Office opens at 3pm (Creative Thursday attendees will be sent separate instructions). The first event of the weekend is the Award Ceremony which begins at 8.00pm and is followed by an after party (approx. 9.15pm)
Friday – Box Office opens at 8.15am. The day begins at 9.00am with the last event due to finish around 11.00pm.
Saturday – Box Office opens at 8.15am. The day begins at 9.00am with the last event (Quiz Night) due to finish around 11.45pm.
Sunday – Box Office opens at 8.15am. There will be 3 events from the main programme starting from 9.00am with the last event finishing around 1.00pm.
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There is no dress code at any of our events, but we recommend dressing for the weather! The Old Swan Hotel can get quite warm during the summer months so please ensure you are wearing sensible footwear and dress appropriately.
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Our Crime Community are very active on social media platforms:
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/HarrogateInternationalFestivals/
Facebook Community Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1339855344023400
X – https://x.com/HarrogateFest
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harrogatefestivals/
Threads – https://www.threads.net/@harrogatefestivals
Bluesky – https://bsky.app/profile/harrogatefestivals.bsky.social
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Discover the Code of Conduct for the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival here.
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Harrogate International Festivals has an Access Scheme designed to ensure we are able to better serve our audience members who have specific access requirements.
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Please check at the Box Office for any lost property. Any personal items left in the Main Event tent will be removed and taken to the Box Office. After the Festival has finished, uncollected lost property will be handed to the Old Swan Hotel reception.
Tickets and Packages
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We have a number of ticket options available, from spending the whole weekend with us to choosing just to catch your favourite author.
Weekend Break Packages – includes 3 nights accommodation (with breakfast); access to all events on the Theakston Stage; priority booking for additional events, including the Author Dinner, Publisher and Festival Partner events and a goody bag.
Rover Tickets – a guaranteed seat to all events on the Theakston Stage on the day(s) of your choosing. Friday, Saturday and Weekend Rover tickets are available. Also includes access to our bars, signing room and book shops, as well as a goody bag.
Individual Event Tickets – purchase tickets just for the authors of your choice, whilst still being able to soak in the Festival atmosphere, pop along to a book signing and enjoy a pint of Theakston Old Peculier at the bar.
Site Passes – grants you access to the Festival grounds at The Old Swan Hotel, including the bookshop and the bar. Please note: Site passes do not give you access to any events on the Theakston Stage (main tent).
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All Weekend Break Packages include either a Classic or Essential Weekend Rover Ticket, which entitles you entry into the Awards & Party, all our Special Guest/ In Conversation and Panel events.
There’s a few events that your Weekend Break Package won’t cover, which can be booked separately:
- Creative Thursday
- Author Dinners on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 July
- Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers on Friday 18 July
- Publisher/ Festival Partner events which will be announced as we get closer to the Festival.
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Festival tickets can be collected at the on-site Box Office from Thursday 17 July from 3pm. The Box Office is open from 8.30am on Friday 18, Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 July.
Those attending Creative Thursday will be sent an email with ticket collection instructions nearer to the Festival.
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Tickets will be available to purchase from the Festival Box Office at the Old Swan Hotel from Thursday 17 – Sunday 20 July, subject to availability. As many of our events sell out before the Festival, we cannot guarantee that tickets will be available to purchase on the day. Early booking is recommended.
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The Box Office cannot refund money or exchange tickets, except in the case of a cancelled performance. We are happy to try to re-sell returned tickets for sold-out performances for a small charge.
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If you wish to attend a specific sold-out event, we will run a waiting list until Wednesday 16 July which you can join should any tickets for that event become available for re-sale. Please contact the Box Office on 01423 562 303 to join.
From Thursday 17 July there will only be an onsite waiting list which will open 10 minutes prior to the start of each event as we will be able to assess availability. Any onsite waiting list will supersede any previous waiting list.
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Yes, you will be required to a show a ticket for each event to have a booked signed. Due to high demand, there is a limit of 3 books per person. If you do not hold a ticket for the event, you will be able to join the back of the book-signing queue once all ticket-holders have gone through, but we cannot guarantee that the author will have time to see you.
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Seating for all events is unreserved. Doors will open approximately 15 minutes before each event. We kindly ask that queue etiquette is observed prior to each event.
As many events will be sold out, we ask you to help us accommodate all ticket holders by making use of every seat in the auditorium and not leaving gaps.
Please note our Friends of the Festival get priority access to the events upon showing their Friends of the Festival membership card.
Find out more about Friends of the Festival here.
Arriving and Getting Around
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The Old Swan Hotel is located on Old Swan Road, Harrogate. For those using SatNav, just enter the postcode HG1 2SR. See the bottom of the page for a Google Map.
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Our Box Office will be in a tent just outside the front of the Old Swan Hotel.
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If you are using Sat Nav you can use the postcodes below or click on the name of each car park for more information including opening and closing times.
The Old Swan Hotel – HG1 2SR (Drop off only)
Please note that there will be no parking available at the Old Swan Hotel.
