Queen Camilla's Reading Room Festival Announces Celebrity Line-Up for Fifth Anniversary
Queen Camilla's Reading Room festival is set to host a glittering array of literary and media stars, including broadcaster Clare Balding, former politician Lord Jeffrey Archer, and bestselling author Harlan Coben. The event, taking place at Chatsworth in Derbyshire, marks the fifth anniversary of the Queen's global literary charity, which originated as an Instagram book club during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Star-Studded Speakers and Engaging Discussions
Throughout the festival, Celebrity Traitors star Clare Balding will delve into the connection between physical locations and narrative creation, a recurring theme in her novels. Former MP and prolific author Jeffrey Archer, one of the world's bestselling writers, will share insights on crafting successful novels. American author Harlan Coben, renowned for hit Netflix adaptations like Fool Me Once, will discuss the process of transforming literary works into television programmes.
The schedule also features artist and author Philippa Perry, who is married to artist Sir Grayson Perry, exploring the intriguing question of whether a therapist can catch a killer. Lee Child, famous for his Jack Reacher novels adapted for TV, will be joined by special guests to talk about rehabilitation through writing and reading.
Expansive Literary Programme and Community Initiatives
Additional speakers at the Queen's Reading Room festival include a diverse group of acclaimed authors:
- Ann Cleeves
- Elif Shafak
- Meg Mason
- Daisy Fancourt
- Cecelia Ahern
- Kate Atkinson
- Louise Penny
- Jessie Burton
- Louise Kennedy
- Reeta Chakrabarti
- Jane Harper
- Jennifer Saint
- Louisa Young
- Lucy Foley
- Nussaibah Younis
The festival programme extends beyond talks to include The Writers' Room, a drop-in hub for aspiring writers, and The Poetry Room, a dedicated space celebrating poetry. A new exhibition at Chatsworth House will showcase notable literary works from its archive and historical collection, adding a cultural dimension to the event.
Commitment to Accessibility and Social Impact
Vicki Perrin, chief executive of The Queen's Reading Room, emphasised the charity's mission to advance education by fostering appreciation of literature among adults and children. She stated, "As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of The Queen's Reading Room, it is a joy to announce the return of our festival to Chatsworth. Bringing so many remarkable authors, thinkers and storytellers to one place is a true privilege."
Perrin highlighted the festival's commitment to inclusivity, noting the continuation of its partnership with local charity The Elm Foundation, which supports victims of domestic violence. The event will utilise Chatsworth's Universal Credit Scheme, offering reduced-rate tickets to low-income guests to ensure broad accessibility.
"From intimate conversations with some of today's most compelling voices to the return of The Writers' Room and the launch of our new Poetry Canopy, this year's festival offers something for every kind of reader," Perrin added. "Whether you come seeking inspiration, discovery or simply the joy of being surrounded by books and ideas, we cannot wait to welcome you to Chatsworth in September."
The Queen's Reading Room festival is scheduled from 19th to 20th September, with tickets available from 15th April. This milestone event not only celebrates literary excellence but also reinforces the charity's dedication to making reading accessible and impactful for all communities.
