The Borders Book Festival has unveiled a packed programme for its 2024 edition, with a host of authors and figures from the world of entertainment getting ready to descend on Melrose’s Harmony Garden in the Scottish Borders. Taking place from Thursday 13–Sunday 16 June, tickets for the festival are available now.

Highlights of the four-day event include a conversation between fellow comedians Janey Godley and Jo Caulfield about their respective memoirs; political pundit Robert Peston in conversation with former MP Alan Johnson to discuss moving from politics into fiction writing; bestselling author David Nicholls, of One Day fame, will discuss his latest novel, You Are Here; crime-writing royalty Val McDermid, Chris Brookmyre and Mark Billingham will hit the Borders for bookish chat and a performance from their band, The Fun Lovin Crime Writers; and Rory Bremner will be joined on stage by fellow legendary comedian Fred MacAulay to chat comedy writing. 

Festival Director, Alistair Moffat, said: ‘It’s time to start making plans for those long, light, balmy days at the height of the Scottish summer, and what better event to pop in the diary than our annual celebration in our very own Borders slice of heaven, Melrose’s Harmony Garden. 

‘This year sees our programme again offer something for every taste: whether that’s literary fiction, comedy, sport, politics, health, current affairs, history or travel – all of life is here. 

‘And we sincerely hope that you will all be here, too, as we revel in the joy of gathering in high summer to talk about the things we love with the people we love, before whiling away a gentle afternoon or evening surrounded by (and partaking in) delicious food and drink, enjoying the gorgeous scenery, and absorbing the chitter-chatter of friends and other festival goers alike.  All the good things in life.’

The Borders Book Festival will take place from Thursday 13–Sunday 16 June; find the full programme at the festival’s official site; main picture: Lloyd Smith.