Fancy flitting over to the Channel islands for a long weekend? The Guernsey Literary Festival, which takes place from 23rd April until 5th May 2024, offers the perfect excuse for a retreat. There’ll be more than creative talks, workshops, music, food, family story sessions and more.

The line-up includes an array of expert speakers and writers, including best-selling novelists Louis de Bernières and John Boyne, celebrated chef Michel Roux and journalist Bryony Gordon, media personalities Louise Minchin and Sarah Beeny, plus sports stars and commentators Mike Brearley and Pat Nevin.

Each will talk about their recent books during the Festival, among a host of writers and speakers, mostly from the UK and Channel Islands, taking part in the 2024 Festival, which will be based at a number of local venues including St James, Les Cotils, the Guille Allès Library, The Old Government House Hotel and St Pierre Park Hotel.

On 5th May, Anna Mazzola will teach: Bringing the Past to Life – How to Write Historical Fiction and Paul Muldoon leads the workshop: How To Let the Poem Write Itself.

There will also be a Winnie the Pooh Tea Party.

Festival Director Claire Allen says “This year’s programme includes some of the most inspirational and creative thinkers from the worlds of literature, poetry, business, politics, stage and screen, food and drink, sport and history, amongst many others.”

Event tickets are bookable at www.guernseyliteraryfestival.com where you can also find the growing diary of events.