Hay Festival 2023

How do you get to the heart of the story you’re trying to tell? Experienced author Emma Jane Unsworth shares insights on structure, style and voice, with hands-on writing exercises to help you find your story.

Unsworth is an award-winning novelist and screenwriter, author of Animals, Adults and, most recently, Slags). Animals was adapted into a film, for which Unsworth wrote the screenplay.

Arvon is the UK’s leading creative writing charity. Founded in 1968, it is known for its diverse creative writing courses and events led by leading authors. An online programme, ‘Arvon at Home’ offers virtual writing weeks, writing days, masterclasses and readings. Residential five-day courses are set in historic writing houses in inspiring countryside locations. Courses cover a range of genres including fiction, poetry, theatre, YA, creative non-fiction and more.

Henry Normal presents the 12th instalment of his acclaimed BBC Radio 4 series. He tackles subjects so big only radio can contain them.

Henry is an award-winning writer, producer and poet. He co-wrote TV programmes including The Royle Family, The Mrs Merton Show and Paul Calf, and produced the Oscar-nominated Philomena, Gavin and Stacey and Alan Partridge.

How are we different from other animals? Is there such a thing as a soul? Just two of the unanswerable questions he’ll be unanswering once and for all.

Join our celebrated pizzaioli for an entertaining, hands-on workshop that will teach you everything that you knead to know about how to make pizzas. Since nothing complements pizza quite like a perfect glass of wine, let us pair and enjoy Italian wine together with your pizza creations.

This 90-minute session includes snacks, a 12” pizza of your own creation and complementary wine throughout. Dairy-free and gluten-free options available.

Helen Castor and Dan Jones, both broadcasters and historians, discuss the Crown of England from Richard II to Henry V.

Castor’s The Eagle and the Hart tells the story of the power struggle between cousins Richard of Bordeaux and Henry Bolingbroke, one a thin-skinned narcissist, the other a chivalric hero and leader. As king, Richard II became consumed by the need for total power. When he banished Henry into exile, the stage was set for a final confrontation.

Jones offers a new perspective on the life of Henry V, who reigned over England for only nine years but who looms large over the late Middle Ages and beyond. As king, Henry saved a shattered country from economic ruin, put down rebellions and secured England’s borders, but he sowed the seeds for three generations of calamity in the form of the Wars of the Roses.

Join author Janice Hadlow (The Other Bennet Sister), screenwriter Sarah Quintrell (The Power) and executive producer and Bad Wolf co-founder Jane Tranter (His Dark Materials) as they discuss the challenges of adapting and reinterpreting Austen for modern audiences, in her 250th birthday year.

Following the announcement that Bad Wolf will adapt Janice Hadlow’s best-selling novel The Other Bennet Sister for the BBC, the trio will discuss their approach to reinterpreting Mary Bennet, the seemingly unremarkable and overlooked middle sister in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Described as a “fresh spin around the ballroom for one of Jane Austen’s most unassuming characters”, the ten-part drama is written by Sarah Quintrell and gives Mary Bennet the epic love story nobody predicted for her. They talk to author and comedian, Rachel Parris.

The Booker-shortlisted author (Do Not Say We Have Nothing) shares her profound and adventurous new novel. The Book of Records questions how collective political moments can determine an individual’s future, and revels in the infinite joys of intellectual endeavour.

Lina and her ailing father have had to flee their home, and have taken refuge in a mysterious building known as the Sea, that dominates a staging-post for migrating people. With only a few possessions, including three volumes from the Great Voyagers encyclopaedia series, they find some rooms and wait for the rest of their family.

While they wait, Lina befriends her unusual neighbours – who resemble the radical 17th-century Dutch scholar Baruch Spinoza, the philosopher Hannah Arendt and the Chinese poet Du Fu – while her father struggles with the concept of leaving this supposed temporary home. As his health worsens, he finally recounts how he and Lina came to reside in the Sea, and what his betrayals cost their family and others.

Acclaimed filmmaker Joachim Trier (Oslo, August 31st, Louder Than Bombs)’s The Worst Person in the World is a wistful and subversive romantic drama about the quest for love and meaning. Set in contemporary Oslo, it features a star-making lead performance from Renate Reinsve as a young woman who, on the verge of turning thirty, navigates multiple love affairs, existential uncertainty and career dissatisfaction as she slowly starts deciding what she wants to do, who she wants to be, and ultimately who she wants to become.

