There is less than three weeks to go until the launch of this year's Chester Festival of Ideas.

Organised by the University of Chester, the festival consists of various free events across the city and will run from 3 - 6 July.

Aiming to entertain and inspire, the events for all ages and interests span a range of themes, such as arts and literature, Chester, history, the natural world, politics and more.

The festival's venues across the city include Chester Town Hall- as the festival's hub, Storyhouse, the Grosvenor Museum, Chester Cathedral, Chester Market and Chester Picturehouse.

Guests for this year include seven-time Paralympian champion, Hannah Cockroft OBE, former chief news correspondent for the BBC, Kate Adie CBE, full-time GP and author, Dr Amir Khan and many others. 

Attendees can also find out more about research led by the University.

This includes local insights on subjects from the science of endurance sports, to Jane Austen and the birth of detective fiction - alongside the history of Chester and beyond. 

The University will also host a Family Fun Day at Exton Park on Saturday 5 July. 

There will be workshops with Chester Zoo and the chance to step behind the scenes at the Grosvenor Museum.

Katherine Wilson, director of Chester Festival of Ideas, said: "We hope people really enjoy this opportunity to join together, hear and share learning and ideas.

"It's open to all, with a diverse, inclusive and accessible near-to 100 free events and activities to discover.

"There will be speakers, discussion panels, theatre, pop-up exhibitions, interactive events, music, readings, stories, guided walks and much more, on subjects from art and medicine to food and science.

"Time is still left to book places but the festival's in sight so don't miss your chance to be part of a captivating, fun and insightful four days celebrating knowledge, inspiration and the creativity on our doorstep and beyond.

"We look forward to welcoming everyone and shining a light on our wonderful city."

To find out more about the festival and book free places, please visit here.

While all events are free to attend and walk-ins are welcome, attendees are encouraged to book in advance (other than for drop-in activities) to secure their spot.