For guests staying at the Old Swan Hotel, we recommend using the above car parks, or there is on street parking around the hotel (York Road, Duchy Road). You will need a parking disc and the restrictions are from 8.00am to 8.00pm. You can park there to unload the car, drop your bags at the hotel and then go and park your car in the long stay car parks – restrictions are usually 3 hours.
If you do not have a parking disc, there will be some available to collect at our Festival Box Office.
Please remember to check the closing times of your car park and any on street parking signage as Harrogate International Festivals takes no responsibility for any additional fees incurred.
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You don’t need to pick up your welcome pack from the Box Office at the Old Swan Hotel before checking in at your hotel; all you need is your name. However, if you have any concerns, then you can show the Hotel staff your confirmation email which you should have received at the time of booking.You will also receive a welcome email a couple of weeks prior to the Festival reconfirming all your accommodation details.
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More accessibility information hereThe Old Swan Hotel is fully wheelchair accessible. Please call the Festival Office on 01423 562 303 before Monday 7 July to discuss your additional access needs.
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More accessibility information here
Please call our Festival Box Office to discuss your access needs before Monday 7 July.
We are committed to ensuring all customers can enjoy our events equally. To better serve our patrons who have specific access needs we have our Access Scheme. The list is free to join and once you qualify as a member you may be entitled to a complimentary ticket (excluding food) for a Personal Assistant/Carer. Please be advised that we cannot offer retrospective discounts on tickets already purchased.
Events and Activities
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All main programme events are held on the Theakston Stage at the Old Swan Hotel, except for the Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers or any Publisher and Festival partner events.
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We kindly ask that you leave the Theakston stage area promptly when the event is finished to allow us to set the room for the following event.
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Both of the Author Dinners will take place in the Wedgwood Restaurant at the Old Swan Hotel from 6.15pm onwards.
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Yes! Waterstones are kindly providing a Festival bookstore at the Old Swan Hotel and they will host book signings after each event. The bookshop will be located in the Garden Room, and signings will take place in the Red Lounge adjacent to the Ballroom.
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Please feel free to take pictures but ensure that your photography does not interfere with the experience or enjoyment of fellow audience members.To maintain a respectful environment, we kindly request that you avoid using flash or disruptive equipment during presentations. If you wish to take photos during an event please do so discreetly and from your seat.
Dining and Facilities
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Lunches are included in with Classic Weekend, Friday and Saturday Rover tickets. Lunch will be served in the Wedgwood Restaurant from 12.00pm-2.00pm on Friday 18 July and Saturday 19 July. Please be advised queues are expected so we recommend attending lunch early if you are able.If you hold a Rover pass, you can also pick up a quick lunch from our on-site Tuck Shop or BBQ, included in your ticket.
Lunch is not included for Essential Rover passes. You can purchase lunch and refreshments on-site from our BBQ or our Tuck Shop.
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Yes! Harrogate International Festivals take both card and cash payments at the Box Office. The Old Swan Hotel only takes card payment.
Additional Opportunities
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The Jane Gregory bursaries were created to ensure the widest possible access to the annual Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival and to develop opportunities for readers and writers of all backgrounds. Focused on the Creative Thursday writing day, which has helped launch successful writers in the genre, these bursaries aim to support aspiring writers.
Each year, four bursaries are offered, including: one full Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival weekend access with accommodation and a travel allowance; one Creative Thursday ticket and one Classic Weekend Rover, which includes a contribution to accommodation; and two tickets to attend Creative Thursday.
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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. As a charitable arts organisation, we rely on the generous support of our Friends of the Festival to create the quality and range of work we do. Not only can you support Harrogate International Festivals year-round, but each level of membership unlocks more perks! You can find out more about our Festival Friends and the benefits of membership here.
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The Festival Friends’ lounge is located in the Ballroom (exact location may change) at the Old Swan Hotel, with a screen and a live link through to all Special Guest, In Conversation and Panel events. Valid tickets and membership cards must be shown in order to access the lounge.
Friends also have priority entrance to the Theakston Old Peculier Stage (before the crowd) and have priority booking up to a week ahead of tickets going on general sale
How to Crack the #TheakstonsCrime Code
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New to the Festival or want a refresher, or just want to meet some people?
This is a relaxed welcome session to give you the rundown on what’s going on over the weekend. Whether it’s your first time at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, or you’ve been before and want to meet new people, this is a great place to begin…
We’ll give you a quick rundown of what’s happening: how the site works, what’s on the main stage, side events like author dinners and the Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers, plus what the publishers are up to. We’ll also share some handy tips – where to grab food, find a quiet corner, get your books signed, or just soak it all in.
This event is free, but please book a ticket – it really helps us keep an eye on numbers and make sure we allow enough time and space for everyone. If you have not booked but wish to attend, come and see if there is space for you on the day.
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Feeling a bit shy? On your own? Just fancy a chat with someone new? We’ve got you covered.