As much a formally playful character study as it is a poignant and perceptive observation of quarter-life angst, this life-affirming coming of age story deservedly won Reinsve the Best Actress award at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival. The film was nominated for two Academy Awards (Original Screenplay and International Feature Film), and two BAFTA awards (Leading Actress and Film Not in the English Language).

“Sublime… An instant classic” – The Guardian

Raynor Winn’s The Salt Path was published in 2018 by Penguin Michael Joseph to universal acclaim. Now adapted for a major film starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs, the story is set to hit our screens on the 30th May. In this unmissable event with the award-winning author and the film’s director Marianne Elliott and producer Elizabeth Karlsen, they discuss the book and the process of adapting it for the screen, showing clips from the upcoming film.

Winn’s inspirational combination of memoir, nature and travel writing tells the true story of how, just days after she learns that her husband Moth is terminally ill, their home is taken away and they lose their livelihood. With nothing left and little time, they make the desperate decision to walk the 630 miles of the South West Coast Path, in the hope that, in nature, they will find solace and a sense of acceptance.

Former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard will be remembered for being the first woman in the role in that country’s history, but even more so for her misogyny speech to parliament.

In this compelling discussion, Gillard, author of Not Now, Not Ever, which reflects on the lasting impact of her 2012 speech and misogyny today, will draw out the connections between the rise of populism, as exemplified by figures like Trump, and changing geopolitics, economics, media and attitudes to gender equality. She will examine how this shift has eroded trust in political institutions worldwide, creating fertile ground for division and extremism.

Gillard is joined by Eluded Morgan, the First Minister of Wales and the first woman to be appointed to the role, and Mary Trump, niece of President Trump, psychologist and author of Too Much and Never Enough. In discussing the intersection of misogyny, sexism and global power dynamics, they will reimagine leadership and suggest how to confront these challenges, rebuild faith in democratic systems and fight for equality.

What are men for? Most heavy things can be lifted by machines and most problems can be solved by computers and most puddles can be crossed without us gallantly draping our capes over them – so are we fellas of any use at all? Award-winning man Marcus Brigstocke thinks we might still serve some useful function. But what is it?

This new show will resolve the entire issue once and for all (in a non-patriarchal, open minded, progressive sort of way). DaVinci’s Vitruvian Man is the image of the ideal male form. Brigstocke’s Vitruvian Mango is the same, but sweeter, softer, seasonally available and, when ripe, delicately perfumed.

Age Guidance: 14 years old and above.

Journalist and novelist Omar El Akkad engages in a powerful reckoning with what it means to live in a West that betrayed its fundamental values of freedom and justice for all.

El Akkad has reported on stories including the various Wars on Terror and the Black Lives Matter protests. Watching the slaughter in Gaza, he has come to the conclusion that much of what the West promises is a lie, and that some groups of people will always be treated as less than fully human.

He talks to historian and broadcaster David Olusoga about his new book One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This – named for a phrase he used in a viral social media post – in which he chronicles his painful realisation and his grappling with what it means to carve out some sense of possibility during these devastating times.

For over a century, the Guardian’s ‘Country Diary’ has published the nation’s most celebrated writers of natural history as they capture the essence of the British countryside. Four nature lovers discuss Under the Changing Skies, which collates the finest contributions from recent years.

Patrick Barkham is natural history writer for the Guardian and author of The Butterfly Isles, Coastlines and Wild Green Wonders. Nicola Chester writes on belonging, protest, access and connection to nature. Her memoir is On Gallows Down: Place, Protest and Belonging. Paul Evans is a nature writer and senior lecturer in the Writing School at Manchester Metropolitan University. Broadcaster Martha Kearney is also a keen apiarist who filmed her beekeeping year for The Wonder of Bees on BBC Four.

