"Reading is good for you, it's a fact!" - Chester Literature Festival returns this Spring
Chester Literature Festival returns this spring, with its focus on reading as a "vital tool for wellbeing".
Running from 21 May – 15 June 2025, the festival invites audiences to explore the power and joy of reading.
Produced by Storyhouse, it will feature headline appearances from much-loved voices - including Ruth Jones, Daisy Buchanan, and Reverend Richard Coles.
A growing body of UK research highlights the real-world benefits of reading.
Just six minutes of reading can reduce stress by up to 68%, with 74% of adults reporting a positive impact on their mental health from regular reading.
In a time when more people are seeking ways to unwind, Chester Literature Festival seeks to promote how stories can support and sustain us.
At the heart of the festival is Storyhouse Library — a welcoming, free-to-access space open from 8am to 11pm every day, designed to be used by everyone.
Storyhouse Library offers a calm and creative environment to browse, discuss and read books.
The Storyhouse Library team will even make personalised recommendations based on books you've enjoyed before, and pick them out for you to collect.
Groups like the supportive Healing Pages Book Club and the relaxed Not A Reading Group, where there's no required reading, offer welcoming spaces for everyone to connect through stories.
Suzie Henderson, Storyhouse Creative Director, says: "Bringing Chester Literature Festival to spring feels like the perfect renewal - a fresh season for stories to flourish.
"This festival has always been about more than books; it's about the power of words to support wellbeing, spark joy and bring people together.
"At a time when so many are looking for ways to feel better and connect, we're proud to offer a programme that does just that."
Linda Tyson, Library Team Leader at Storyhouse, says: "The Chester Literature Festival is a great reminder of the importance and relevance of stories and reading in our lives and we are looking forward to hosting some wonderful writers this year.
"The library will have books by all the authors appearing at the festival.
"If you're not a member, no problem, it's free to join either in person or online.
"Reading is good for you, it's a fact!"
The full lineup of events for Chester Literature Festival 2025 is on sale now, with a dynamic programme of talks, workshops, performances and community activities.
Tickets can be booked here.
Chester Literature Festival is sponsored by Aaron & Partners.
Helen Johnson, partner and head of marketing at Aaron and Partners, said: "Aaron & Partners Solicitors are delighted to be sponsoring the Chester Literature Festival at its new home in the Spring programme.
"The ability to really understand language and how to use words effectively are essential skills for lawyers and it is our privilege to support Storyhouse in bringing some of the UK's best literary talent to Chester for this annual celebration of the written word."
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