Around the Festival site, you’ll find our Friendly Tables – welcoming spots where you can sit down, say hello and get chatting with other Festival-goers. Whether you’re a first-timer or a long-time fan, this is your space to connect.
You’ll usually find a mix of Festival volunteers, seasoned attendees, and sometimes even a few authors joining in – all happy to have a natter, share tips or just talk books over a cuppa. No booking, no fuss – just pull up a seat and say “Hi”.
We’ll have Friendly Tables in the restaurant at lunchtime me for Classic Rover ticket holders, and another spot in the main bar tent, open to everyone.
We’re a welcoming crowd, and this is one of the easiest ways to meet new people, swap recommendations, or just enjoy the Festival with good company.
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The go-to group for all 2025 #TheakstonsCrime Festival goers.Thursday 17 July to Sunday 20 July 2025 – it would be a crime to miss it!Please note that this group is only monitored between Monday and Friday, 9am- 5pm.Members must adhere to the rules they agreed to when they joined. Anyone who does not follow these rules will be asked to leave the group. Please contact [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
Top Tips from Festival Goers & Insiders
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- Events on the Theakston’s Stage open 15-20 minutes before the start time.
- Friends of the Festival get priority entry ahead of the crowd.
- Each event lasts 1 hour. After each event we ask you to leave so we can reset the room – time to grab a drink or head to the bookshop.
- Got a book to get signed? Head to the Signing Room right after the event.
- Repeat as often as necessary – it’s the Festival way!
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- Make your wishlist! When site, mark what you want to see.
- Some events may not appear in the programme – these are usually private industry events. If unsure, just ask us!
- There’s more than the main stage – check out the Reacher Room, Dead Giveaways tent, HQ tables and more.
- Pop-up events? Always free and always worth a look. Full listing will be available on site.
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- Refill your bottle at our water stations (they’re dotted around the site).
- Bring snacks or grab something from the food stalls or tuck shop.
- Use the facilities. Don’t wait until you’re desperate – this isn’t a crime scene.
- Leave time to eat, rest and soak it all in – you’re here to enjoy!
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- Yorkshire is known for four seasons in one day.
- Bring layers, a brolly, and yes – sunscreen!
- We have covered spaces, but come prepared as you’ll be outside as you move around the site.
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- Authors are friendly – if you see one standing alone, say hi!
- The Drinking Detective bar is a brilliant place to make Festival friends.
- Find a deckchair (or a giant green chair), settle in, and people-watch with a good book.
- Need quiet? Visit The Secret Garden (No. 7 on the map), it’s the perfect chillout zone.
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It’s okay to miss an event. There’s always something happening, but also time to breathe. Check out our Team’s favourite places to go unwind further down.
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Have a brilliant time. Make it your Festival – enjoy it your way!
Take a Break… Step into Harrogate!
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Bettys Tea Room & Shop | HG1 2QU
A Harrogate institution since 1919. Afternoon tea, rich patisserie, warm welcomes – need we say more? -
Valley Gardens | HG1 2SZ
Right on our doorstep – just a 2-minute walk from the Festival site. Visit the Japanese Garden, pass by the boating pond, or simply wander and grab an ice cream. -
- The Place at the Crown Hotel | HG1 2RZ
This relaxed brasserie is a Festival favourite. Great for a chilled drink or a sneaky bite between panels.
Receive 20% off when you show your Festival pass. - The Barking George at the Harrogate Inn | HG1 2SY
A modern pub with charm. Great food, lovely atmosphere – perfect for lunch, dinner or an early evening pint. - The Fat Badger | HG2 0NF
Well-established and warmly atmospheric, this pub offers hearty fare in a classic-meets-contemporary setting.
- The Place at the Crown Hotel | HG1 2RZ
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- Number 35 | HG1 1DH
A cosy and loved little café. A favourite for specialty coffee and an even better vibe.
- Hoxton North | HG1 2SZ
This slick coffee bar also serves up brilliant brunch and snacks.
- Starling | HG1 1PW
Coffee, cake and even pizza if you can’t decide! What’s not to like!
- Number 35 | HG1 1DH
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- Mercer Art Gallery (Free Entry) | HG1 2SA
Literally around the corner. Harrogate’s top art venue, currently home to Liz West – H.A.P.P.Y: a dazzling mix of light and colour. Open ‘til 5pm. - Royal Pump Room Museum (admission from £3.20 to £4.20) | HG1 2RY
Step into Harrogate’s spa-town past. Russian royals, literary legends and local secrets await.
- Mercer Art Gallery (Free Entry) | HG1 2SA
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Morrisons Daily is just 2 minutes away, walk straight ahead as you leave the Festival and it is just opposite the Royal Pump Room Museum – perfect for a quick top-up.
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Weekend Break Packages
Experience every thrilling moment with our exclusive Weekend Break packages.
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Crime Ticket Information
The Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival returns to the Old Swan Hotel on Thursday 23 to Sunday 26 July 2026
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