Start your day with an hour of movement and breathwork. Our daily yoga classes are brought to you by a collective of highly skilled practitioners, all local to Hay-on-Wye. Each practitioner has their own style, but whichever class you attend, you can expect a mindful, student-focused practice with clear cueing and functional sequencing. Blending movement, mantra, meditation and breathwork, the classes support detoxification and regeneration – physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Whether you need grounding and recharging before a busy day at the Festival, an opportunity to stretch and move your body, or simply an hour to focus on your breathing, these yoga classes are open and accessible to all. Practitioners will adapt to different levels of experience, providing options for deepening or softening within poses so that each student takes what they need from the practice. Beginners and experienced students are most welcome. Yoga mats are provided.

Please contact Clare Fry at hello@larchwoodstudio.com with any questions relating to these classes. As capacity is limited, we recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment.

Featured in the BBC’s Digging for Britain, Snodhill Castle is the hidden gem of the Golden Valley. Explore the Norman ruins in their medieval parkland setting, including the high keep, the newly conserved Royal Free Chapel site and wall walk, and the C15th ‘panic room’ with its fortified latrine chutes. Hear the story of its discovery and preservation, from an expert guide.

Start the day at Hay Festival with headline guests chaired by editors from The Independent reviewing the news, discussing the headlines and issues of the day, and revealing what’s breaking and trending online. A fascinating look at what’s tickling the nation’s fancy – and driving it to splenetic fury. Bring your coffee! Among today’s guests is Ellie Chowns, Green Party MP for North Herefordshire and Simon Hart, Conservative politician and author of The Sunday Times Top 5 Bestseller Ungovernable. They talk to The Independent's Chief Book Critic, Martin Chilton.

Guides from the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park lead a walk through the beautiful surrounds of Hay-on-Wye. You’ll be joined by local experts who will give their insights into this treasured landscape

Hay-on-Wye is located within 520 square miles of beautiful landscape that makes up the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. The National Park is driving change to bring about a sustainable future, meeting our needs within planetary boundaries. Their Hay Festival series of walks take you into the town’s local environment while offering the opportunity to learn more about the Park’s work and its treasured landscape.

Come and hear the full, funny, feminist and entertaining story of one of our best-loved, and most versatile, actors. Alison Steadman recounts her inspiring and exhilarating journey from Liverpool to London drama school, and looks back over her many stellar roles, from Beverley’s overbearing party hosting and Mrs Bennet’s ailing ‘nerves’ to Pamelaaaa’s instantly-regretted vegetarian declaration.

Growing up in Liverpool as the entertainer of the family, impersonating neighbours to the delight of her friends and playing pranks on her unwitting mother, the young Alison Steadman had no idea of the roles and awards in store for her. But when she snuck off to London to audition for drama school in secret, she started the process of becoming one of today’s greatest character actors.

Travel through time back to Ancient Egypt with the author of the Adventures on Trains and The Twitchers series. Discover how a trip down the Nile inspired her newest fast-paced adventure, the first in her new Time Keys series. Explore the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of the Pharaohs can be found, unravel the ancient art of mummification, learn about heart scarabs, the Book of the Dead and the possible location of the lost tomb of Nefertiti. The perfect event for adventure enthusiasts, budding Egyptologists and time travellers!

Author/illustrator Huw Aaron performs a laugh-out-loud read-along of his new picture book Sleep Tight, Disgusting Blob – because even monsters need a bedtime story! You can also join in a wild and wacky monster draw-along with Huw. Warm, funny… and slimy, Sleep Tight, Disgusting Blob is a rhyming delight, ending with a kiss and sweet dreams for all.

Please bring your own sketchbook and pencils to this event.

Get your Hay day off to a brilliant start with our daily Ready, Steady, Music workshops! With different activities each day, these interactive, fun-filled sessions for mini musicians and their grown-ups will have you tapping sticks, roaring like dinosaurs, flying with unicorns, dancing with scarves, playing with parachutes and so much more. Come and meet our puppets, explore our range of instruments and listen to the beautiful sound of the cello.

Captivating young imaginations and creating lasting memories, these sessions offer a unique musical adventure. The perfect way to boost wellbeing, increase confidence, spark creativity and introduce children to the joy of music.

An opportunity to get crafting! Activities differ every day, including everything from print-making to junk modelling with recycled materials. Get messy and creative in these interactive sessions delivered by artists and discover that your imagination is the only limit.

Book for the session and you can drop in at any point during the 1.5 hour duration. Accompanying adults: please stay in attendance at all times, but you do not require a ticket.

