An immersive journey into the world of Agatha Christie: The 2025 Agatha Christie Festival programme announced

The Agatha Christie Festival team are proud to unveil the full programme for the 2025 International Agatha Christie Festival, taking place from Saturday, September 13 to Sunday, September 21 across the English Riviera. This year’s festival promises an immersive journey into the world of the Queen of Crime set in her beloved birthplace, featuring an eclectic mix of literary discussions, theatrical performances, immersive experiences, and family-friendly events.

The festival kicks off with the ever popular Fringe Festival, which offers a host of unique experiences that celebrate Christie’s legacy in the very places that inspired her work.

For those eager to delve into Christie’s life story, ‘The Story of Agatha Christie's Extraordinary Life’ walking tour promises a rich narrative journey through key locations connected to the author. Visitors can then indulge in themed luxury at the ‘Afternoon Tea at the Imperial,’ set in the sun lounge where Christie once wrote.

Festivalgoers can enjoy a range of evocative experiences that bring Agatha Christie’s world to life. Highlights include Tea and Cake at Agatha’s Church, a charming tribute held in All Saints’ Church where Agatha Christie was baptised, and the Underground Cinema at Kents Cavern, where visitors can enjoy a classic mystery film in a prehistoric setting. For those seeking a playful twist on the genre, the Murder Mystery at Paignton Zoo promises a wild and entertaining ‘whodunnit’ set among exotic animals.

In Paignton Library, ‘The Bodies in the Library’ offers a unique after-hours experience where visitors can solve a mystery in an atmospheric setting. A more reflective note is struck at All Saints’ Church in Torquay, which will host a commemorative service in the church where Agatha Christie was baptised.

Finally, Tim Benzie presents his one-man show ‘It’s a Mystery!’ at Pengelly Hall in Torquay Museum, offering a humorous and heartfelt exploration of what makes murder mysteries so enduringly captivating.

Matt Newbury, Programme Director of The Agatha Christie Festival, commented:"Agatha Christie’s enduring appeal lies not just in her brilliant plots, but in the way her stories capture the imagination of people of all ages. We’ve worked hard to curate a programme that reflects that same spirit - one that’s rich in creativity, surprises, and celebration.

“From literary debates and live podcast recordings to sea swims and garden parties, there’s truly something for everyone. We can’t wait to welcome fans - old and new - to the English Riviera this September for what promises to be an unforgettable nine days of mystery and magic."

From 18th September, the festival transitions into its Literary Festival programme, spotlighting prominent authors, Christie scholars, and cultural figures. In one of the most anticipated sessions, bestselling authors Lucy Foley and Sophie Hannah join David Brawn of Harper Collins to discuss their work continuing the stories of Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot.

In another major highlight, acclaimed screenwriter Chris Chibnall shares insights from his debut crime novel, Death at the White Hart, and reflects on adapting Christie’s stories for the screen in ‘A Conversation with Chris Chibnall’. While Kemper Donovan’s live recording of his hit podcast ‘All About Agatha’ has now sold out, literary fans won’t want to miss another standout panel featuring Tom Hindle, Alex Michaelides and C.B. Everett, who will delve into the vital role of setting in crafting compelling crime fiction.

Authors Janice Hallett, Vaseem Khan, and broadcaster Steph McGovern will also gather to explore how modern writers are reinventing Golden Age detective fiction in ‘The Never-Ending Golden Age.’

Another highlight for this year is ‘The Affair at the Victory Ball’, a glamorous Saturday night celebration featuring a 17-piece big band and singer. Expect vintage flair, dancing, and decadent fun – all inspired by Agatha Christie’s short story of the same name.

Christie’s flirtation with the supernatural will be examined by Tony Medawar in his talk, ‘Agatha Christie and the Occult,’ which reveals little-known elements of the author’s oeuvre. The literary strand concludes with Icelandic crime fiction star Ragnar Jónasson, who discusses his new novel, 'Death of a Crime Writer' alongside Kelly Mullen, followed by an interactive murder mystery game. The evening includes fish and chips, a glass of prosecco, and a treacherous twist that promises to end the festival on a high.

Carolyn Custerson, CEO of the English Riviera BID Company, said:"The Agatha Christie Festival is a shining example of how the English Riviera’s rich cultural heritage can be brought to life in imaginative and meaningful ways. As one of the world’s most beloved authors, Agatha Christie continues to draw visitors from across the globe to her birthplace here in Torbay.

“This year’s programme is our most ambitious yet, showcasing not only her extraordinary legacy but also the vibrant creative spirit of our region. We are proud to support this internationally significant event, which plays a vital role in boosting our visitor economy and promoting the English Riviera as a year-round cultural destination."

The festival also remains committed to nurturing the next generation of writers with its annual Agatha Christie Festival Young People’s Mystery Short Story Writing Competition. Open to children and teenagers aged 8 to 18 across Devon and Torbay, the contest encourages creative storytelling rooted in the mystery genre. Winners will be celebrated during a special awards ceremony at the festival.

Additionally, there will be a free Christie for Kids Day in Paignton Library on Saturday 13th September, where best-selling children’s authors Robin Stevens (Murder Most Unladylike) and Abie Longstaff (Before the Fairytale) will be delivering talks and workshops during the day. Children can also join a fun treasure hunt around the library with prizes for everyone who completes it.

If you're planning a trip to The Agatha Christie Festival, the English Riviera offers accommodation for every type of visitor.

For bookings and the complete programme, please visit the official festival website at https://www.englishriviera.co.uk/whats-on/the-agatha-christie-festival-p1257113