The growing line-up for the Chester Festival of Ideas will include Dame Jenny Harries, who is set to reflect on a life in public service.

On July 4, professor Dame Jenny Harries DBE DL, former deputy chief medical officer for England and chancellor of the University of Chester, will be in conversation with Dr Kirstie Simpson, offering candid insights into resilience across a wide career.

Dame Jenny joins various speakers, including some of the UK's leading broadcasters, at the award-winning annual festival.

Created by the University of Chester in collaboration with partners, the festival offers a line-up of free and accessible public events on a wide range of themes across the city. 

The event includes talks, exhibitions, performances, and hands-on workshops - taking place from 2 - 5 July.

Among the names taking to the festival stage in 2026 are journalist, broadcaster, author and campaigner, Mariella Frostrup, and public historian, author, and broadcaster Greg Jenner - best known for his work on the award-winning BBC TV series, Horrible Histories.  

Meanwhile, a range of research and expertise will be presented by University of Chester staff including Chantal Bradburn who will Follow Chester's Buildings Through Time and Dr James Holt, Associate Professor of Religious Education, who will discuss On Holy Ground: Experiencing Life in Relationships.  

Katherine Wilson, director of Chester Festival of Ideas, said: "We're delighted to announce the latest event for this year's festival with Dame Jenny Harries as part of another varied programme aiming to entertain, inform and inspire. 

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"Everyone is warmly invited to be part of the festival, whether hosting, supporting or attending events and activities.

"If you have an idea for an event, there's just under a month to put it forward - so still time, but please make sure you don't miss out. " 

A full programme for the festival and ticket booking for events will open in May 2026. 

For further information on the festival, and to join the mailing list for updates, please visit here.

You can submit event ideas here.