Legend has it that Hay Castle was built in a day by a giantess called Matilda who hurled a stone across the Wye at the end of construction. Find out about this story and more with this entry ticket that also allows you to visit the castle as many times as you like for a year. Explore Matilda’s room, the castle’s costumes and cellars, and the Richard Booth Archive, and make your way right to the top for amazing views from the viewing platform.

This ticket allows you to visit the Castle at a time of your choice on the day selected, and also gives you entry into the 20th Century Welsh Artists exhibition on the second floor.

Come to the Family Garden for a pizza masterclass with Kitchen Garden Pizza. In this one-hour session your imagination and creativity will be fed along with your belly! You’ll get your hands messy with freshly grown and foraged ingredients, make and top your own dough and observe the pizzaioli at work at the wood-fired oven.

Dairy-free and gluten-free options available.

Join us for an exclusive guided tour led by one of our passionate volunteer guides during Hay Festival 2025. Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a captivating journey through the castle, revealing tales of medieval knights, royal intrigue and the castle’s remarkable restoration. As you explore the castle you’ll gain unique insights into the lives of those who once called this place home. The tour also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, providing the perfect backdrop for your visit.

Guided tours run daily at 11am and 2pm. Tour price includes entry into the Castle for a year including the current exhibition: 20th Century Welsh Artists.

Come to the Family Garden for a pizza masterclass with Kitchen Garden Pizza. In this one-hour session your imagination and creativity will be fed along with your belly! You’ll get your hands messy with freshly grown and foraged ingredients, make and top your own dough and observe the pizzaioli at work at the wood-fired oven.

Dairy-free and gluten-free options available.

Mary Trump grew up in the shadow of her father Freddy’s humiliation at the hands of his father Fred. Fred believed that among his children there could only be one winner, and rather than it being his namesake Freddy, that winner was now-president Donald Trump.

But Freddy never stopped trying to gain his father’s approval. Aged 42, he finally succumbed to Fred’s lethal contempt and died alone in an emergency room.

Mary Trump, niece of President Trump, reveals the inside story of the Trump family and its patriarch, and the effect it had on her own life, to broadcaster Samira Ahmed. This event offers a unique and personal insight into the Trump family and the cold, selfish cruelty that has come to define it. Trump is a psychologist and writer, author of Too Much and Never Enough.

Join the inimitable Ben Okri as he introduces his new work Madame Sosostris & the Festival for the Broken-Hearted, an homage to TS Eliot’s The Waste Land.

The novella tells the story of Viv, who throws a festival on the 20th anniversary of the day her first husband left her. There, the special guest is world-renowned clairvoyant and fortune-teller Madame Sosostris, not seen since the pages of The Waste Land.

Okri has won many prizes for his fiction, and is also an acclaimed essayist, playwright and poet. In 2019 his Astonishing the Gods was named as one of the BBC’s 100 Novels That Shaped Our World.

David Reid’s book Running the Risk is a guide to understanding life’s biggest risks – from shark attacks to nuclear disaster – and how we build a safer future. From the seemingly mundane act of crossing the road to the complex web of global connections, risk permeates our daily existence – but doesn’t have to blight it.

Hey is responsible for leading the World Risk Poll, Impact and establishing a Global Safety Evidence Centre for the Lloyds Register Foundation. The World Risk Poll and Resilience Index is the first and only global study of worry about, and harm from, risks to people’s safety. These unique data are collected and made freely available by the Foundation as a public good.

David Reid is Director of Global Advocacy at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, while Nancy Hey is the Foundation’s Director of Evidence & Insight. In conversation with Hay Festival Sustainability Director Andy Fryers, they consider the effects of risk and explore how we can redefine our understanding of resilience.

Strap in for the launch of Cressida Cowell’s How to Train your Dragon School: Doom of the Darkwing, her first novel in the Dragon world for 10 years. This new series follows Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third, and his dragons Toothless and Windwalker, who have joined the Viking and Dragon Training School on the Isle of Berk, to learn how to be great barbarians and dragon sidekicks. And before they know it, they are bottom in pretty much everything… These new standalone adventures are action-packed and perfect for developing readers.

Please bring your own sketchbook and pencils to this event.